What is the Start Award?

The Start Award is exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a place to start your paddling journey. If you’re brand new to the sport and really want to learn the basics to get started, then this is the award for you. You’ll cover everything from getting in and out of the boat, what you need to wear and paddling forward.

Who is it for?

Pretty much anyone of any age who wants to learn how to get started on the water. You don’t need any previous experience to take your Start Award, just the desire for fun!

1. Clothing and equipment information, think of it like a crash course in everything you need to physically get yourself on the water, covering all the types of equipment you’ll need
2. Tips for getting on the water including how to get safely in and out of your canoe, kayak or SUP from different places you are likely to paddle
3. Learn to paddle with practical skills such as paddling forward, turning and stopping… pretty much everything you need to get started and moving
4. Staying safe on and off the water, you’ll learn about how to stay safe and make the most out of your paddle session

Please select your preferred craft within the add on section of your booking.

This booking is 1 hour on the water and 45 minutes to change in and out of your water kit.

The minimum age allowed on the water is 5 years.

5 to 7 years old - Can be on a craft with a responsible adult aged 18+

8 to 13 years old - Can paddle own craft, whilst supervised by a responsible adult aged 18+ on the water

14 to 17 years old - Can paddle own craft with a responsible adult aged 18+ on site that is contactable in the case of an emergency

Weather:

Safety is our number one priority. In the event of poor weather conditions (e.g. strong winds or thunder and lightning) or other incidents we reserve the right to restrict water access to particular user groups, restrict the area available for activities, cancel sessions or close the lake. We will endeavour to give advance notice whenever possible; however sometimes decisions need to be made at short notice. If we close the lake, we will add a message to our website and endeavour to contact all customers impacted to offer the opportunity to reschedule their session or receive a refund.

Please complete your disclaimer and medical information ahead of your visit – this will be prompted through your online booking. If this information isn’t completed in advance, it can cause delays to you starting your session. This information must be completed for every person participating.

·Swimwear to wear under a wetsuit

·A change of clothes if you don’t wish to wear a wetsuit

·Shoes you are happy to get wet (old trainers or water shoes) – footwear must be worn when entering or exiting the water

·Suncream

·Hat – either a warm hat or sunhat depending on the weather

·Bottle of water

·Towel

·Warm clothes for afterwards

A wetsuit, buoyancy aid and helmet (where appropriate) will be provided, however you are welcome to bring your own wetsuit if you wish.

Please bring lunch, drinks and snacks with you, or alternatively we have a café on site.

1.     Arrive at scheduled session time (ensuring your disclaimer has been completed online prior to arrival).

2.     Meet and great with your instructor.

3.     Change into water kit (wetsuit/Buoyancy aid)

4.     Time to enjoy your instructor lead session on the water.

5.     Change out of water kit (wetsuit/Buoyancy aid)