it's a great place to take kayak classes I learned from Robert in a private class He helped me to advance a lot, especially in recovery techniques, strokers and many other things He is a very devoted coach giving very helpful individualized instructions. Also he helped me a lot with selecting gear I highly recommend Salmon Bay Paddle read more

Agree with the other reviews about the amazing depth of knowledge of Rob and his team (Robert & Suzanne for my basics class). I learned so much about a range of SUP-related topics. Once we were on the water, the real-time individualized feedback was superbly useful - it let me know what to keep doing, and what I should change to paddle more efficiently. I had a lot of fun learning with Rob/team and the other students, and I was even approached by a curious seal! One thing I wanted to highlight is Rob & team's emphasis on safety. I so appreciated how seriously they take SUP safety. I felt very safe in their care, and after this class I feel confident about venturing out onto the Sound, with a SUP buddy or two, to practice what I learned in class. Looking forward to taking another class with them in the near future! read more

I've taken a couple of rescue skills classes with Robert Nissenbaum of Salmon Bay Paddle. Robert is the perfect instructor. He is extremely experienced in his own right, and explains techniques in a way that even a novice kayaker can understand. He is very thorough and takes each students abilities into consideration. Even in a group class, each student is addressed individually at their own comfort level in a way that makes everyone feel equal. He doesn't force you to do what you may not be comfortable with yet, and instead finds another skill to show you. I know for me, the thought of a rescue class was very intimidating and I put it off for years. I've heard of many kayaking classes where it was a one-size-fits-all curriculum and that made me fearful to take a class. This is not how it is with Robert's classes. I'm glad I found Robert and Salmon Bay Paddle to begin my skills training and look forward to future instruction. I encourage and recommend that all my kayaking friends to take a class with Robert Nissenbaum or Rob Casey. Whether you're a brand new kayaker or one with years of experience who needs some refresher training, Robert is the guy! read more

I took a 3hour one-on-one novice surfski lesson with Rob and had a really great experience. Rob is hugely knowledgeable and also very patient with newcomers. I went in hoping to get the early tips that everyone wishes they had at the start of a new sport and Rob's lesson was spot on - stability tips, paddling technique, boat handling, boating conventions and etiquette, safety and gear info etc. My basic paddling in chop was going well so Rob also helped me make a start on wake riding and the concepts for down-winding. Once I get some more experience I'll be back for more. Thanks Rob! read more

Took a SUP basic class with Rob and it was a blast! He is incredibly knowledgeable and adapted the class to meet the needs of the students. We covered a range of topics: stroke techniques, gear, wave/ wind conditions, and practiced rescue with a partner. Rob provided a detailed summary of SUP resources and class info, following the course. Looking forward to my next class with salmon bay paddle! read more

I was really--and I emphasize really--looking forward to my first SUP experience, especially after reading the stellar reviews for Salmon Bay on here. With my sister in town for two days on a college swing, we figured it was time to take the proverbial plunge and make it happen, and got in contact with Rob about a private lesson for two. Initially, it went well. He not only offered up a time on Thursday evening--excellent--but even offered to come up and meet us in Edmonds, which was brilliant. I told him that I'd have to confirm our availability, to which the response was that the "date was still off," and assured him that I'd get back with a reply on the following Monday. Monday came around, and--having cracked open our plans on Thursday to suit the proposed meeting time--I sent off the promised e-mail. And waited. And waited. And waited. Finally, after waiting four days, I sent a follow-up. This one was responded to promptly, and made absolutely no mention of the previous appointment offer. Instead, Rob let us know that we could meet him on Monday or Tuesday, in the afternoon, followed up by a helpfully abrupt "gotta go, have a lesson." No reference to the correspondence that we'd shared before. No concern for the fact that we'd effectively shellacked our entire Thursday evening to make good on what had been a magnanimous offer. Just a flat-rate, no-frills, totally bunko "take these dates or don't"-type response, out of the blue. To be fair, I don't doubt that this has to be an insane time of year for the SUP outfits in Ballard and the surrounding areas, and confusion or miscommunication is likely: however, that doesn't get us our time back, nor does it motivate us to do anything but book with the next touring company over. It sounds like Rob's on-the-water technique is remarkable, and it just would have been nice if his customer service had followed suit. read more

Safety and prevention of injury are extremely important to Rob and that is why I am continuing paddling sessions. There is not a moment in his instruction that he is not thinking of both. He accomodates your level of comfort and meets your learning pace. This is an amazing sport for women over 60. Great for balance and core strength. I am conquering my fears with his help. read more

Rob is legit. He's patient, humble, and incredibly knowledgeable on the water. I really enjoyed my time with him!

I wish I could give more stars. If you want to learn to SUP, you HAVE to come here. Rob is exactly who you want to learn from. He is an expert, but more than that, he cares deeply for the sport and about people. First and foremost, he is concerned about safety. He gives you very practical and useful information before going, and then in the water, he takes it one step at a time. You proceed to the next skill as ready. He is kind and patient and talks you through each step. Seriously, this guy was made to be a teacher. As you are going, he teaches about the rules of the water, boating vs paddling right of ways', tides, currents, wind issues and how to spot any potential problems. On top of that, he gives great instruction on your paddle stroke so that you can go further without as much effort or pain later on. He is a little more expensive, (not much) than some other shops, especially the one that is always on living social, but it is more than worth the money. With Rob, you get a wet suit, booties, gloves, hat if you want it, and life vest. You get two hours in the water of really personalized, expert instruction and you leave with the basics, the right way, pretty much down. I went on an overcast, slightly drizzling, mildly windy day. It was perfect. Boat traffic was low and I was plenty warm in the wet suit. So, you don't have to wait for the perfect day. We live in such an awesome area and it was encouraging to find out that I can play in the water no matter what the weather! People like Rob really deserve to be a success, I hope more people give this a try! read more

What an awesome class my husband and I had with Rob today for our SUP certification. His course curriculum covered all that we need to feel confident to teach a class to our clients at Union Paddle and Row. Our time in the water was invaluable as we perfected our strokes in both calm and choppy water. The rescue portion of our class was presented in such a way we all left prepared and ready if need be. I would recommend this class to all. The entire day was incredible! Thank you Rob for a great class, Your friends at Union Paddle and Row read more

Rob is an expert in SUP and offers even more relevant training and helpful information because of his background in kayaking. His skill, knowledge and expertise exceeded my expectations. He presented the information and training in a very clear and concise manner; adding many various tips throughout his instruction. He is obviously an expert and great enthusiast for SUP - no one could have such a great arsenal of information as he does unless they are enthusiastic about the matter. In his instruction, Rob is encouraging, patient and practical - all very important traits when teaching a subject. He was nothing less than professional and proficient. He was prepared, on time and came with all the gear promised as well as plenty of back up options. He was also prepared for all weather and conditions. He was very responsive and engaging with all my questions. The course more than met my needs - I learned a lot and as a beginner - I have a lot to learn. Rob's course gave me extensive information on the tools, resources and tips for getting started in SUP. I will continue to turn to him as my 'go to' resource in all matters SUP. Even the weather cooperated and turned out to be a perfect, sunny, PNW day. I'm extremely glad I chose Salmon Bay Paddle and Rob for my first professional training in SUP. I felt safe and confident with him the whole time. read more

I wanted to learn the basics of SUPing in a more individual type environment and Rob really delivered on my expectations. I had read about SUPing for a year now and wanted to try it out to see if it was as fun as it looked. I had thought about just going out and renting or picking up a board, but decided a better way would be to get a good lesson and at least learn a thing or two before getting into it further. Rob was a fantastic, even before I met him. His communication via email was quick and responsive. His questionnaire was really helpful for the both of us and when I showed up he had a good idea of the level of experience I had on the water. We spent about 15-20 minutes going over the sport, the water way where we would be going, and the equipment etc. I really liked that he was interactive and engaged. Sometimes you get an instructor that talks down or is bored as they've done the same thing over and over; but that was truly not the case with Rob. When we got on the water, he was right there talking me through things and showing me what I needed to be doing. I was amazed that he was able to see what I was doing wrong, offer a piece of advice and once I put it into effect, issues like balance, turning the board, or keeping everything moving in a straight line really became much easier. At one point I was concerned that Rob was paddling in front of me and I was wondering how he was able to monitor how I was doing if I was behind him. However I realized that he was able to keep an eye on me without any problem but more importantly, he was keeping aware of what was going on around us in regards to sail and powerboats. I liked the fact that he was able to coach, correct, and ensure we were staying safe out there. I know Rob does more advanced instruction and I'm going to book another lesson with him in the future, but for anyone looking to get into SUPing, or wanting to at least get the basics down, I'd recommend taking a lesson with the crew at Salmon Bay. I was really satisfied with the lesson and feel like I got my monies worth. read more

I have taken several classes from Rob and all I can say is Rob is the absolute best SUP instructor you are going to find. Not only is he an expert in SUP but he knows his environment - tides, winds, weather, and where to go. On top of that safety is his number one priority. Rob will get you standing and paddling if you are a beginner or take your skills to the next level. Don't pass up your chance to work with him! read more

Paddled Deception Pass with Rob as my patient, professional guide - excellent experience! I was terrified and almost decided not to go at the last minute, and Rob calmly explained the plan, assured me my skills were solid (I took 2 classes from him in preparation over a few weeks) and got me back in the right frame of mind. It was a beautiful paddle, challenging at times in a good way, and we got to see seals, barnacles, a short tour through the sea caves as a bonus, and received excellent instruction from Rob from start to finish. I'm forever grateful and pleased with all my classes and the DP paddle as well. I love that he's so into safety, customized teaching at your pace (meeting where you're at in your skills and able to push you further without overwhelming you), and he's just a pleasant person overall. I recommend this to anyone interested in SUP, learning new things, and adventure! read more

Who the hell wants to go stand-up paddle in March In Seattle? Is what my wife said to me when I tried to talk her into taking a stand-up paddle lesson. The last time we did it was down south, in warm water, without wearing full body 5 mil wetsuits. Blame it on the perpetually cloudy, rainy, and sunless Seattle winter. At least I will, but enough was enough and I had to get outside, despite the weather. I really wanted to get out on the water, I wanted my wife to come out with me, and she didn't want to end up on the news. I needed a teacher. I had done some looking around and stumbled across Rob and Salmon Bay Paddle on a Meetup group. It took me a full week of sounding like a broken record before I got my wife to agree to come out with me. This was Friday afternoon. I wanted to get something scheduled as soon as possible before she realized what she had done and backed out. Rob was able to take us out the following morning. We felt comfortable with Rob right away. The first thing he talked about was safety, and it was a theme that he continually touched on throughout the lesson. We then spent some time talking about equipment and some theory. Then it was time to get in the water. The lesson was great. It was just the two of us (I think he limits his lessons to 4 people) and we were physically on the water for about 2 hours. It didn't take long to see Rob's genuine love and enthusiasm for the sport and how he wanted to share that with us. He clearly knows what he's talking about and you can also tell that he enjoys teaching. He followed up with us after in the days after the lesson to ask how things were and how he could improve his lesson. All things that contribute to a good teacher and a good lesson. In the end, we both had a great time, but damn, the Sound is cold in March. We'll be calling Rob again, but it probably won't be until summer. read more

I recently took Rob's SUP Basics Level 1 intro lesson. Very glad I did. I took the class hoping to get a solid foundation on SUP basics from the ground (or water) up. I left with a solid understanding of the fundamentals, and an appetite to go out again as soon as I can. Rob made it super easy and fun (there was a lot of good conversation during the dry ground orientation and out in the water during "board meetings"). He puts a lot of emphasis on safety and made me rethink ever going out on a board without a leash and PFD. He even followed up after the class with techniques I need to work on. I'm mulling what lesson to take next. read more

Excellent experience! Rob is not only extremely knowledgeable about the technical aspects of SUP, but also many other factors that will enhance your experience. Among these, safety on the water, PNW places to explore, history and culture of the sport, a laundry list of tips on how to enjoy the SUP lifestyle year round and a solid under standing of the natural elements (tides, swells, wind patterns, geological and hydrological features, etc...). He truly has a passion for the sport and demonstrates patience and expertise in his teaching. I recently took a SUP surfing class with him and in just 3 hours picked up a TON of things I can practice both in the surf and open water. I also had a lot of fun in during the lesson. Time spent with him will result in greater proficiency, more fun and a safe time on the water. Can't recommend highly enough! read more

I had a bit of time in Seattle and signed up for the 1 1/2 hour "SUP sampler" introduction to paddleboarding, having never been before. I was able to set my own time with Rob, the owner, for what turned out to be a one-on-one lesson (Salmon Bay appears to be a pretty small operation). In short, Rob is an excellent teacher. He was extraordinarily thorough and responsible about going over all the basics about skills and safety before we ever got out on the water. I'll admit there was a point 20 minutes in when I was tempted to look at my watch and ask if we were ever going to get the boards off the shore, but once we got out, I really appreciated everything he'd taught me. If you just want to tool around on a paddleboard for awhile, no questions asked, don't go here, straight-up rentals aren't really their thing. But if you want to learn something, definitely go here. (For rentals, go to Moss Bay, they're great for that.) read more

My wife and I did a multi-hour, private lesson with Rob that was really one of the best and most satisfying learning experiences I have ever had. We had asked for a real overview and intro to sea kayaking-- and we really got it. Starting with a detailed discussion of basics, gear, different schools of thought, the whole nine yards --- then on to in-the-water instruction on self-rescues, etc. Rob went out of his way to make this work for us, including lining up wet suits and gear. He is a clear and direct teacher, patient, and clearly truly knows his stuff. We will return for more come spring! read more

After taking the plunge and buying a paddle board recently after enjoying the rentals I had tried, I realized that as a beginner I really ought to take a course and make sure I start out with good habits and safety awareness. Online research showed outstanding reviews for Rob at Salmon Bay Paddle, so I decided to inquire about lessons. While there are less expensive options available at other schools, I really appreciated the option of one on one training with a highly experienced instructor - heck, he even has written books on the topic! As a beginner, I was interested in a basics class to start with a good foundation. I was extremely fortunate to get a lesson on short notice with one of his other instructors, Alex, and it was phenomenal. The lesson started promptly on time, and I was so happy that the wetsuit and gloves he brought fit me perfectly, thanks to the online questionnaire I had filled out in advance. We spent some time going over basics and safety issues, then we headed out on the water at Shilshole. Even with a little rain at the beginning, it was so much fun!! I learned the correct way to fall and get back on my board (one of my concerns prior to the class), better ways of turning, about boat channels and right of way, and much more. And I even got to see a sea lion and some seals! Alex was extremely patient and encouraging throughout the lesson, and his passion for the sport was infectious. I would highly recommend Alex and Salmon Bay Paddle, and I feel like my lesson was one of the best learning investments I have made. I will definitely consider more lessons as I progress. read more

Fantastic day out on Lake Union! I called the night before and was able to get a booking for the next day. Rob has great knowledge and will go over everything very clearly. He was very patient and made sure that safety was always considered. Lake Union is a really nice spot. You pass big ships, houseboats, the skyline, and go under a bridge. The small group size (I was the only one) made it feel like there was no pressure, and I could go at my own pace. Thanks Rob! read more

My husband and I were in Seattle for work and arranged to meet Rob for an SUP lesson in Shillshole Bay. This was the third SUP session I've ever had, and was hands-down the most comprehensive by far. It helped that the sun was shining, the water was warm and we saw a baby seal. Rob is a great waterman - his understanding of hydrodynamics is incredible and his attention to safety is excellent. A former commercial photographer, he also managed to take some pics of us that didn't make us look like the total dorks we are. An email from him afterward included these as well as tailored, specific tips on how to improve our technique. Personally, I find this kind of written follow-up is a great way for me to learn. From the equipment to the in-water instruction to the follow-up feedback, the whole experience was worth every penny and probably a bit more. read more