Blurred is the line between sport and transport, as you head out onto the water and escape the summer crowds. A day out on a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) is a chance to enjoy calm exploration and adventure, and to see Devon from a different perspective. It’s a great activity for all ages too, and increasingly popular inflatable boards help with ease of ferrying around. So how can you get started?

Learning the Ropes
A great way to get started is with a taster session. You’ll be kept safe with expert instructors, be provided with all the necessary gear and will be surrounded by like-minded people all in the same boat (or board in this case). At around 1 – 1.5 hours, they’re a great length to help you get a feel for the activity.

Progression sessions are available for those looking to grow their confidence in venturing further afield. You’ll learn how to plan your routes, understand tide times and localised currents, and build your technical abilities.

Choosing your Paddle Spot
In Devon we’re spoilt for choice on where to go! A firm favourite for beginners is the Exeter canal. Hire from the quay and enjoy a relaxing paddle to the Double Locks pub or further to the Turf Locks. You can even create a loop by portaging (carrying your paddleboard across land) a short way through the Riverside Valley Park to enter the River Exe, before crossing back over to return via canal. 

Catch a calm day and head to your favourite coast spot to really get away from the crowds once on the water. Explore hidden coves and discover new beaches that can’t be accessed on foot.

How about a guided tour? SB Watersports, among others, organise group trips to help you further explore while learning more about the coast and our local waterways. Try a wildlife spotting trip on the River Axe, learn about local geology on the Jurassic Coast or discover the rock pools at Seaton Hole.

Safety First
If you’d prefer to have a go without a lesson, then remember to always respect the water and don’t lose the P.L.O.T. This handy acronym will ensure your safety: 

P – Personal flotation device. Always ensure you have a buoyancy aid, ideally of 50 newtons or more. 

L – Leash. A quick release option allows you to detach from your board in an emergency. 

O – Obstruction. Keep at least two board lengths from buoys, bridges and boats. 

T – Telephone. Always carry a mobile phone in a waterproof case should you need help. 

Paddling for Health
The constant need for balance adjustment creates a superb way to build your core strength, while paddling also improves your cardiovascular fitness. The mental benefits are tried and tested too. SUP Yoga is a new phenomenon gaining in popularity, combining the fun of paddling with the calmness and health benefits of yoga on your board in a serene setting. 

Give it a try! Find peace on a paddleboard this summer.