Team Explore Highland
Explore Highland prides itself on the quality and dedication of our coaches and staff. We only employ highly-qualified, experienced and passionate instructors (minimum Level 3 coaches) who live and breathe what they teach. Between them, our coaches cover all types of paddlesport available; from sea kayaking, open boating, white water, surf and even play boating!
We're sure we have the expertise and ability to help you progress in whatever type of paddlesport you're interested in; whether you're simply after help polishing-up that hanging draw, or you're totally new to the sport and you're looking for somewhere to start. We know the Scottish Highlands extremely well and are able to offer advice, guidance and support for your next adventure.
Our Instructors
Donald Macpherson
Proprietor/Instructor
Born and brought up in Inverness his passion for sport and the outdoor life has always ruled his world. After studying HND Sports Coaching with Sports Development at Edinburgh's Telford College, Donald has progressed through the coaching ranks in various sports including swimming and gymnastics, and now enjoys guiding and coaching all three paddle sports disciplines, and loves playboating.
As well as running Explore Highland, Donald works the Project Officer for the Great Glen Canoe Trail and has just written the guidebook to Scotland's first formal Canoe Trail. He also freelances for Glenmore Lodge, West Highland College and The Highland Council Outdoor Education.
Donald is supported by Peak UK, P&H Custom Sea Kayaks (including Venture Canoes and Pyranha Kayaks) and Stirling Canoes.
Heroes: Whoever thought of the Kelly Kettle and Pot Noodles!
Favourite Paddle Spot: River Moriston.
Other Sports: Adventure Racing, Cycling, Swimming and Running.
Qualifications: BCU Level 5 Aspirant Coach (Inland), BCU Level 3 Coach (Open & Sea)
Malcolm Wield
Environmental Advisor/Freelance Instructor
Has lived and worked as a forester in Argyll, Perthshire and the Highlands since 1978. Bought an old canoe from a friend years ago and never looked back. Now enjoys coaching both kayak and canoe and using boats to see nature from a totally different perspective. Enjoys canoe touring and extended expeditions just as much as short day runs down white water. Served on the Committee of Inverness Canoe Club for 7 years. Had two terms as President, 2008 - 2010 and was grateful to be awarded Life Membership and a Kelly Kettle for services rendered. Has been known to walk big hills on occasions and likes mountain biking on tracks in the summer.
Heroes: Ernest Shackleton, Grey Owl, Eddie the Eagle and Cher.
Favourite Paddle Spot: Bottom Findhorn.
Qualifications: BCU Level 3 Coach (Inland and Open)
Steve Mackinnon
Technical Advisor/Freelance Instructor
As a former SCA Regional Coaching Officer for the Highlands and Islands, ex-president and founding member of the Inverness Canoe Club, Steve Mackinnon is well know as a coach and mentor to many across Scotland; he still works with a broad range of Highland clubs. Steve is currently sponsored by System X (Liquid Logic, Werner, Sweet Protection, HF, Shred Ready and Immersion Research) and Palm (Palm, Dagger, Mad River and Wilderness Systems).
Heroes: The Owner of Starbucks and the designer of the Spork, oh and Batman!
Favourite Paddle Spot: River Garry (Inverness-shire).
Other Sports: Skiing (Nordic, Alpine and Telemark).
Qualifications: BCU Level 5 Aspirant Coach (Inland), BCU Level 3 Coach (Open, Sea & Surf)
Freelance Instructors
From time to time other specialist instructors and guides help us to provide our bespoke requests, as well as helping to deliver our planned courses or journeys. Rest assured that they know their stuff!