TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS

Each discipline of paddling enables us to explore different areas and types of water.

Over the years we’ve had the opportunity to access many opportunities and new events with trips being organised each season – mostly in the warmer months, but day trips also take place in the winter.

Our paddling has taken us: to circumnavigating Hayling Island, Solent paddles, Chichester Harbour paddles, River Wye weekend trips, Poole Harbour (including Old Harry), River Thames, The Hamble.

… there are many more interesting places to explore and enjoy with our friendly club!  Sign into WebCollect to view and book into our trips.

PADDLING WITH YOUR PALS

Chichester Canoe Club’s objective is to run as many trips as possible, mindful of important practical considerations, including  the number of coaches and leaders available, and their qualifications and skillsets so that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on the water.  

Groups of friends, e.g local paddlers (including from this club) may organise their own paddles/trips.

PaddleUK’s safety document provides safety information, guidance and advice.  Do read this and keep it in mind, along with these useful pointers, when you organise your own trips, around Chichester or further afield. 

Paddling in a group is safer than paddling alone: the collective capability of a group of pals/peers acts to provide a safety net.  Having three (or more) in a group means you can cover key roles if things go awry (1st capsizes, 2nd calls for help, 3rd helps rescue).  On a paddle with pals/peers, no one takes overall responsibility for leadership, safety or well-being of the group. Someone may co-ordinate meeting times and venues but has no more authority than any other participant.

Everyone should take full responsibility for their own kit and safety whilst behaving in a responsible way.  Paddlers in the group have a duty of care and are expected to look out for themselves and each other whilst staying within their own limitations.  Remember to be realistic about your ability.

For trips on coastal waters, remember that kayaking in tidal conditions is not as straightforward as it may seem when looking across the water on a lovely sunny day.

Paddle safe and have fun.

KAYAKING

Kayaking refers to a closed cockpit or ‘sit in’ boat – experienced paddlers usually wear a spray deck to keep water out. Kayaking can be on any type of water; white water rapids, sea, or flat water for racing or river touring. There are different boats for each type and you can try many of them with us before you decide which one is for you. There are also ‘sit on top’ boats which can be great fun for the family. But be warned – you will enjoy them all! We can provide you with personal training which covers paddle skills and water safety.

PADDLE BOARDING

Paddleboards (SUPs) have become one of the most popular ways for people to enjoy waterways. Come and try one with us – great for whole body tone up and even used to practice yoga on, if you prefer something more sedate!

CANOEING

Canoeing refers to open cockpit boats or Canadian paddle craft. Great for solo, double and even dogs!. Canoe paddling the local rivers and harbours can be a wonderful way to see our natural landscape in a way that no footpath can offer. We also run camping weekend tours for those who want to exercise their ‘expedition’ within. We can help with making this fabulous pastime.

COURSES

We encourage our members to develop their skills by:

  • Joining on our club sessions
  • Participating in club trips
  • Completing British Canoeing/PaddleUK Awards eg Paddlesafer Award, Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Course, Start, Discover, Explore Course.  From time to time, we can offer these awards,  Alternatively, we can help get a group together to secure discounted rates with a local provider who offers Touring, Canoe, and Sea Kayak Awards.