So, What is Silent Wake?

Established in 2018, one of our main missions is to create safer and more knowledgeable kayakers on the waters. We offer a rather unique service to our participants, which you may not find just anywhere. Think of us as a kayak outfitter and educator – offering safe and delightful experiences for everyone from beginners to advanced. Our location for both water and lodging makes your journey certain to please.

Why choose us? We value your safety – we will never place you in a harmful paddle environment or situation. The staff maintains current CPR/First Aid certification, well versed in our paddling locations, and are both members of the American Canoe Association (ACA). Our high quality gear is always clean and in working order and personally sized for each individual paddler. Silent Wake is fully insured,  holds a valid state business license, and has been awarded status as Outfitter, Livery, and Guide service with the ACA.

All classes will have a maximum of 1 instructor to 5 students – as this is the maximum safe ratio by ACA standards. At times throughout the year, I (Daren) will be aided by additional skilled paddlers, or ACA instructors, if there are more students to instructors.

I have been told in the past, in order to be an efficient paddler – one must have a quiet paddle and a quiet boat. A wake from a kayak reminds us of where we have been, and how we continue to strive for greatness.  Let us be your inspiration for future endeavors.

Your primary instructor, Daren, is an ACA Level 3 certified sea kayak instructor, with endorsements in both Adaptive paddling and Rolling. I have enjoyed teaching kayak essentials and rescue and rolls classes at the YMCA since 2012, instructing annually at the Door County Sea Kayak Symposium, as well as conducting Kickstart Kayaking classes to those brand new to the sport. Prior to being an instructor, Daren served 21 years with the US Army, residing at several military installations throughout the states and abroad. He has been in the medical field since 1985 and currently holds a nursing license.

I fully enjoy the open water and playful waves on the Great Lakes. Quiet paddles down rustic rivers, or practicing unique solo and assisted rescues; or trying new Eskimo rolls with my Greenland paddle. I soak in new techniques, tricks, and tips from other mentors at various Paddling Symposiums and destinations – as I find this not only aids my profession, but also enhances my instruction to others.

Kristin started kayaking regularly in 2013 and immediately sought out kayak education, including classes, and pointers from those with more experience. Eager to get to be outdoors and on the water, she is inspired by all the various kinds of water available in Wisconsin and always enjoys exploring creeks & rivers, inland lakes as well as Lakes Michigan and Superior.

Kristin came to kayaking after having done recreational, competitive rowing and through that, she brings to her kayak coaching a passion for helping people understand how to get the most glide from their kayak with the most efficient effort whether on casual outings or taking on wind and waves on Lake Michigan. She draws on her years working as an educator to facilitate your success.