Water Classification Maps
Map Index
ACSKG certified guides can request the Association to create a classification map for any coastal water.
Click a map to view larger:
Coastal Water Classifications (CWC)
A three-tiered categorization of coastal waters that considers topography, bathymetry, fetch, tidal action, marine traffic and local anomalies affecting sea kayak risk management. Boundaries are identified on ACSKG Water Classification Maps.
Guide to client ratios are determined by water classification and the type of kayaks used; single kayaks, double kayaks or a mixed fleet consisting of both single and double kayaks.
Class I Protected waters
Guide requirements: An ACSKG Certified Full Guide with smaller groups, or; an ACSKG Certified Full Guide and an Assistant Guide with larger groups.
Class II Open coastal waters
Guide requirements: An ACSKG Certified Full Guide and an Assistant Guide.
Class III High energy waters with minimal refuge
Guide requirements: An ACSKG Certified Class III Full Guide and an Assistant Guide.
Guide to Client Ratios
Association of Canadian Sea Kayak Guides |
Water
Classification |
Single
kayaks |
Mixed
fleets |
Double
kayaks |
| Class I |
1:4
2:5 to 8 |
1:5
2:6 to 10 |
1:6
2:7 to 10 |
| Class II |
2:6 |
2:8 |
2:10 |
| Class III |
2:4 |
2:6 |
2:8 |
Ratio Details · Synopsis of Standards
If discrepancies exist between ACSKG printed material and material published on the ACSKG website, the online content will be considered valid. The most up-to-date content is published at: ACSKG.ca