The packraft advanced training course is designed for occasional or beginner kayakers who wish to improve their technical skills and ease in whitewater.
Longer training sessions over 2 or 3 days are also offered.
During this course, participants will explore the fundamental aspects of packraft navigation, including:
– Reading the river to identify and analyze rapids.
– Understanding currents and eddies.
– Learning essential techniques for navigating effectively and safely on the river, such as crossing currents (ferry), efficient river starts (rescue), and stopping techniques.
– Safety techniques specific to packrafting, such as getting back into your boat, assisting another paddler, avoiding entrapments, swimming with your gear, etc.
Learn the basics before going solo
Perfect for starting packrafting on whitewater
Short training format
A descent accompanied by a certified guide and expert in kayaking and packrafting
New and high-quality equipment for your comfort
What is Level 2 / Dynamic ?
Level 2 / Dynamic: I venture off the beaten track
Level 2: I am the "Intermediate!"
I know how to go straight, turn, stop, and generally control my kayak or packraft.
I have already navigated on a class 2 river (mild current, small waves).
The minimum age for this adventure is 16 years old. Please note that, regardless of age, participants must be able to swim and have the required physical and/or technical level.
If you have any doubts, feel free to give us a call
4 to 8 people
This adventure is often led by Tristan or Antoine.
You can modify or cancel your activity up to 72 hours before it starts. To do so, please send us an email at info@blue-secret.com or contact us by phone, specifying your name, the date, and the activity in question. In case of cancellation, we will refund you with a deduction of 5 euros per person. However, if the deadline is not respected, the full amount of the service will be charged.
We are, of course, available for any questions.
If, for any reason (lack of participants, bad weather, or unsuitable water levels), Blue Secret is forced to cancel the adventure, you have three options:
Please note that changing the participant’s identity can be done at any time and at no extra cost, provided that the new participant also meets all the physical and technical requirements of the adventure.
*Gift vouchers are not nominative. This means that the person of your choice can use them, but only if they also meet all the physical and technical requirements of the adventure.
To learn more about whitewater stadium or the equipment used, feel free to visit their websites
It depends on the location of the course, feel free to contact us.
Here are some pictures from our packraft course
Before heading out on my solo expedition, I took the packrafting training course led by Antoine. The experience was incredibly enriching. Antoine, with his expertise, not only taught me the essential technical skills but also gave me the confidence I needed to embark on my own. This course is a must for anyone looking to explore waterways safely.
Participating in the packraft course with Antoine was a revelation for me. Learning navigation and safety techniques in such a professional and reassuring environment completely transformed the way I view my future packrafting adventures. Antoine is an exceptional guide, and his teaching style and safety approach made me feel ready to tackle rivers on my own. I highly recommend this course to all adventure enthusiasts!
The packraft training course was exactly what I needed before planning my solo trips. Antoine's guidance, professionalism, and his expert advice on safety were crucial. I learned essential techniques that allowed me to feel safe and self-sufficient on the water. This course is perfect for anyone looking to master packrafting before embarking on more ambitious adventures.
The meeting point for this excursion will be specified when you register and will also be our final arrival point.
The course may take place either on the Fier or the Chéran in Annecy and its surroundings, or on an whitewater stadium.
We will navigate on the river, performing several exercises to learn the basic techniques.
We will spend time in the water to learn the proper techniques for self-rescue and assisting someone in difficulty.
Here are the main topics covered:
Topics covered during the training:
– Personal equipment
– Technical and group equipment
– Whitewater communication
– Whitewater swimming techniques
– Rescue techniques: safety rope, tethered swimmer, etc.
– Navigation techniques: ferry, catch, stop, surfing
– Rapid analysis and risk assessment
Yes, it is of course possible to privatize an adventure. The price will be at least equivalent to the participation of 6 people. For a customized adventure, feel free to call our team; they will be happy to assist you.
Most of our guides speak English. Some also speak Spanish. All English-speaking individuals or those who speak English well enough to understand safety instructions are welcome on our adventures.
We will spend time in the water to learn the proper techniques for self-rescue and assisting someone in difficulty.
Here are the main topics covered:
Topics covered during the training:
The minimum age for this adventure is 16. Please note that regardless of age, participants must know how to swim and have the required physical and/or technical level.
We have single and double packrafts available. However, the choice of packraft type depends on the adventure and the available stock. For specific requests, feel free to contact us.
Level 1 / Introduction: Discovering a New Activity
No specific training or physical condition is required for this level, as long as you are in good health. Do you want to try packrafting and learn the basics of this new activity in a natural and relaxing environment, without needing to put in much physical effort?
Level 2 / Dynamic: Venturing Off the Beaten Path
You are active and generally enjoy sports. You are capable of sustained physical effort for up to 5-6 hours per day. You want to explore unique locations, away from tourist areas and well-trodden paths, all while being immersed in nature.
Level 3 / Committed: Embarking on an Extraordinary Expedition!
Reserved for fit individuals who regularly practice endurance sports (at least twice a week). You can sustain physical effort for up to 7-8 hours per day. While you are experienced in outdoor sports, you may not necessarily be autonomous or specialized. Sleeping in bivouacs in remote and exceptional locations excites you (help with setting up camp will be required). You seek nature and adventure to recharge in unique, hard-to-reach places. Weather conditions may be unpredictable, but that doesn't scare you. You want to experience an intense adventure, one that may challenge your limits and push you out of your comfort zone.
Level 4 / Expert: Exploring Uncharted Lands!
Reserved for experienced athletes who train intensely in endurance sports (more than three times a week). You may need to carry up to 20 kg, and physical activity can last up to 12 hours per day. This level is for seasoned outdoor adventurers with strong motivation and mental resilience. You will progress through remote environments that can be highly demanding if extreme weather conditions arise. The geographic isolation means that rescue options are limited. These are ambitious expeditions where achieving the goal and ensuring the group's safety depend on everyone’s commitment.A strong team spirit is essential!
Level 1: I am "The Beginner!"
I have never held a paddle before.
Level 2: I am "The Intermediate!"
I can paddle straight, turn, stop, and generally control my kayak or packraft. I have already paddled on a Class 2 river (mild current, small waves).
Level 3: I am "The Advanced Paddler!"
I navigate confidently on Class 2/3 rivers. I fully control my boat in this river class. I can assist in setting up group safety for a technical section.
Level 4: I am "The Expert!"
I navigate on Class 3/4 rivers. I can roll my boat, read a river, and set up safety for a technical section
Being able to swim is an absolutely mandatory prerequisite.
Yes, the shoes will go in the water. It is important to note that for safety reasons, shoes are mandatory during all our adventures.
A pair of sports shoes with soles is required.
The group size varies depending on the adventure. However, in general, groups range from 4 to 8 people. For safety reasons, some adventures are limited to 6 people. You will find a "group size" section on each adventure page. Feel free to check it out.
Safety is our top priority! Even if the weather isn't ideal (rain, wind, clouds, etc.), the adventure will continue as long as the participants' safety is not at risk. If the weather conditions are unfavorable along the route, the guide may set up an alternative itinerary to ensure the group's safety.
