Intro to Paddleboarding Course
A one day Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Course based on Bristol Harbour!
What is Intro to Paddleboarding Course?
A full day covering everything from carrying a board to self-rescue. You finish able to hire boards anywhere, and it is the prerequisite for our river and coastal trips. Runs to the British Canoeing Paddle Start syllabus and includes your award.
What's included in the Intro to Paddleboarding Course session?
- Full day with a qualified coach, maximum 8 people
- All equipment including wetsuit
- British Canoeing Paddle Start award
- Course handbook
- Hot drinks through the day
- 20% off your next three harbour sessions
Who's it suitable for?
No experience is needed. Public sessions are open to anyone aged 14 and over.
Not for:
- Under-14s on public courses
- Anyone not comfortable in water out of their depth
Important Information:
Location
We meet at Cottage Inn Landing, Bristol BS1 6XG, and our staff will greet you on the quayside. Arrive ten minutes before your session starts.
Parking is free but limited at the Cottage Inn and Harbour Master car parks. The ss Great Britain car park is pay-and-display, five to ten minutes’ walk. Full joining instructions →
Showers & Changing Rooms
Weather
Water quality
Cancellation
Accessibility
Reviews
★★★★★4.9 | 173 reviews“Great trip out on the Bristol harbour with Lexy who was really keen to make sure we made the most of our visit, learning new skills along the way. We had come on the recommendation of friends and it didn't disappoint.”
Jo | Paddleboarding | July 2026“Izzy was a great guide around the harbour. Kayaks and equipment all very clean, clean toilets and showers. Was able to leave keys safely locked in building.”
Mike | Kayaking | August 2026Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be able to swim?
You’ll be wearing a buoyancy aid so no need to be able to swim. You do, however, need to be confident should you end up in the water wearing a buoyancy aid.
Do you go out in all weathers?
Largely, yes. The only reason we wouldn’t go out is extremely strong wind, or thunder and lightning. If we have to cancel due to weather we’ll aim to reschedule in the first instance. If we can’t do that we’ll offer a full refund.
What should I bring?
The most important thing is clothes you don’t mind getting wet (dress for the weather) and a change of clothes. Under 18s must wear closed toe footwear (no crocs or sliders) on the water. Please see the full kit list on our documents page (LINK TBC) or the email confirmation on booking.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 10 minutes before your session. We start promptly.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is free parking on site. It’s limited so is first come first served. The closest paid parking is at SS Great Britain, a 10 minute walk away.