Description
Why not book out an instructor all to yourself?
Whether you want to work on your SUP technique and confidence or to have a gentle introduction to SUP at your own pace - private session can be fully tailored to your needs.
This stand up paddleboard session is suitable for beginners and adults of all abilities and ages.
Please complete the questionnaire as information about your paddling ability, weight and height helps the instructor to choose the right equipment for you.
You will need to be able to swim and be confident in the water. Certain level of flexibility and ability to get up to standing from kneeling is required for learning to paddleboard.
*Please note 3rd party vouchers are not applicable for these sessions.
Weather conditions
Whilst we endeavour to carry out our SUP sessions, instructors' availability and weather conditions (if it is very windy or there is torrential rain meaning poor visibility) may mean we have to reschedule your lesson. We will always contact you to advise you as soon as we are able to discuss the options with you.
Requirements
You do not need to be a proficient swimmer, but should be comfortable about falling into water while wearing a buoyancy aid.
A certain level of flexibility and ability to get up to standing from kneeling is required for learning to paddleboard.
You will need to shower / wash thoroughly as soon as possible after the session if you have fallen in or been splashed and need to ensure any open cuts are covered (please note that under Cover 19 restrictions we do not have access to shower facilities at Paddington).
We have taken people with physical and mental disabilities out on the water however please contact us before booking as we may need to take you out privately to ensure you receive the coach's full attention.
We will also need to know of any recent injuries prior to the session.
What to bring
What to wear?
Remember to check weather forecast and dress accordingly.
In warm weather
(spring/summer):
- gym/jogging type quick drying 'technical' clothing
- water shoes if available, if not a spare pair of trainers (your feet will get wet) NO FLIP FLOPS (you may lose them in the canal)
- change of clothes and a towel (in case you get wet)
- extra layers to put on after the activity or to take with you in case you get chilly on the water
- waterproof case for your phone if you are planning to take it on water with you
- retainers for your glasses/sunglasses (don't lose them!)
Where can I leave my belongings?
There aren't individual lockers on site but personal belongings (in a bag) can be left in lockable equipment cages.
Itinerary
The session will start with some land-based training at our base in Paddington Basin, before getting onto water and piercing through the heart of London on the Grand Union Canal. We will pass through iconic London landmarks such as Little Venice.
*How far we get depends upon the conditions on the day.
*On standard sessions we do not go through the Maida Hill tunnel.