This stand up paddleboard session is suitable for beginners and adults of all abilities and ages. 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.

This session will start and finish at our base in Merchant Square, Paddington Basin.

You'll be sharing your instructor(s) with other participants in a group session but, if you like meeting new people, this is definitely an opportunity to do so! You will get a chance to spend time on water with some interesting and like-minded people hopefully adding quality to your experience.

You'll be able to ask for technique advice and tips along the way. Don't be shy!

The session will start with a safety briefing and some land-based training before heading out on the water for a guided tour of Little Venice and beyond.

*Please, note that on our standard sessions we do not go through the Maida Hill tunnel on the Regent's Canal as it is highly regulated.

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.

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 Covid 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.

Try to arrive 'ready to go' (note very limited changing facilities).

Pop up changing tents are available on site and changing & shower facilities available on request after the session.

What to wear?

Remember to check weather forecast and dress accordingly.

In warm weather (spring/summer):

1. gym/jogging type quick drying 'technical' clothing
2. 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)
3. change of clothes and a towel (in case you get wet)
4. extra layers to put on after the activity or to take with you in case you get chilly on the water
5. waterproof case for your phone if you are planning to take it on water with you
6. 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.

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 Regent's Canal is highly regulated and we do not go through the tunnel on our standard sessions