Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure for 2024

This for the 2024 program year Cub Scout updates. This is a preview and is not official information yet. This new program takes effect on June 1, 2024. See more details about the overall program updates here.

The Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure is a great opportunity for Scouts to explore the outdoors and learn important skills. Through this adventure, Scouts get to choose between using a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. They will learn how to handle these paddle crafts safely and effectively. This activity not only teaches them about boating but also encourages them to be active and fit.

Safety is a key part of the Paddle Craft Adventure. Scouts start by learning how to swim properly and how to wear a life jacket correctly. Understanding the rules of Safety Afloat prepares them for safe experiences on the water. These skills are essential for ensuring that every Scout can enjoy boating activities without risk.

During the adventure, Scouts discuss how to manage common situations in paddle sports, like safely getting in and out of a craft or what to do if it tips over. They also learn different paddle strokes, which helps them control their craft better. These discussions and practices build confidence and teamwork among the Scouts.

Finally, the adventure is not just about learning skills but also about having fun and enjoying nature. Scouts spend time paddling on the water, which helps them appreciate the beauty of natural water bodies. This activity promotes a love for outdoor adventures and respect for the environment. It’s a rewarding experience that contributes to their growth and development in Scouting.

Requirements for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure

Paddle Craft Adventure Requirements

1. Before attempting requirements 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 for this Adventure, you must pass the BSA swimmer test.    
2. Pick a paddle craft for which to complete all requirements: canoe, kayak or SUP.
3. Review  Safety Afloat.
4. Demonstrate how to identify and properly wear a life jacket that is the correct size. 
5. Jump feet first into water over your head.  Swim 25 feet wearing a life jacket.
6. Discuss how to enter and exit a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddle board (SUP) safely.  
7. Discuss what to do if your canoe or kayak tips over or you fall off your SUP. 
8. Learn 2 paddle strokes: power stroke and the sweep. 
9. Have 30 minutes, or more, of canoe, kayak or SUP paddle time. 

Resources for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure

BSA Swimmer Test

Requirement 1 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure is about passing the BSA swimmer test. This test is important because it makes sure that Scouts can swim well enough to be safe in deeper water. To pass the test, a Scout must show that they can swim confidently.

See the requirements for the BSA Swimmer Test.

Here is some advice for this requirement:

• Practice Swimming: Before taking the test, Scouts should practice swimming under the supervision of an adult. This helps improve their swimming skills and confidence in the water.
• Safety First: Always focus on safety. Make sure Scouts wear appropriate swim gear and follow all pool rules during practice.
• Encourage Scouts: Encourage Scouts to do their best. Remind them that this skill is not just for passing the test but is also important for their safety in water activities.

By passing the BSA swimmer test, Scouts prove they are ready to safely take part in more challenging water activities in the Paddle Craft Adventure.

Choose a Paddle Craft

Requirement 2 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure involves choosing a paddle craft. Scouts can pick from a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Each type of craft offers a different experience and requires different skills.

Canoe: A canoe is a boat that you sit inside of, usually with someone else, and paddle with a single-bladed paddle. Canoes are good for carrying gear and are stable in the water, making them great for longer trips or carrying more than one person.

Kayak: A kayak is a smaller, narrower boat compared to a canoe. You sit inside a kayak and use a double-bladed paddle to move through the water. Kayaks are good for faster paddling and are easier to maneuver than canoes. They can be used in various water conditions, including calm lakes and rivers.

Stand-up Paddleboard (SUP): A stand-up paddleboard is like a large surfboard. You stand up on it and use a single long paddle to move through the water. This craft is good for balance and strength training and is fun for exploring calm waters.

• Consider the Water Type: Think about where you will be paddling. Calm lakes? Rivers with mild currents? This might influence your choice.
• Think About Comfort: Choose a craft that you feel comfortable handling. Consider your balance and how easy it is for you to paddle.
• Try Them Out: If possible, try each type of craft before making a decision. This can help you feel which one suits you best.

Choosing the right paddle craft is important for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Each craft offers a unique way to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Safety Afloat

Requirement 3 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure is to review Safety Afloat. Safety Afloat are guidelines set by the Boy Scouts of America to ensure that all boating activities are conducted safely.

Why Review Safety Afloat?
Reviewing Safety Afloat is important because it helps Scouts understand how to stay safe while participating in any water-based activities. It teaches them the safety rules and procedures that prevent accidents and ensure everyone enjoys their time on the water safely. All boating activities must be supervised by an adult trained in Safety Afloat.

Learn more about Safety Afloat here.

Reviewing Safety Afloat ensures that Scouts are prepared to handle situations responsibly and safely while engaging in paddle sports.

Life Jacket (PFD)

Requirement 4 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure focuses on learning how to identify and properly wear a life jacket that is the correct size and type. This is a critical safety step for any boating activity.

• Select the Right Type: Make sure the life jacket is approved for paddle sports by the U.S. Coast Guard. Check the label inside the jacket to ensure it’s suitable for your activity and body weight.
• Check the Fit: The life jacket should fit snugly without being too tight or too loose. When you put it on, fasten all straps and buckles. Then, pull up on the shoulders of the jacket. If the jacket moves up past your chin or ears, it’s too big.
• Adjust for Comfort and Safety: Adjust all straps to ensure the life jacket fits snugly but allows you to move freely and breathe comfortably. There should be no excess room above the openings of the arm and neck, which could cause the jacket to slip over your head when in water.
• Inspect for Damage: Always check the life jacket for rips, tears, or holes. Make sure all straps and buckles are intact and working. Do not use a damaged life jacket.

A properly fitting life jacket is essential for staying safe in the water. It can save your life by keeping your head above water and helping you stay afloat if you become tired or if an accident occurs. Teaching Scouts how to choose and wear a life jacket correctly is key to ensuring their safety during any boating activities.

Jump in the Water

Requirement 5 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure is about jumping into water that is deeper than your head while wearing a life jacket, and then swimming 25 feet. This task helps Scouts practice entering deep water safely and using a life jacket properly.

• Wear the Right Life Jacket: Before jumping, make sure the life jacket fits well as described in the previous requirement. It should be snug and properly fastened.
• Safe Jump: Always jump feet first to avoid injury. Keep your body straight and your arms at your sides or holding your nose if you need to.
• Stay Calm: Once in the water, relax and let the life jacket keep you afloat. It’s designed to help you float easily.
• Swim Safely: Begin swimming the required 25 feet. Use a simple stroke like the dog paddle or breaststroke. Keep your movements smooth and steady.
• Stay Aware: Be aware of your surroundings and other people in the water to avoid collisions.

This requirement teaches Scouts how to safely enter deep water and trust their life jackets. It builds confidence in their swimming abilities and their equipment. It also reinforces the importance of calm and measured actions in water, ensuring safety during water activities.

Entry and Exit

Requirement 6 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure involves discussing how to safely enter and exit a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. This is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries when starting or finishing water activities.

Canoe

• Entering: Place your paddle across the gunwales (top edges) of the canoe for stability. Keep your weight low and centered as you step into the canoe one foot at a time.
• Exiting: Approach the shore or docking area slowly. Keep the canoe stable by holding onto the dock or keeping your paddle across the gunwales. Step out carefully, one foot at a time, keeping your weight centered.

Kayak

• Entering: With the kayak in shallow water, place your paddle behind you across the kayak and the shore for stability. Sit down in the seat first, then swing your legs inside one at a time.
• Exiting: Bring the kayak to shallow water. Swing your legs out of the kayak one at a time onto the shore or dock. Use your hands for support as you stand up.

Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)

• Entering: With the paddleboard in shallow water, place your paddle across the board. Kneel on the board first in the center, then slowly stand up one foot at a time, using your paddle for balance.
• Exiting: Kneel back down from the standing position before stepping one foot at a time back into shallow water.

Other points:

• Always check the area around your craft for obstacles or other hazards before entering or exiting.
• Keep your movements slow and controlled to maintain balance.
• Use the buddy system, so someone is there to help if you lose your balance.

Knowing how to safely enter and exit a paddle craft helps prevent tipping over and potential injuries. It ensures Scouts can handle their craft confidently, leading to safer and more enjoyable experiences on the water.

Be Prepared

Requirement 7 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure focuses on discussing what to do if your canoe or kayak tips over, or if you fall off your stand-up paddleboard. Knowing how to handle these situations is crucial for safety in water activities.

1. Stay Calm: The first and most important step is to remain calm. Panicking can make the situation worse.
2. Hold Onto Your Craft: If possible, keep a hold of your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. This helps you stay afloat as these crafts are designed to aid in flotation.
3. Right the Craft:
   • Canoe/Kayak: If you’re in shallow water, you might be able to stand and flip it back over. In deeper water, you’ll need to swim to the side of the craft, reach across it, and pull it towards you to flip it upright.
   • Stand-Up Paddleboard: These are easier to flip back over. Just grab the sides and flip it.

4. Re-Enter Your Craft:
   • Canoe/Kayak: Use the “Belly Button” technique where you place your belly button over the center of the boat’s side and then kick your legs to help lift yourself back in.
   • Stand-Up Paddleboard: Climb onto the board from the side, starting with your belly and then moving to a kneeling position.

5. Get to Safety: Once you are back in your craft, paddle to a safe area. If you’re unable to get back on, hold onto the craft and signal for help.
6. Check Your Gear: Ensure all equipment is secure, and nothing is lost. Adjust any other gear as needed.

Discussing and practicing these steps helps Scouts know how to react effectively in case of an accident. It builds their confidence and ensures they can enjoy paddle sports safely, minimizing risk and fear.

Strokes

Requirement 8 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure involves learning two basic paddle strokes: the power stroke and the sweep stroke. These strokes are essential for effectively controlling a paddle craft.

Power Stroke

• The power stroke is a basic paddling technique used to propel the craft forward. It involves dipping the paddle blade fully into the water close to the craft and pulling it back through the water in a straight line parallel to the craft.
• This stroke is used to move the craft forward. It’s the most common stroke and provides the thrust needed to navigate through water.

Sweep Stroke

• The sweep stroke is used to turn the craft. Instead of pulling the paddle straight back, you move it in a wide arc from the front of the craft to the back.
• This stroke helps in turning the craft left or right. If you perform the sweep stroke on the right side of the craft, it will turn left, and vice versa.

Learning and mastering these paddle strokes allows Scouts to be more efficient and safe on the water. It enhances their ability to control the craft in different conditions and situations, contributing to a better overall boating experience.

Go Paddling

Requirement 9 for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure asks Scouts to spend at least 30 minutes paddling a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. This requirement helps Scouts practice and apply the paddling skills they’ve learned, including the power stroke and sweep stroke discussed in the previous requirement.

• Plan Your Session: Choose a safe and suitable location for paddling, in a lake with calm waters.
• Use Proper Equipment: Make sure you have the right paddle craft for your size and skill level, and that your life jacket fits properly.
• Warm Up: Before you start paddling, do some simple stretches to warm up your arms, back, and shoulders. This helps prevent muscle soreness and injuries.
• Apply Your Skills: Use this time to practice the strokes you’ve learned. Focus on using both the power stroke for moving forward and the sweep stroke for turning.
• Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your surroundings and maintain awareness of other people and objects in the water to ensure safety.
• Have Fun: While practicing is important, remember to enjoy the experience and the natural environment around you.

Spending 30 minutes or more paddling allows Scouts to gain confidence in their abilities to handle a paddle craft. It also gives them the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and improve their physical fitness. This hands-on experience is essential for building practical skills and fostering a love for outdoor water activities.

Frequently Asked Questions for the Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure

What do I need to do before I can start paddling?

Before you start paddling, you need to pass the BSA swimmer test. This makes sure you can swim well and stay safe in the water.

Can I choose any paddle craft I want for this adventure?

Yes, you can choose between a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Pick the one you feel most comfortable with.

What should I know about safety for this adventure?

You need to review Safety Afloat rules. These rules help keep you safe while you are on the water.

How do I know if my life jacket fits properly?

Your life jacket should fit snugly without being too tight. Make sure it does not move above your chin or ears when you pull on the shoulders.

What do I do if my canoe or kayak tips over?

Stay calm, hold onto your craft, and use it to keep floating. Then, try to flip it back over and climb back in.

What are the paddle strokes I need to learn?

You need to learn the power stroke and the sweep stroke. The power stroke helps you move forward, and the sweep stroke helps you turn.

How long do I need to paddle for this adventure?

You need to paddle for at least 30 minutes. Use this time to practice the strokes you’ve learned.

Mastering the Waves

The Arrow of Light Paddle Craft Adventure is a part of the Cub Scout program that helps AOL Scouts learn important skills in paddling. This adventure allows Scouts to choose from different types of paddle crafts—canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard. Through this activity, Scouts not only learn how to handle these crafts but also gain important safety knowledge.

Before they start, Scouts must pass the BSA swimmer test to ensure they are prepared for the water activities. They then review Safety Afloat, a set of guidelines that promotes safety during boating. Scouts learn how to correctly wear a life jacket and the correct way to enter and exit their chosen craft safely.

Scouts are also taught what to do if their craft tips over. This is crucial for keeping calm and safe during unexpected situations. Additionally, they learn different paddle strokes, such as the power stroke and sweep, which are essential for effectively controlling their craft. Finally, Scouts put their skills to the test by spending at least 30 minutes paddling, using this time to practice and enjoy the water.