Beginner Sit on Top Kayak

Try kayaking on the estuary at Arnside using our sit on top kayaks. Led by a trained instructor these sessions will teach you, the basics of kayaking. The lessons will cover basic paddling techniques such as going forward, backwards and turning. They may be a chance to go on a short voyage to either New Barns Bay or Arnside Promenade. The lessons take place at low tide when the water is generally shallow enough to stand up in.

The sessions are suitable for people who have not kayaked before or have done a little in the past.

They are suitable for families with youth aged 12+ usually capable of paddling independently (8-12 year olds will likely need to paddle with parents or guardians in the double kayaks) and are a great way to explore some of the estuary.

Members' Discount

There is a discount for Arnside Sailing Club members under Add Ons

Club Membership 2024

£80 individual, £90 family

(+£20 per annum per membership for using Arnside club dinghies outside training courses.)

https://arnsidesailingclub.co.uk/join/

If you wish to pay via a different method or have questions please contact chiefinstructor@arnsidesailingclub.org.uk. Please note due to the nature of my role working on sessions, it may take a few days for me to respond.

Youth aged between 8-12 will need to be prepared to paddle with their parent/guardian in a double kayak.

1. Clothing

Wear clothing that will keep you warm in the wind, if you get wet.

Wetsuits are ideal if you have one. The club do not have any available to use.

A waterproof jacket or a cagoule (cag) are useful to reduce any wind chill.

Polyester jumpers (i.e. fleeces) are good at keeping you warmer if they get wet.

1. Footwear

Please wear suitable footwear that will protect your feet, trainers are ideal, water shoes are OK, but can often get stuck in the wet sand. Flip Flops, Crocs and Wellingtons are not suitable.

1. Hot Weather

Please wear suncream and consider appropriate attire for protecting from the sun.

1. Change of Clothes

Bring a towel and a change of clothing, in case you get wet. There are limited changing facilities on site i.e. gazebo.

1. Buoyancy Aids:

We can provide buoyancy aids, sailing gloves and safety helmets (particularly for children).

 If you have your own buoyancy aid (min 50N, in good condition, appropriate for your size- see the label on the inside), please bring it with you, the instructor will make a decision on its suitability before going on the water.

1. If you wear glasses

Consider a glasses strap to help prevent them falling off.

1. Site Facilities

There are very basic facilities on site including basic changing spaces i.e gazebo and an eco-toilet. There is no running water, shower facilities or refreshments on site.

1. A short introduction to kayaking and different types of canoes and kayak
2. Land drills for example how to hold the paddle and the basic kayak stroke
3. During the lesson you will learn the basics of kayakingg including paddling forwards and backwards, steering, how to hold the paddle, and how to get back on.
4. The lesson usually include a short voyage to the Promenade or New Barns Bay