What’s next for swimming in Bristol Harbour?
Back in 2021 we wrote a blog explaining how we thought it would be possible to offer safe swimming in Bristol Harbour. We felt that a segregated area away from other river traffic was important, with proper water based safety cover and safe entry and exit, along the...
New code of conduct for independent paddlers in Bristol Harbour
We've been working with Bristol City Council, advising on SUP safety, since 2014. Here's the latest iteration of their code of practice for paddleboarders, drawing on guidance from British Canoeing as the new governing body for SUP. Anyone under 18 years...
“The docks are for all, not a privileged few”
We couldn't agree more with the statement above from Bristol Mayor, Marvin Rees, talking on his blog about the recent proposed Bristol City Council fee increases for water users. We're currently going through the 'consultation' process so haven't said a lot about this...
Seven things we’ve learnt from the the Haverfordwest SUP accident report
The report into the tragic stand up paddleboarding accident in Haverfordwest makes for difficult reading. Our thoughts are with all the families involved. We’ve taken time to read the report in full and reflect on the findings, drawing out lessons and learning in the...
The basics of towing
You might have to tow a fellow paddler, be it a friend, family member or another water user, for a number of different reasons. This could include injury, fatigue or lost kit. This simplest way to tow somebody is to have them hold the rear handle of your...
Understanding leashes and quick release belts
Leashes are a key piece of equipment for stand up paddle boarding. Leashes are used to attach the user to board so that, in the event of falling off, the paddler doesn’t become disconnected from their craft should the wind or water carry the board...
Thinking about rescue – who is the priority?
Despite your best laid plans, everything has gone wrong and it's time to switch to rescue mode. It's the rescuer's dilemma, who should you help first? Whilst every situation is different and we wouldn't want to be too prescriptive, the general principle below can help...
How clean is that water?
It's the question we get asked all the time as paddlers. The answer is "pretty good, actually. Most of the time". Like anything worthwhile though there is a degree of risk. Let's take a look one of the main ones – waterboune diseases. Yuck! While the idea of even...
Should I wear shoes when paddleboarding?
What to wear on your feet whilst paddle boarding is very much a personal preference but having options can help you make the right decision for you. Paddling barefoot can be a really nice sensation and can feel like you’re at one with the board especially in the...
What to expect at your first members session
Great news that you enjoyed paddle boarding and you’re keen to come again! Here's what to expect at your first members session to make things run super smoothly. Before you get to the water you'll need to register online and fill in a medical questionairre. We use a...
How to chose your first buoyancy aid
If you're looking to gear up to paddle with friends or as part of a group at some point you'll be looking at buying your own buoyancy aid. With a huge range of solid foam shapes and inflatable options it can be a little confusing to know what to buy. The Palm Meander...
New 1-year warranty on ex-school boards
We’re proud to offer a 1 year warranty on our used Red Paddle boards. Why? Because we believe in Red’s durability and build quality so much that we want to go beyond the industry standard of not offering a warranty on used equipment. With a warranty rate less than...
How to choose your first paddleboard
As paddleboarding grows in popularity, so too does the ever expanding range of paddleboards that are available to buy. With new manufacturers appearing all the time, it's important to be able to look out for the key features that are going to ensure you get the most...
Tourism Declares A Climate Emergency
We've joined forces with over 400 other travel companies to declare a climate emergency. We're working on measuring our scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions right now and we'll be in a position to publish our plan for net zero spring 2023. We declare our shared commitment to...
How to fit a SUP quick release leash and waist belt
Check out this brilliant video from Water Skills Academy on how to fit a SUP quick release leash and waist belt. This video shows how leashes have progressed from surf leashes, to coiled leashes and now to quick release waist belts. A QR belt keeps the leash up and...
Road closures around the centre
Important note for drivers. Road access is from the east only due to temporary roadworks. Please allow extra time for your journey and read this carefully as Google / Apple maps may not have been updated. Updated: Jan 2023 COMING FROM HOTWELLS/PORTWAY/M5 There is...
Avon, Bantham and Beyond
The day started with torrential rain on the M5 and I'm sure I wasn't the only one wondering what I was doing driving to the coast. Still, the forecast looked like it would clear up in time to hit the tide. We held our nerve and were rewarded with near perfect...
Our view on swimming in the harbour
A few of you have been asking what we think about swimming in Cumberland Basin. We love swimming in rivers. We grew up doing it. We also love the harbour and there’s nothing we enjoy more than seeing people out on the water. What do we think about swimming in Bristol...
We’re good to go!
We’ve been back on the water since April 2021 and we’re loving it…
How have we adapted for COVID-19?
Check out our Covid policy, risk assessment and joining instructions (all updated as things change)
We’re Good to Go
We’re back on the water! Check out our new processess and risk assessment.