Watersports
As Camp Katonim is located on Lake Simcoe, our ability to offer a variety of water sports and activities differentiates us from many other day camps. Where applicable, we have created our own Katonim award programs to acknowledge the skills the campers have acquired during the summer. All water sports activities are supervised by qualified waterfront staff. All campers must successfully complete a swim test prior to engaging in most water sport activities.
Waterskiing is one of Katonim’s most popular watersports programs. Our campers progress from dry land through beginner, intermediate, and advanced instruction of skiing and/or wakeboarding. Kneeboarding is also offered, and a thrilling ride on the tube is a great way for campers to cap off the afternoon.
CANOEING
One of the best ways to experience nature, especially in Canada, is in a canoe. With this in mind, canoeing has become a central program activity for campers at Katonim. Beginning with safety procedures including getting in and out of canoes and proper use of life jackets and paddles, campers are given lessons and play games on the lake so that they feel confident and comfortable out on the water. Not only do we focus on paddling strokes, proper seating and skills, but children learn how to conduct a t-rescue.
KAYAKING AND PADDLEBOARDING
Like all other watersports, kayaking begins with proper safety protocol. From first glance, the kayak is an individual activity, allowing campers to grow in skill and confidence at their own pace, but what they come to learn about is the effectiveness these boats have when working together. Quicker and more maneuverable than a canoe, kayaks enable campers to explore more of the lake while developing a sense of personal accomplishment that can only be gained through working as a group. Paddleboarding is a recent addition to Camp Katonim’s watersport offerings and has quickly become a big hit.
Our ever popular Pontoon Boat has brought another waterfront activity to Camp Katonim. From cruising along the shores of Lake Simcoe, playing cards on the deck, or jumping into the water for a refreshing swim, this new activity was loved by all age groups.
SAILING
Sailing is another popular waterfront activity at Katonim. During our sail program, campers learn the proper names of all parts of the sailboat, some key nautical terms, and how to rig the boat. Often you can hear our young campers yelling “tack” as the sailboat changes directions. Our older campers can be seen sailing the boats with the support our Sail Specialists. This program offers an opportunity to learn all about sailing and safety procedures all while feeling a sense of accomplishment for the new skills learned.
SWIM
At Katonim, we believe that learning to swim is important as it helps campers to develop confidence and skills to be safe around the water. Our swim staff are all qualified and certified instructors and lifeguards. Swim staff teach campers about water safety and basic swim skills through a variety of activities. Our swim program also offers a lot of fun opportunities for campers to practice new skills through games of water basketball, jumping off the floating dock, swimming out to explore the water climber, and more!