Introduction to Paddling

Meeting at Explore Highland Office at Clachnaharry Works Lock, we meet and discuss the day over a social cuppa. Once all welcomed and introduced, we spend half an hour looking over a variety of boats, paddles, and other paddling accessories that will be used over the day.

After getting changed, the rest of the day is spent on and off the Caledonian Canal, learning some paddling basics in three 90minute sessions using three different craft. These include open canoes, sit on top kayaks and stand up paddleboards. We will never be too far from the office and hot and cold drinks will be available throughout the day as required.

Before finishing the group can choose their preferred craft and head back out on the water for a final paddle

Tidying up around 4.30pm,  we recap the day’s learning over a final coffee.

We supply:

• open canoes, sit on top kayaks & paddleboards
• a personal buoyancy aid (PFD) and appropriate paddles
• full body wetsuit and wetsuit shoes
• full day course with over 6 hours on the water coaching/guiding
• hot & cold drinks available at breaks and lunch
• copies of photos taken by your guide during the course

What you need to bring: 

• swimwear (please arrive swimwear already on)
• wetsuit & shoes if you have your own
• waterproof trousers & jacket
• beanie/cap and shades if you wish
• towel & change of clothes
• old footwear/trainers that you don’t mind getting wet/splashed
• packed lunch & water bottle
• any medication you may require

Group Size: Max 8 (Bookings closes 48 hours before activity date. Should there not be sufficient numbers, you will be notified and issued a full refund)

Age: This trip is suitable for adults. 14-18year olds may join when accompanied by a parent/guardian (minimum 14-year-old). Should you require to book for multiple spaces, please check spaces available when registering “Add More Attendee’s? Click to toggle, limit X)” lets you see remaining spaces. Adults and U18’s need to be booked/paid separately.

Meeting Time: 9.00am. (Access from 8.50am)

Meet Location: Explore Highland Office, Clachnaharry Works Lock, Clachnaharry Road, Inverness. IV3 8RA. Google Maps – https://goo.gl/maps/JUoymHYiPcK2

Parking: Free parking available beside the office. Please see Office page for further details on directions & parking instructions.

Finish Time: Approx 5.00pm

Distance: N/A

Craft: Open canoes, Sit on top kayaks & stand up paddleboards

Personal Belongings: Camera’s, phones, car keys and other personal belongings are taken out onto the water at your own risk. If in doubt, please leave these items in your own car or office when out on the water

Terms & Conditions: Terms and conditions can be found online – www.explorehighland.com/terms-conditions/