2020 - Madawaska Kanu Centre

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We are honoured and hyped to be featured this month’s international paddling mag; Kayak Session Magazine.

“When Hermann and Christa Kerckhoff decided to build a kayak school on the banks of the Madawaska River and model it after the European ski schools of their youth, they had no idea the legacy they would leave behind. Three generations later, the Kerckhoffs and MKC are still spreading the joy of whitewater.”

Link to buy single issue or subscription.

Stefi Van Wijk sits down with Level Six for a liquid lunch

News

|February 1, 2023

Our very own Stefi Van Wijk on growing up in a paddling family, her journey to becoming MKC director and the dynamics of running a paddling school. An important message to take away from this: Paddling is for everyone. It transcends age, location, background and skill level. Thanks Level Six for such a fun podcast!

Reviews

					A great time.  I highly recommend MKC This was my 3rd, five day white water kayaking trip with MKC.  It was another fabulous week. 

I always choose the all inclusive option.  I camp, but there are a number of indoor options for those who prefer that.  I select the full meal plan, as I really don't want to do my own cooking before I paddle, or after a long day on the water. Don't let the young cooks worry you. (They're students working the summer months. Some of them are in culinary arts training.)  The meals are better that a lot of restaurants.  There's always vegetarian options at every meal.  I like this because, and I like variety, and sometimes I want a change.

It doesn't matter what your skill level is, you'll have fun and will learn.  On this last trip, there was a couple in their 80s, who wanted a new adventure to try out.  How great is that.  The instructors/guides always give positive feedback.  You'll never hear you did anything wrong.  (Typically, you all ready figured that out.)  The guide will say something like: "Try this technique, and see how you like it."  The guide will then demonstrate the technique a couple of times, and watch you trying it, while shouting encouragement to you.  Plus, the rest of the people in your group will be cheering you on.  When someone in the group does their first practice roll, or any combat roll, the cheers are thunderous.  The grin on the person who just did the roll, says it all.  

This year I was in seniors week. (I'm 73.)  Virtually everyone had their own equipment.  No worries if you need gear.  MKC has excellent equipment, and will outfit you with everything you need, appropriate to your experience level. If you want to try a  performance boat, they'll let you try one.

All in all, it's a great experience.  I plan to return next year for my 4th time.

Give it a try!

Alan - Registered Maine Guide in Sea Kayaking
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Sky K
9/08/2024
					Awesome Awesome fun - great guides. Ralph made us all share his love for white water! Highly recommended for anyone- and do jump off the bridge 😉
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Camper434674
7/30/2024
					Perfect Family Adventure I cannot say enough good things about MKC - their facilities, their staff, the river, all of it. My family actually joined the five day learn to kayak program (which was not an option in the TripAdvisor drop down). The river has just the right amount of challenge to be PERFECT for learning. There are easy lines for absolute beginners, and enough challenge that a competitive slalom race was being held for top competitors on an adjacent section of the river during our stay. We will be back in the future for the same program.
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Scott S
7/28/2024