Kayaking with Cornwall Wildlife Trust

Cornwall Wildlife Trust has teamed up with Koru Kayaking, with one of their wildlife experts joining selected trips throughout the season. An optional discretionary donation to Cornwall Wildlife Trust is available.

Find out more at www.cornwallwildlifetrust.co.uk.

Your 2-hour guided kayak adventure begins with a short 10-minute briefing to help you get the best out of your kayak. You’ll then be launched from the Budock Vean Hotel & Spa foreshore and paddle along the peaceful Port Navas Creek.

Depending on conditions, your route may take you towards Grebe Beach, passing Helford Passage, Trebah and Glendurgan. You’ll glide over seagrass beds and alongside Devonian slate, home to oysters, mussels and scallops.

Alternatively, you may head upriver to Frenchman’s Creek, where you’ll discover a historic shipwreck and paddle through North Atlantic temperate rainforest, rich in fish and birdlife.

1. Swimming ability: Participants must be able to swim at least 25 metres.
2. Age: Minimum 10 years old. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
3. Fitness: A reasonable level of fitness and agility is required. You should be comfortable in and around water.
4. Experience: Trips are suitable for beginners, with full guidance and instruction provided.
5. Boarding ability: You must be able to get in and out of the kayak unassisted.
6. Health: Participants with medical conditions that may be affected by moderate physical activity or water immersion should consult their doctor before booking.

What’s provided:

1. Kayak, paddle and buoyancy aid
2. Safety briefing and instruction
3. Experienced guide (and wildlife expert on selected trips)

What to wear:

1. Quick-dry clothing or swimwear
2. Footwear suitable for water (wetsuit boots or old trainers)
3. Weather-appropriate layers and sun protection

Important notes:

1. All trips are weather and tide dependent; changes may be necessary for safety.
2. Participants may get wet.
3. All safety equipment must be worn at all times while on the water.

1. Swimwear (to wear under a wetsuit)
2. Footwear that can get wet (wetsuit boots, old trainers, or water shoes)
3. Towel and change of clothes for after your trip
4. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen)
5. Water bottle to stay hydrated

Optional:

1. Lightweight waterproof or windproof layer
2. Small dry bag for personal items

Please note:

1. Valuables should be left at home or stored securely, we have a communal boatshed that gets locked when we are out on the water
2. Cameras or phones can be brought at your own risk

1. Arrival & welcome at Budock Vean Hotel & Spa foreshore
2. Kit up with kayak, paddle and buoyancy aid
3. 10-minute safety and technique briefing, covering paddling, steering, and how to get the best out of your kayak
4. Launch onto the Helford River with your guide
5. Explore the river and creeks, spotting wildlife and learning about the local ecosystem
6. Depending on conditions, paddle either:
7. Downriver towards Grebe Beach, passing Helford Passage, Trebah, and Glendurgan, gliding over seagrass beds and alongside Devonian slate home to oysters, mussels, and scallops
8. Upriver to Frenchman’s Creek, discovering a historic shipwreck and paddling through North Atlantic temperate rainforest, rich in fish and birdlife
9. Gentle breaks on the water to rest, take photos, and enjoy the scenery
10. Return to the foreshore, pack up equipment, and conclude your trip