The series consisted of 2 continental championships (Oceania and Pan American) which were open to all countries and 3 world cup races.
The women's single canoe appeared for the first time at the world cups and was an exhibition event.
[1] The 2009 Oceania Championships took place in Mangahao, New Zealand from January 31 to February 1.
The first world cup race of 2009 was held in Pau, France on June 27–28.
Home paddlers took 1 gold, 2 silvers and 1 bronze to win the medal table.