Description
Why not have an instructor all to yourself for a lesson and guided trip along the grand Union Canal. We will start at Paddington Basin before heading out through Little Venice towards Ladbroke Grove. We can also paddle towards Camden via the Maida HIll tunnel on request.
We run these private sessions primarily as a guided tour with SUP skills teaching, however we can include some of the following options if requested: short races, technique training / exercises, games, or a short drink-stop.
This stand up paddleboard session is suitable for beginners and adults of all abilities and ages. For children we would advise booking at our Brentford Lock location for under 10's.
Weather conditions
Whilst we endeavour to carry out our SUP sessions, minimum numbers, instructor 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.
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
Try to arrive 'ready to go' (note very limited changing facilities). Pop up changing tents are available on site.
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 are no 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
*Maida Hill tunnel on the Regent's Canal tunnel is highly regulated and we do not go through the tunnel on our standard sessions.