A long-standing tradition with older campers during the Main Session is Merrie-Woode’s Captains Program, which incorporates canoeing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, and first-aid skills. It allows interested campers to build their boating skills over several summers in order to reach the highest level of Captain.
Unique to Merrie-Woode, The Captains Program was created by Anne Otter Downs in 1938 as a flat water canoeing program with requirements that focused on safety, proficiency of strokes, and self-confidence. It was originally composed of 21 requirements and 8 insightful principles that guides the program’s purpose by encouraging friendship, character and leadership. The program has evolved into 178 requirements divided into five levels: Bow, Stern, Starmate, First Mate and Captain. Today, the program aims to capture Downs’ original goals as well as keeping up with safety requirements mandated by the American Canoe Association and new developments in the sport. Our program emphasizes proficiency of strokes, not perfection. Our staff teaches campers to execute strokes and skills effectively while emphasizing proper form and safety. Early lake skills feed into more advanced river skills. The 8 insightful principles remain the centerpiece to the program’s purpose where leadership is by example.
Canoeing and Kayaking are favorite activities for many campers. This program offers challenges and adventures for all levels of boaters. Classes are divided into skill levels, with an instructor working with a small group of campers to enable them to receive close attention and guidance from experienced paddlers. Girls progress from learning the basics of forward paddling and turning to doing landings at the dock and navigating the slalom course at the head of the lake. Weather permitting, boating classes are conducted on the lake during every available class period at Camp. Campers can also paddle on Lake Fairfield without signing up for a boating class during a very popular time known as ‘Free Boats’ that is routinely held after dinner.
Camp Merrie-Woode has been operating a whitewater boating program for over 50 years and the tradition is still going strong today. Paddling whitewater is a significant way in which Camp Merrie-Woode fulfills its mission of providing adventure education to its campers. The rivers of western North Carolina, in addition to offering stunning views and exciting rapids, are perfect for instruction at a wide variety of skill levels. The Nantahala, French Broad, Green, and the Chattooga Rivers are all frequented destinations by Merrie-Woode boaters. These rivers have rapids ranging from Class I to Class III difficulty. Campers of all ages can go on river trips and can choose to participate based purely on interest in a specific trip, or more regularly as part of the boating levels program. Environmental education and fostering a love of the outdoors are also core values of the boating program.
Sunfish and Lasers are used in Merrie-Woode’s Sailing Program. Campers begin with lessons involving safety protocols, nomenclature, and basic wind positions. Sailing takes place on Lake Fairfield with occasional trips to Lake Glenville. While on the water, much attention is paid to the practical application of sailing terms, knots, and principles.