Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear on the river?
Come to the 9am Paddler’s meeting wearing a bathing suit, active wear, and shoes that won’t come off when you’re swimming. Your instructor is the expert and will give you tips before you head out on the water. The Riverside shop has any essentials you might need.
Can I stay over on the last night of my course?
If you are camping, no problem! There is a charge of $25/person. Please arrange this with the office. For indoor accommodation, we have people checking in for the upcoming course so rooms need to be vacated. Check with the office to see if there is space!
Should I tip my instructor?
Our MKC team works hard. Tipping is greatly appreciated by the instructors and the support staff! We do not have means to withdraw cash for you. This can be done in town.
Is there internet access anywhere?
As a remote location with limited access we have no WiFi available to students and encourage students to embrace this “off the grid” time. The only internet access customers will have is on your own smart phones. Bell has a good signal at MKC and Rogers has access in spots. The nearby town of Barry’s Bay also has some hot spots such as Tim Hortons.
Can I bring my own kayak or canoe equipment?
Of course! We would love for you to develop your kayaking and canoeing skills in your own boat, wearing your own lifejacket and helmet. There are a few safety concerns though. Boats must be equipped with adequate flotation and be safe enough for whitewater. That is, tandem canoes need well-fastened air bags/ flotation bags in both the bow and the stern, the centre is also recommended. Kayaks require flotation on both sides of the stern. Lifejackets and helmets will be reviewed for the safety prior to use. If any of your personal equipment does not meet our safety standards, you will be required to rent MKC’s gear at a daily rate.
What dietary restrictions can you accommodate?
MKC is famous for our delicious home-cooked meals. Our small and passionate team does what we can to accommodate Gluten Free and vegetarian diets. For folks with strict diets beyond this, we recommend bringing your own meals. Our meals are all served buffet-style, so there is room for you to choose what you wish to eat.
Can I bring my trailer or camper van to camp in?
Our campsites are all vehicle accessible. Feel free to bring your trailer or camper van instead of your tent to make your stay at MKC the comfiest possible! Or ability to accommodate large units requiring particularly flat grade is limited. We do not have hook ups for electrical or septic. Each camp spot has a picnic table and is near a communal restroom.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets cannot be left unattended at MKC for their own health and safety as well as for the people around it. MKC does not have any pet-sitting services. We would love to have your dog visit us, so long as it is always supervised and on a leash.
How many people will be in my class?
We divide course participants into courses based on their goals, experience and skills. We work with Paddle Canada’s recommended maximum instructor to student ratios, which are 1:6 for whitewater kayaking and solo canoeing and 1:8 for tandem canoeing.
