EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

You’ve Got Questions - I’ve Got Answers

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUPING AND PADDLE BOARDING?

For the sake of these experiences, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) and paddle boarding is the same thing. Sure, some die hard paddlers will probably tell us why that's not technically correct, but for us (and the experiences we offer), there's no difference.

DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO SWIM TO PADDLE BOARD?

No. If you can swim it will help with confidence in the water, but it's not a requirement for our taster experiences. You will be wearing a buoyancy aid too, which helps with flotation.

WILL I FALL IN?

Generally, no. If you are really unstable and get a proper wobble on, you could fall in, especially at the start when you are getting on the board for the first few times, or when trying to go from kneeling to standing up. It's not as wobbly on the board as you might think though. Of course, if it's really hot you might just fancy a splash in the water anyway!

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME FOR PADDLE BOARDING?

You'll need your swim gear, towel, wet shoes (old trainers will do)  and depending on the time of year a wetsuit.

Dry bags and phone poaches are included for you, along with the safety stuff and the actual board and paddle.

WHAT DO I DO WITH BAGS AND THINGS WHILST I'M OUT ON THE WATER?

I would suggest leaving any non essential valuables at home, lock the rest in the boot of your car.
However we can provide dry bags and water proof phone pouches if you need to bring them along.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO GO PADDLEBOARDING?

In the UK, it's usually swimwear underneath a wetsuit, but you can go paddle boarding in any casual sports gear really. As for shoes, I recommend some form of footwear such as wetsuit boots or wear trainers you don't mind getting wet. Barefoot is an option but worth discussing with your instructor before you arrive.

WILL I BE ABLE TO GO PADDLE BOARDING BY MYSELF AFTER THESE TASTER EXPERIENCES?

In theory yes, if all goes well on your experience! Once you've got the basics, you'll be well-prepared for hiring Stand Up Paddleboards, or even investing in your own gear.

I'M NOT GREAT AT BALANCING ON THINGS. WILL I MANAGE IT?

Yes! Think positively and you'll get the hang of it in no time. And it sounds obvious but listen to the instructors, they'll have some good tips on how to progress from kneeling to standing up and, more importantly, staying up!

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER IS RUBBISH?

Rain won't stop play unless it's really windy. The theory is you won't really mind the rain as you'll be getting wet anyway!

DO I HAVE TO BE REALLY FIT TO ENJOY STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING?

You will need to be able to get on and off the board by yourself, but apart from that, no, not really! Like any new sport it can be really tiring learning how to do it, so you'll probably sleep well after your stand up boarding lesson.

I CAN ALREADY PADDLE BOARD. DO YOU HAVE A SESSION FOR ME?

Yes we do - how about joining one of our river explorer groups or enhance your skills with one of qualifies instructors.

WHAT AGE CAN PADDLE BOARD?