Paddleboarding lessons and SUP tours with Dorset SUP
Dorset SUP is a stand-up paddleboarding specialist based at Tuckton Tea Gardens on the River Stour, between Bournemouth and Christchurch. It runs 1:1 and small group lessons for first-timers and improvers, plus guided SUP tours of Christchurch Harbour and Brownsea Island for confident paddlers. Sessions are led by a BSUPA Level 2 and WSA qualified SUP instructor and adventure guide, and the river is an easy trip from Bournemouth, Southbourne, Christchurch and Poole.
Bournemouth, Dorset
Beginner sessions available
Gift vouchers available
Guided SUP tours
Confident paddlers can explore further on a guided three-hour tour in a small group. The Christchurch Harbour SUP Tour is a 9km paddle from Tuckton Tea Gardens along the River Stour, the River Avon and Christchurch Harbour, while the Brownsea Island & Furzey Island SUP Tour meets at Sandbanks for a 9km paddle around the two islands in Poole Harbour. Both include coaching and are for paddlers who can already stand and turn on a board; if you're newer to paddling, start with the Christchurch Harbour tour.
Dorset SUP
Tuckton Tea Gardens,
Belle Vue Road,
Bournemouth,
Dorset,
BH6 3BA
Dorset SUP runs paddleboard lessons and guided SUP tours from Tuckton Tea Gardens on the River Stour, between Bournemouth and Christchurch, with tours around Christchurch Harbour and Poole Harbour.
FAQs
Where is Dorset SUP?
Lessons meet at the small slipway next to Tuckton Tea Gardens, Belle Vue Road, Bournemouth BH6 3BA, on the River Stour. It is about a mile from Christchurch and about 4 miles from Bournemouth town centre.
Where should I park?
Dorset SUP suggests parking at Christchurch Riverlands car park on Wick Lane, BH6 4JX, or on the street nearby, then walking to the slipway next to Tuckton Tea Gardens.
Where can I go paddleboarding in Bournemouth?
Dorset SUP teaches paddleboarding on the River Stour at Tuckton, on the eastern side of Bournemouth. Beginners can book the Group Paddleboard Lesson, a 1.5-hour introduction for up to five people.
Where can I go paddleboarding near Christchurch?
Tuckton Tea Gardens is about a mile from Christchurch, and it is the starting point for Dorset SUP's lessons and the 9km Christchurch Harbour SUP Tour along the Stour, the Avon and the harbour.
Where can I paddleboard near Poole?
The Brownsea Island & Furzey Island SUP Tour meets at Banks Road, Sandbanks, for a guided 9km paddle around the islands in Poole Harbour. It is for adults who are already confident on a board.
Do I need any experience?
Not for the lessons. The Group Paddleboard Lesson and 1:1 Paddleboard Lesson cover the kit, water safety, weather and how to stand up and turn. The guided tours are for confident paddlers, and novices are recommended to do the Christchurch Harbour tour before the Brownsea Island tour.
What is included?
Lessons and tours include a Red Paddle Co. paddleboard, a paddle and a buoyancy aid. The tours are fully guided and include coaching and tuition.
Is there a minimum age?
Under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. The guided tours are for adults, but children can join the Christchurch Harbour SUP Tour if you book it as an exclusive family paddle.
What should I bring to a paddleboard lesson?
It's a good idea to bring:
- Swimwear or quick-drying clothes, with a warm layer
- Old trainers or water shoes
- A towel and a change of clothes
- Suncream and a water bottle on sunny days
Who teaches the sessions?
Sessions are led by a trained, qualified and insured BSUPA Level 2 (British Stand Up Paddleboard Association) and WSA (Water Skills Academy) SUP instructor and WSA SUP Adventure Guide.
Can I book a lesson for a group of friends or family?
Yes. The Group Paddleboard Lesson takes up to five people, and if you all know each other it can be increased to eight by arranging it with Dorset SUP.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Groups are small, and tour routes are decided the day before depending on the weather and tides, so booking online with Dorset SUP ahead of time is the easiest way to secure your place.