Kajakkguiden logoKAJAKKGUIDEN
The story behind

About Kajakkguiden

Professional paddle instruction with passion, safety and respect for the sea.

Øystein Pilskog — founder and head instructor at Kajakkguiden
Who am I

From paddle enthusiast to professional instructor

I've been paddling kayak since 2008 and started Kajakkguiden in 2017. With experience from small and large trips as organizer and trip leader, kayak paddling has developed into a true passion. I want to share this wonderful sport, and the unique nature experience that kayaking provides, with as many people as possible in a safe and enjoyable way.

I'm based on Valderøya in Giske municipality, with courses and trips throughout the Ålesund/Giske/Skodje area. My qualifications include NPF Sea Kayak Instructor, British Canoeing Sea Kayak Leader (tidal), Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning, ISKGA Incident Management, and Wilderness First Responder.

The philosophy is simple: small groups, high safety and genuine passion for paddling. All courses follow the Norwegian Paddling Federation's course program, and with a maximum of 8 participants per course, everyone receives proper guidance.

Qualifications

Certifications and training

Your safety is my priority. That's why I stay professionally up to date with internationally recognized certifications.

NPF Sea Kayak Instructor

Norwegian Paddling Federation

The highest instructor level in the Norwegian Paddling Federation for sea kayaking. Approved to lead trips and hold courses.

Sea Kayak Leader (tidal)

British Canoeing

Leading groups in challenging tidal waters. Includes Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning and Coastal Sea Kayak Award.

ISKGA Incident Management

ISKGA

Incident management and stress handling from the International Sea Kayak Guide Association.

Wilderness First Responder

Emergency Medicine

80-hour course in wilderness emergency medicine, with a focus on sea kayaking. Handling emergencies far from hospitals.

Philosophy

What I believe in

Quality, safety and passion for paddling — these are the pillars of everything I do.

Safety first

All courses follow the NPF course program. Emergency plans, first aid and communication are part of every trip. No shortcuts.

Small groups

Maximum 8 participants per course, maximum 3 for rolling courses. You get personal attention and tailored instruction.

Passion for the craft

Kayak paddling isn't just a job — it's a joy of life. That passion rubs off on everyone who paddles with me.

Quality in everything

Great equipment, thorough preparation and an instructor who stays professionally up to date. I make no compromises.

Timeline

My journey

2008

First paddle stroke

  • Started kayak paddling
2013

Foundation training

  • NPF Foundation Course
  • NPF Technique Course
2017

Kajakkguiden

  • NPF Activity Leader
  • Kajakkguiden established
2019

Advanced qualifications

  • Advanced Sea Kayaking
  • ISKGA Incident Management
  • BC Coastal Sea Kayak Award
2020

River paddling

  • NPF Foundation River Course
2021

Advanced qualifications

  • BC Coastal Navigation & Tidal Planning
  • BC Sea Kayak Leader (tidal)
  • Wilderness First Responder
2022

Instructor

  • NPF Sea Kayak Instructor

Onward

  • Continuous professional development
  • New courses and trip experiences

Ready to paddle?

Browse all courses and find the one that suits you. Or get in touch to plan something tailored.