Joining instructions
Everything you need for the day, including what to wear.
What to wear
Dress for the weather and avoid cotton. Sportswear is ideal because it dries fast and does not get heavy when wet.
May to September: swimwear under shorts and a t-shirt, plus something warm for afterwards. You will be warm while paddling and cold the moment you stop.
October to April: we will offer you a wetsuit and you should take it.
Footwear matters more than people expect. Old trainers or flip-flops are ideal. Anyone under 18 needs closed-toe shoes; adults may paddle barefoot if they prefer.
Leave your watch and jewellery in the lockers. Phones go in a waterproof case, which we provide free.
Where we paddle
Bristol Harbour (most sessions)
River Dart
River Avon
Bath Aqueduct
Arriving
Arrive ten minutes before the start of your session. Public sessions cannot be delayed for latecomers, and we cannot refund if you arrive after the start time. Our staff will greet you on the quayside at Cottage Inn Landing, Bristol BS1 6XG.
Getting there
Parking. Free but limited on-site parking at the Cottage Inn and Harbour Master car parks. The ss Great Britain car park is pay-and-display, five to ten minutes’ walk.
On foot or by bike. About 25 minutes from the city centre, 35 from the train station.
Ferry. The harbour ferries run regularly and stop nearby.
What to bring
- Sportswear or similar, and avoid cotton
- Old trainers or flip-flops
- A change of clothes
- Swimwear, if you are wearing a wetsuit
- Contact lenses, or a strap for your glasses
- A water bottle
- Sun cream, a hat and sunglasses
What to wear
Dress for the weather and avoid cotton. Anyone under 18 needs closed-toe footwear; adults may paddle barefoot if they prefer. Avoid denim and heavy cotton. Wetsuits are welcome, and you can bring your own or wear layered sportswear.
What we provide
- All paddleboard and kayak equipment
- Secure storage for your things during the session
- Changing rooms and hot showers on request
- A waterproof case for your phone
Ages
Public instructor-led sessions are ages 12 and over. Private group bookings run from age 8. Hire is 12 and over, and anyone aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied on the water by an adult aged 18 or over, one adult to one young person.
Paperwork
Our AALA licence, insurance, risk assessments and policies are all on the downloads page.
If the weather turns
We aim to go out in all weathers. We only cancel for strong wind or thunderstorms, and we will let you know by email and text with 24 hours’ notice. If we cancel, you can reschedule or take a full refund.