River Spey 4 day expedition

The River Spey is one of Scotlands’ classic rivers.  It is world famous for Salmon fishing, Whisky and its spectacular scenery.  Meandering through the highlands to the coast, you pass by towns of historic significance, experience the white water rapids mixed with gentle glass like sections, and immerse yourself in the great outdoors as we wild camp by the river bank or on river islands. 

Total Cost of this trip -£550 per person. £100 non refundable deposit to secure your place on the trip. Final payment must be made at least 6 weeks prior to event.

The trip starts from Aviemore and journeys over 4 days and 3 nights; a SUP expedition with paddling up to 95km (60miles) over the four days.   

Day 1 - The paddling is gentle with a few sections of moving water.  This will help you get used to paddling with a laden board, its maneuverability and take in the surroundings.  To ease you into the River Spey expedition,at tonights’ camp we aim to be at a location with access to toilets.  A lovely campsite on the banks of the Spey with a fire pit and room for the hammocks! 

Day 2 - Stepping up the paddling; today is a mix of white water and gentle moving sections.  Keep an eye out for wildlife - Ospreys overhead, Salmon jumping and you may even spot a Kingfisher or Otter!  We paddle “The Washing Machine” rapids before making for our ideal camp - an island! 

Day 3 we continue with the white water paddling with more rapids as we journey into the heart of the Whisky culture of Scotland.  Passing by distilleries we have the chance to stop in at Aberlour for a dram at the Mash Tun before making camp further downstream.

Day 4 - Our final day we make our journey towards Spey Bay.  The river meanders and presents a nice mix of paddling with rapids and gentler sections of moving water.  In terms of paddling it is not the most challenging of days with volume however there are a number of obstacles to be navigated.  A toast to the end of the trip, celebrate our journey and share memories before we make the drive back to our start point.

The trip is not for beginners, some experience on moving water is recommended. If you are unsure if this trip is for you - get in touch and we can discuss with you - we may be able to offer a training day on moving water before the expedition.

We will meet for the trip in Aviemore - by the Old Bridge Inn where our River Spey Trip begins. 

There are a number of local B&Bs / Guest houses that can be recommended if you wish to travel and stay the night before we depart. A transfer back to Aviemore once we complete the trip is included.  You can stay again for a final night at your own cost to relax after the trip or make your onward journey from here.  The train station is central to Aviemore - where the Caledonian Sleeper stops & there are a number of city link buses that stop here also. 

Your safety is always our primary concern, we use a 2:6 ratio. Our trip leaders are highly qualified WSA Expedition Guides & British Canoeing Coaches with first aid qualifications. Our guides are some of the most experienced sup guides & coaches in Scotland, operating in multiple locations across Scotland all year round! 

What’s included? Boards - We use top quality 14 X 31 MCCONKS Go Further boards, Quick release waist leashes, Carbon 2 piece paddle, PDF and coiled leash. 

Food - We provide breakfast, lunch and evening meals while out on expedition. These are in the form of expedition style porridge packs and rehydrated expedition foods. A list will be sent out for your choice of meals. We use Real Turmac expedition foods. We supply a group cooking kitchen. 

Camping - As well as spectacular wild camping sites, we also provide quality 1 man tents, thermarest style air bed and dry bags to carry all this plus your own kit. All you need to bring is your own personal paddling gear, clothing and a 2/3 season sleeping bag. 

A kit list will be sent out to you. 

For all our trips we set up a WhatsApp Group chat, this will let you get to know who else is on your trip, ask questions to your guide and liaise with travel plans! 

Guide - Expert guide, fully equipped with VHF radio, Garmin Inreach GPS, full first aid and emergency equipment We are happy for you to bring your own SUP but it must have the ability to carry all equipment with front and back loading capabilities and be suitable to four days touring!