ANGLESEA WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Paddle the Anglesea River: A Beginner’s SUP Journey Through Islands and Bridges
A concise, 1.5-hour stand-up paddle experience on the sheltered Anglesea River designed for beginners aged 14 and up.
Paddle the Anglesea River: A Beginner’s SUP Journey Through Islands and Bridges.
The Anglesea River narrows into a quiet, tree‑lined corridor where small islands and low bridges carve a sheltered route—a perfect classroom for first-time stand‑up paddlers. The SUP Journey is designed for beginners aged 14 and above, combining a leisurely circuit of the river with ongoing skill coaching so paddlers leave more confident and ready to hire again or try ocean conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Qualified lifeguards lead every session
Sessions are run by highly trained, expert staff who are fully qualified lifeguards, providing experienced supervision throughout your lesson.
Top-quality, all-inclusive learn-to-SUP equipment
Go Ride A Wave supplies the necessary learn-to-SUP equipment so participants can focus on learning: SUP, paddle, PFD, full-length wetsuit and booties are all provided.
A sheltered river route for calm, focused practice
The river’s sheltered environment and gentle course around islands and beneath bridges make it an ideal place to develop balance and paddling technique without the demands of ocean conditions.
What the day feels like
What the SUP Journey Feels Like
The flow of the session is relaxed and progressive: after gearing up you'll launch into a sheltered river channel and paddle a gentle circuit around small islands and under bridges while instructors cue posture, stroke technique and board control. The emphasis is on steady skill building—each stroke is an opportunity to gain confidence in a calm, controlled environment.
THE GUIDE
Qualified lifeguards lead every session
Sessions are run by highly trained, expert staff who are fully qualified lifeguards, providing experienced supervision throughout your lesson.
THE GEAR
Top-quality, all-inclusive learn-to-SUP equipment
Go Ride A Wave supplies the necessary learn-to-SUP equipment so participants can focus on learning: SUP, paddle, PFD, full-length wetsuit and booties are all provided.
THE SETTING
A sheltered river route for calm, focused practice
The river’s sheltered environment and gentle course around islands and beneath bridges make it an ideal place to develop balance and paddling technique without the demands of ocean conditions.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The SUP Journey runs for approximately 1.5 hours.
Meet at 143B Great Ocean Rd, Anglesea VIC 3230 before your lesson.
Bring your own swimsuit, towel and a bag for belongings; apply sunscreen before your lesson and leave jewellery and valuables in your bag or at home.
Go Ride A Wave provides SUPs, paddles, PFDs, full-length wetsuits and booties for the lesson.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages do you cater to?
The SUP Journey is offered for ages 14 and up. The SUP Skills Lesson is offered to ages 8 and up.
What days and weather conditions are best for the Anglesea River SUP Journey?
Most days of the year are suitable because the river is largely sheltered by surrounding bushland; avoid strong-wind days as they can increase the challenge.
I'm part of a group (over 10 pax); how do I book?
Group bookings are made on request. Visit the operator's group page for more information or email [email protected] with your group details, or call 1300 132 441 to request discounted group prices and availability.
Do I need to pre-book a SUP hire?
No—Go Ride A Wave does not take bookings for SUP hire as they have plenty of boards in stock. You can call to check availability or pop in. Note the seasonal hire hours for Anglesea: open 7 days a week from September School Holidays to Easter School Holidays; closed on weekends over winter and closed on Christmas Day.
Does Go Ride A Wave have insurance?
Yes—Go Ride A Wave holds $20 million Public Liability insurance and $5 million Professional Indemnity; personal accidental cover is not included and travellers should consider personal travel insurance.