Glide along a rarely paddled stretch of the Daugleddau estuary on this peaceful downstream canoe trip from Pembroke Dock to Black Tar. Over roughly three hours, you’ll follow the tide through a quiet section of the National Park, spotting wildlife and old riverside buildings as you go. Transport from the finish point back to your car is included, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
We’ll meet at the Cleddau Reach Car Park in Pembroke Dock 15 minutes before the published start time. You’ll spot our branded vehicle and trailer, and our team in orange tops will help you get kitted out with paddles, buoyancy aids, and dry bags. After a short safety briefing, we’ll walk down to the nearby water access point where your canoe will be waiting.
The route follows the natural flow of the estuary, heading inland towards Black Tar, using the tide to help us along. This one-way paddle lets you focus on your surroundings, with our experienced guides on hand to offer paddling advice and point out local wildlife and features of interest. The pace is steady and there’s plenty of time for breaks, with resting spots chosen depending on the weather and the group’s needs. The trip ends at Black Tar, where transport will be waiting to take you back to Pembroke Dock.
This guided tour follows the upper Daugleddau estuary, setting off from Pembroke Dock and finishing at Black Tar, near Llangwm. This stretch of water runs through one of the quieter corners of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, known for its birdlife, saltmarshes, and hidden history.
The meeting point is at the Cleddau Reach Car Park (SA72 6UJ), which is easy to find and adjacent to the industrial estate in Pembroke Dock. Toilet facilities are not available at the meeting location, so we recommend making a comfort stop beforehand.
No canoeing experience is needed, but you should be happy being on the water for up to three hours and capable of light physical activity. Canoes are stable and suitable for two to three paddlers. All participants must complete a medical declaration form before taking part.
This activity is weather-dependent, and we may need to cancel or adjust plans if conditions change. Trips are also planned around the tide, so timings vary — we’ll confirm exact arrangements after booking.
The centre is run by experienced guides who know how to balance safety, support, and enjoyment on the water. Sessions are kept relaxed and informal, with a strong focus on making people feel confident even if it’s their first time in a canoe.
With access to high-quality kit and well-maintained canoes, you’ll be in safe hands from start to finish. Routes are chosen to make the most of each day’s conditions, and guides are always keen to share their knowledge of the natural and historic features along the way.
No experience is required. This trip is designed to be accessible to complete beginners as well as those who have paddled before. The canoes used are open-style and very stable, which makes them ideal for first-time paddlers or those with limited confidence on the water.
Before setting off, your guide will provide a short introduction to canoeing techniques and go over key safety information. During the trip, they’ll stay close by to offer advice, encouragement, and practical help if needed, so you can enjoy the route at a comfortable pace.
The full trip takes around three hours from meeting to finish, including time for kitting up, travel to the launch point, and getting on the water. The actual time paddling is usually between two and two and a half hours, depending on conditions and group pace.
The route uses the tidal flow to assist progress, which reduces the amount of physical effort needed. However, participants should be comfortable sitting and paddling for extended periods and able to handle light activity throughout the session.
The Daugleddau estuary is rich in wildlife, particularly birdlife. You may spot herons, cormorants, egrets, and kingfishers, especially in the quieter stretches of the route. Otters have also been seen in the area, though sightings are less common.
Alongside birds and mammals, the saltmarsh and riverside environment supports plenty of smaller wildlife such as crabs, insects, and fish. Guides will highlight any interesting species as you paddle and point out signs of wildlife you might otherwise miss.
You’ll need clothes suitable for the weather and for getting a little wet. We recommend wearing lightweight, quick-drying clothing, closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting wet, and a waterproof jacket. A full change of clothes should be brought in case of unexpected splashes or weather.
Also bring a towel, suncream, any required personal medication, and a bottle of water. You’ll be provided with a dry bag to store your spare clothing and personal items during the trip, but it’s best to leave valuables at home or in your car.
The meeting point is Cleddau Reach Car Park in Pembroke Dock, next to the postcode SA72 6UJ. Look out for the team near the branded van and canoe trailer—staff will be wearing orange tops to make them easy to identify.
Please don’t go into any nearby businesses or buildings looking for the team—they are not affiliated with them. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the published start time so that everyone can be fitted with equipment and the group can begin on time.
Once everyone is ready, participants will be taken by arranged vehicle from Pembroke Dock to the launch site near Llangwm. This is included in the tour and saves you needing to organise your own transport between the two points.
At the end of the paddle, you’ll arrive back in Pembroke Dock, where your car will be parked. This makes for a straightforward experience—simply park once at the start, enjoy the downstream paddle, and return to your car without any hassle.
About the centre
Cleddau Reach Car Park, Pembroke Dock SA72 6UJ
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Paddle West, a partner of adventuro.
Mid & South-West Wales, United Kingdom
From £63.60
