Who We Are
Whatever and wherever you paddle, ORCKA is the association for recreational paddlers in the province of Ontario!
The Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association was formed in 1975 to promote
accessibility of paddling experiences for everyone ... to promote the development of safe, competent, and knowledgeable
recreational paddlers; igniting the passion for a journey of paddling experiences and the preservation of the
paddling environment. Today, ORCKA continues to grow in a dynamic manner to support and develop
recreational canoeing and kayaking in Ontario!
What ORCKA Does Best
Since 1975, ORCKA has developed levels of instruction for canoeists and kayakers, for moving water paddlers as
well as back country and urban tripping enthusiasts. ORCKA provides ongoing support for instructional
programs for canoeing and kayaking from beginner to expert. ORCKA paddling programs are provincially
recognized and nationally certified. ORCKA continues to develop and produce leading-edge instructional
material to help Instructors deliver paddling programs, and continues to provide information to the Ontario
public on safe canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and voyageur
canoeing practices.
Pursue Your Dreams - Go Canoeing or Kayaking
The ORCKA paddling programs are available through more than 175 ORCKA Organizational Members
who provide safe, interesting and enjoyable on-water paddling instruction throughout Ontario. To find your
perfect paddling instruction program see ORCKA's skills courses.
As a public service, ORCKA's Organizational Members deliver Safe Canoeing, Safe Kayaking and Safe Canoe
Tripping programs to Ontario Provincial Park campers, municipal groups and others across Ontario.
Tomorrow's Instructor
Every year ORCKA conducts canoeing and kayaking instructor courses throughout Ontario. These ORCKA
paddling instructor courses train and certify some of the best paddling instructors in North America!
At the Heart of ORCKA
ORCKA's strong network of volunteers ensures local representation and assistance to numerous clubs,
organizations and outfitters throughout the province of Ontario. ORCKA recruits members, both individual
and organizational, who promote safe paddling practices wherever and whenever they paddle.
For Ontario's most respected canoeing and kayaking courses, Go ORCKA!