A full-day plunge into stand up paddle boarding: learn the craft, earn the award, keep the stoke

TOTNES CANOE FIELD GUIDE

A full-day plunge into stand up paddle boarding: learn the craft, earn the award, keep the stoke

A full-day Stand Up Paddle Boarding course in Totnes with professional coaching covering equipment setup, core techniques and Paddle UK award progression.

A full-day plunge into stand up paddle boarding: learn the craft, earn the award, keep the stoke.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Totnes
Operator
Rock The Boat Activities Ltd
Category
Canoe
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

This full-day Discover Stand Up Paddle Boarding course in Totnes is a step-by-step introduction to paddleboarding: fitting kit, assembling and launching your board, practising body position and paddle technique on sheltered water, and learning how to choose safe paddling locations. Professional coaches lead sessions mapped to Paddle UK paddle awards so newcomers and returning paddlers leave with clear skills and the option to progress through formal awards.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

SKILL-BUILDING

Professional coaching and Paddle UK progression

Coaches guide you through fundamental techniques—body position, staying stable and paddle strokes—and you have the opportunity to gain Paddle UK paddle awards at no extra cost, providing a structured pathway from beginner to confident paddler.

THE BASICS

From kit fit to confident launches

The course follows a step-by-step process: correctly fitting equipment, setting up your paddleboard and getting safely on the water so you can focus on technique rather than improvising gear or entry methods.

THE SETTING

Sheltered-water practice for steady progress

Training takes place in sheltered water environments that let coaches focus on skills—stability, paddle technique and paddling with the environment—so learners can build confidence without open-water exposure.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

The day moves from land to water in measured stages: gear and board setup, on-shore instruction in stance and paddle technique, then short on-water drills led by coaches, widening into guided paddling as confidence grows. Expect hands-on corrections, practical tips on equipment choice, and focused time to practice the strokes and balance that make paddling feel natural.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this is best for — and who should consider alternatives.

1
Absolute BeginnersIdeal: the course is designed for newcomers and covers safe equipment setup, entries and basic paddle technique so beginners can build confidence in sheltered water.
2
Recreational PaddlersWell suited: paddlers wanting to refine stance, strokes and equipment choice will find targeted coaching and the option to earn Paddle UK awards to formalize skills.
3
Active FamiliesSuitable: the offering notes it is for everybody and 'for all ages,' making it a family-friendly full-day introduction when children meet the operator's age and safety guidance.
4
Skill-SeekersGood match: those aiming to progress through Paddle UK awards or who want focused coaching on technique will benefit from the structured, award-aligned sessions.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Wear suitable clothing for the season, bring a wetsuit if needed, closed-toe footwear, spare clothes and a towel, plus a drink and snacks.

Included

Professional coaching, a paddleboard (you may bring your own), paddle and buoyancy aid are included; there is also the opportunity to gain Paddle UK paddle awards at no extra cost.

Clothing & kit

Recommended kit includes a wetsuit and closed toe footwear; bring spare clothes and a towel for after the session.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the course?

Full Day.

Do I need previous experience?

No — the course is designed for all skill levels, from brand-new paddlers to those looking to polish skills.

What is provided by the operator?

Professional coaching, a paddleboard (you may bring your own), a paddle and a buoyancy aid are provided; you can also pursue Paddle UK awards during the session.

Can I bring my own paddleboard?

Yes — participants may bring their own paddleboard if they prefer.

What should I wear and bring?

Suitable seasonal clothing, a wetsuit, closed-toe footwear, spare clothes and a towel, plus a drink and snacks are recommended.