About
Description
This is a great opportunity to give paddlesports a try in a fun, safe and supportive environment. Our friendly, experienced and qualified staff will be on hand to make sure you have a great time on the water. Club representatives will also be available so you can find out more about Erne Paddlers.
If you have always wanted to have a go or find out more about paddlesports this taster day is for you. Bring a friend, bring the family and kids, everyone welcome.
We will have Kayaks, sit-on-tops, open canoes and standup paddleboards. You choose the time slots and activities you would like to try. Places must be booked online in advance. The minimum age for participation is usually 7yrs. Though younger children may be accommodated in rafted canoe sessions.
All activities will be under the direct supervision of our qualified coaches, leaders and assistants. All necessary paddling and safety equipment, including buoyancy aids and helmets, will be provided and fitted by coaches.
No previous experience required and you don't need to be able to swim. Ideal for beginners and no special equipment or clothing is needed, just come dressed for the weather. Light refreshments will be provided.
General Information
We aim to be as inclusive as possible. If you have any additional needs or feel you might need extra support to paddle, please contact us before booking. We will do our best to accommodate everyone.
Prices
There is a small charge of £5 per person per activity, for club insurance purposes. If you want to book for a large family, and the cumulative cost is too much, please email for info on additional discounts.
To book your place: choose a time and then pick an activity
Simply select the time of session you wish to attend. Click on that link and then select the activity you would like to try.
SPACES ARE LIMITED
Hourly sessions:
(i) 10am - 11am: (this event) Link: https://bit.ly/TasterDay10am
(ii) 11am - 12pm: Link: https://bit.ly/TasterDay11am
(iii) 12pm - 1pm: Link: https://bit.ly/TasterDay12noon
Book your session of choice based on these options:
A - Kayaks - We have stable, straight tracking kayaks that are easy to get in and out of, ideal for your first try. Kayaks are single person craft that you sit in and use a double bladed paddle. (8 spaces)
B - Sit on tops - these are simply kayaks that you sit on top of, rather than inside. They are easy to use, very stable and great fun for short journeys and games. (8 spaces)
C - Standup Paddleboards (SUPs) - an increasingly popular pastime, accessible, slow moving, great for a relaxing trip or for some fun and games. Suitable for all ages. We have wide, stable boards and you don't have to stand up straight away! (8 spaces)
D - Rafted Canoes - these are large, very stable open canoes that can hold groups of up to eight people with an instructor in each raft. Perfect for families, complete beginners, anyone with additional needs or anyone who may just be a little nervous on the water. (16 spaces)
Equipment
We will provide all the paddlesport equipment you need; kayaks, paddles, buoyancy aids and helmets.
The only thing we can't supply is your personal paddling wear. Wear a wetsuit if you have one, or normal outdoor sports clothes; fleeces or tracksuit and top, shoes to get wet and a waterproof coat.
You must bring a full set of dry clothes, shoes and a towel.
Facilities
There is free parking available in the area around the Lakeland Forum. We will meet at the back of the Lakeland Forum building, at the canoe steps. Please arrive ready to paddle.
Afterwards, you can change at your car, or drive straight home. For changing at your car (as many paddlers do), a changing towel and mat to stand on make this a much easier and discreet process. Or some prefer stay in their paddling kit and use a large bin liner to sit on in the car, and change at home. We do recommend that you shower soon after paddling.
Alternatively, normal public toilet and changing facilities are available in the Lakeland Forum, for a small fee. Please pay at reception when you go in and remember to allow plenty of time for this.
