You’ll need to come prepared for time on the water, so make sure to bring essentials that keep you comfortable before, during, and after your session. A towel and a full change of clothes are recommended in case you get wet, along with swimwear or trunks to wear under a wetsuit. It’s also a good idea to wear shoes that can get wet or bring a spare pair for afterwards. Snacks and drinks will help keep your energy up, especially on longer sessions. If you take any medication, please ensure you have it with you on the day. And, most importantly, bring a sense of adventure and a willingness to have fun—this makes all the difference on the water.

Are there any age restrictions?

These activities are open to participants aged 12 and above. This ensures everyone taking part can safely handle the equipment and enjoy the experience. The sessions are designed to be inclusive and family-friendly while still maintaining the right level of supervision and safety for younger participants. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian either on the water with them or nearby at the viewing point for the duration of the session. This policy may vary slightly depending on the specific activity or location, but safety and supervision are always the top priority.

What about the weather?

All sessions depend on the weather and water conditions to make sure they’re safe and fun for everyone involved. In the case of strong winds, heavy rain, or unsafe water levels, sessions may need to be postponed or moved to a more sheltered location. The decision will always be made with your safety in mind. If a session has to be rescheduled or relocated, you’ll be contacted in advance with as much notice as possible. The team keeps a close eye on forecasts and conditions, and any changes will be clearly communicated so that you can plan your day with confidence.

How will this course help me improve my paddleboarding?

The six-week programme is carefully structured to take you from complete beginner to confident paddler. In the first few sessions, emphasis is placed on basic balance, posture, and core paddling skills, ensuring that you feel comfortable kneeling and standing on the board. Progressively, you will be introduced to more advanced strokes, steering techniques, and group paddling exercises, giving you practical experience on both calm and slightly moving water. Later sessions include open water navigation and self-rescue skills, teaching you how to handle gentle tidal currents, light wind, and small waves safely. This step-by-step approach ensures consistent skill development and confidence, preparing you to paddle independently or in small groups after completing the course.

Do I need any prior experience?

Absolutely not. The course is designed for beginners with no previous paddleboarding experience. You will be guided at your own pace, and every session is tailored to build confidence gradually. You’ll be introduced to essential safety practices, paddle techniques, and water awareness in a supportive environment. For those with some previous experience, the programme allows refinement of technique, improving control and efficiency on the board. Group interaction provides the opportunity to observe, share tips, and practise new skills in a friendly, low-pressure setting.

How many people will be in my group?

Groups are small, limited to 1-10 people, which allows for personalised instruction and direct feedback. You’ll receive guidance tailored to your ability and pace while learning alongside other beginners. The intimate group size also encourages social interaction, giving you the chance to practise with peers and develop friendships that continue beyond the programme.

6 Week Beginner SUP Programme, Broughty Ferry

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Over six weekly lessons of 1.5 hours, you will gradually build the skills and confidence needed to paddle safely on flat and gently moving water. Each session focuses on practical techniques, balance, and self-rescue, while also giving you opportunities to explore the tidal River Tay in a small, friendly group. The course is structured to help you progress step by step, providing a supportive environment and the chance to meet others who are starting out just like you.

⚙️ Key Details

Location: Broughty Ferry Beach, Dundee
Duration: 6 weekly lessons, 1.5 hours each
Ages: 12+
Group size: 1-10 people
Level: Beginners

🏅 Key Skills

Balance and stability on flat and lightly moving water
Forward, stopping, turning, sweep, and J-stroke paddling techniques
Safe standing, controlled falls, and re-mounting the board
Self-rescue in shallow and deeper water
Reading water conditions, including tidal flow and light wind
Confidence paddling independently and in small groups

🧭 What to Expect

Lessons begin with introductions to equipment and basic techniques. You will learn how to handle your board safely, launch and land with confidence, and practice kneeling and standing positions. Early sessions focus on building stability, practicing forward strokes, stopping, and basic turning. Guides give personalised feedback to help you find your balance and feel comfortable on the water.

As the weeks progress, standing paddling becomes more stable and self-rescue skills are introduced. You will learn how to fall safely, remount your board, and manage small waves or light wind. Steering, turning, and straight-line paddling exercises are gradually incorporated, with longer routes and open water navigation challenges. The final week allows you to consolidate all skills on a longer, structured paddle, demonstrating your confidence and ability while practising group awareness and route planning.

📍 Location

Broughty Ferry Beach is sheltered, easy to access, and ideal for beginner paddleboarding. Calm stretches of water give you the space to learn without feeling pressured, and the scenic coastal surroundings make the sessions enjoyable. Meeting is at the beach car park, with all essential equipment provided.

Sessions are scheduled around tide and wind conditions to maximise safety and comfort. The nearby car park offers convenient access, and local transport options make it easy to reach.

🧒 Prerequisites

No prior paddleboarding experience is needed, although participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim. Guides are happy to discuss any special requirements or adaptations if needed, ensuring each person can participate safely and confidently.

🌟 Why Choose Us

Instruction is delivered by experienced guides in small groups, providing personalised attention to help you progress steadily. Each lesson combines technique, practical experience, and confidence-building exercises.

The programme encourages social interaction and group learning, so you’ll gain skills while connecting with others at a similar stage. By the end, you’ll have mastered the basics of paddleboarding and be confident to continue independently or join further sessions.