Sea Kayak Surf Retreat

Sea kayak Instructors: James Manke, Co-instructor to be announced
Retreat Venue: Manke at The Wreckage, Ucluelet, BC, Canada

Retreat Style & Philosophy

Over the years, I’ve watched clients arrive at my shorter two-day surf workshops eager to sharpen their kayak surfing skills and push their limits. But what they remembered most wasn’t just the skills. It was the deep connection to the water, the technical insights, and the personal stories shared along the way.

This isn’t just a kayak surfing workshop. It’s a full four-day sea kayak surf immersion. Together, we blend technique development, shred hard in surf sessions, build community, eat great food, and take those much-needed hammock breaks after a hard days work. It’s everything I personally love about life on the water, wrapped into one unforgettable retreat.

The pace is intentional with mornings spent surfing, afternoons to relax and recharge, and evenings filled with presentations, surf reviews, in-depth discussions, stories, and reflection.

What Makes This Different From a Workshop

Refining Rough Water Skills on Flat Water - We start by breaking down rough water and kayak surfing techniques in a calm environment, ensuring your foundation is solid before heading into the surf zone.

Skill Through Immersion - One full day of technical refinement followed by two days of guided surf immersion on land and in the water in a small group setting focused on patience, precision, and progression.

Real Community - Evenings around the fire, shared stories from the sea, games, and laughter. The kind of connection that makes this more than just a paddling event.

The Place Itself - A reimagined version of the much-loved Manke at The Wreckage, a wild coastal haven where waves, rainforest, and wind shape every story.

Who This Retreat Is For

This retreat is designed for intermediate to advanced paddlers who want to take their sea kayak surfing to the next level.
If a one or two-day workshop has ever left you wanting more, this is for you.

Logistics & The Promise

A small group of up to eight participants ensures personal instruction and a close community feel.
All chef-prepared meals and on-site amenities are included.
Choose between camping under the stars or sleeping in the rustic loft. Either way, the experience is immersive, focused, and unforgettable.

Highlights Include

➡️ Refining rough water skills on flat water before entering the surf zone
➡️ Surf zone awareness, etiquette, and ocean reading
➡️ Launching and landing through surf
➡️ Wave selection and timing
➡️ Kayak control, edging, and flow
➡️ Mindset and performance connection

Food & Beverages

All meals, coffee, and water are included in your registration.
Alcoholic beverages are not provided, but there is a liquor store just a few doors down from The Wreckage. Please let us know in advance about any dietary needs or allergies so we can plan accordingly.

On-Site Accommodations

Two beds are available in the loft above the Manke Kayak Garage, a simple open-concept space offered at a reduced rate compared to Ucluelet accommodations.
These are shared rustic spaces and not private rooms.
Discounted camping spots are also available on-site for small tents or camper vans.

Important:
If you plan to book your own accommodations off-site, please do so early. Options in and around Ucluelet, including campsites, fill up quickly during the summer months.

Full Itinerary for the retreat

Friday 

Saturday 

Sunday

Monday