Learn to Kayak With Expert Guidance

Safe, Fun, and Personalized Instruction in Wisconsin.

For beginners to advanced paddlers — perfect for families, thrill seekers, and outdoor adventurers.

 

People kayaking on a calm lake with green trees in the background.

Welcome to Silent Wake Kayaking.

Why take a class with us? For four years in a row, your lead instructor, Daren, had ranked within the top ten in the American Canoe Association (ACA) Annual Instructor Contest. This is an international competition contest for ACA instructors in all ACA disciplines who teach Level 1 and Level 2 courses (our Kayak Kickstart and Essentials sessions).

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Kayakers paddling upstream near leafy riverbank

Moonlight/W.O.W./Day trips/Sampler/Greece

Two children in colorful kayaks on a calm lake.

Recreational/Kickstart/Essentials/Rescues/Rolling

Our Mission at Silent Wake is to provide a safe, educational, and enjoyable process to learn how to kayak. We provide the means, you provide the desire. We are conveniently located between West Bend and Port Washington, Wi.

Real time upper Milwaukee river conditions below. Sections from West Bend down to Thiensville vary in depth, these values are gauged based on the shallowest areas - and personal experience/fun factor.   

Milwaukee River Conditions
Near Cedarburg, WI
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Live data: USGS Gauge 04086600
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Jason Lichter profile picture
Jason Lichter
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Daren and Kristin made our kayaking trip unforgettable! From booking to the actual adventure, their personalized communication and warm hospitality were outstanding. Everything was perfectly organized upon arrival, and their clear instructions and evident passion made the experience truly special. My wife and I enjoyed every moment and couldn’t stop smiling the entire day. It’s clear they put great care into creating memorable experiences. If you’re considering a kayak outing for fun or learning, don’t think twice—they’re the best! We can’t wait to return.
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Krissy Ceranowski profile picture
Krissy Ceranowski
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Highly recommend the kayak rescue class! I have more trust in myself now knowing that I could get myself back into my kayak mid water, if need be! Daren and Kristen were fantastic instructors! Thank you both for a great afternoon and for sharing your knowledge.
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David Standhardt profile picture
David Standhardt
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Excellent experience. Wonderful night and very peaceful paddling. My wife and I brought our own kayaks and they were very accommodating. I also appreciate the after experience resources for other places to paddle. Would recommend to any experience level- never paddled before to individuals who know what they are doing.
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DD Johnson profile picture
DD Johnson
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I attended an All Women's Kayak with a friend. Several other ladies also attended. It was a great experience. Christine and Daren are so helpful, personable and knowledgeable and a joy to be around. Would definitely recommend Silent Wake for any of your kayak experiences.
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John W. Sharer profile picture
John W. Sharer
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What a great learning experience with Daren. I’m a first time kayaker and in my 80th year who is planning a kayaking trip with my adult kids. Daren’s knowledge for preparing me for the water was encyclopedic and his understanding of my age related issues made it possible for me to truly enjoy my first kayaking experience. Highly recommend Daren and Silent waters for learning how to kayak. He is a veteran owned business who actually works with veterans of all abilities. Can’t tell you just how much this was an enjoyable learning experience. Many thanks!!!
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Robin Gecko profile picture
Robin Gecko
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I had a great day on lake Pike. I got a lot of pointers on improving paddle stroke. Insight into rules of water ways and insightful safety tips. Daren is knowledgeable and a great teacher. A rare combination
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Pat Dennis profile picture
Pat Dennis
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Our family (11-74 yrs) enjoyed an EXCELLENT kayaking outing with Silent Wake. The guides were informative & helpful…equipment was all in good condition…the 2 hour ride was enjoyable and within everyone’s abilities. We highly recommend this adventure.
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Daniel Johnson profile picture
Daniel Johnson
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What a great time today at the beginners Kayaking class at Mauthe Lake . A great instructor, he was knowledgeable, informative and patient. My wife and I learned much and going on our next journey we’d highly recommend the class and company!
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david hallerman profile picture
david hallerman
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My review is for a 4 session, in the water kayaking class at the YMCA in West Bend. I was looking to jumpstart my knowledge and skills, and Daren and Kristen were the perfect instructors for me. The instructional time was split between classroom and water (pool). Topics covered were broad and included paddling techniques, water safety, self rescue, navigation, proper clothing, communication, regulations, getting connected to kayaking groups, paddler resources, and more. Daren and Kristen packed a lot into the four 3-hour sessions, but it never felt rushed. Class size was small, and there was ample time for questions and personalized instruction. If you are on the fence about taking a class from Silent Wake, just do it!
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Abigail Perez profile picture
Abigail Perez
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We had such a great experience in the YMCA kayak classes taught by Daren and Kristin! They are incredibly knowledgeable, and we learned so much from them. We also saw big improvements in our technique, skills, and confidence thanks to their coaching and practical tips. Not to mention, we had a ton of fun! Highly recommend taking a class with Silent Wake!

Public Events

Want to book outside of our public dates? Whether you are looking for one-on-one coaching or a private group experience (2+ people), we can help. Click below to find a time that works for you or your party.

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Kayaking in Greece

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