Beginner courses

Equipment hire

The price of the ‘Come and Try’ session includes equipment hire; for all other sessions equipment hire is not included in the price. We have some equipment we can hire directly (see here for prices) and we work with local hire companies where appropriate to make sure you have everything you need.

Please note that buoyancy aids are mandatory for all kayakers and canoeists, and advisory for paddleboarders.

Planning Trips

This course will help you plan trips on rivers such as the Hamble as well as canals, lakes, tidal estuaries and coastal journeys.

The course is divided into 3 parts:

Must-know knowledge

We’ll look at the knowledge that you need to have before setting off – things like when and where you need a permit or permission, navigation channels, dealing with hypothermia, recognising dangerous and safe weirs and how to get help in an emergency.

Understanding the variables

We’ll have a look at wind, weather and tides – what you need to know and the apps and websites we can use to gather information.

Practice

We have a bundle of example trips you can plan, or bring your own ideas. Either way we’ll provide a template to use and guide you step by step as you put together a plan for the trip.

Location:

Andark Lake | Oslands Lane Lower Swanwick Southampton SO31 7EG | Grid reference [course_grid_ref] | Map

Previous experience needed for this activity:

None

Duration & cost:

3 hours | £30

Dates:

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