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The Level 2 Paddle UK Explore Course is a two-day programme designed to help paddlers build independence and confidence on the water. With the guidance of an experienced coach, you’ll develop practical skills and knowledge to safely manage your chosen craft in sheltered waters while making informed decisions. The course focuses on recognising your ability, improving technique, and setting the stage for future progression in paddlesport.
The course is delivered over two full days, each consisting of structured coaching sessions that balance practical exercises, on-water decision-making, and reflection with your coach. On day one, you will focus on consolidating your foundational paddling skills, refining stroke efficiency, improving manoeuvrability, and practising essential rescue techniques. Your coach will also cover the principles of on-water etiquette and how to safely interact with other water users, emphasising real-world application.
Day two progresses towards greater independence and self-reliance. You’ll plan and execute short trips under guidance, practising navigation, route selection, and risk assessment. Sessions are personalised, with exercises adapted to your strengths and areas for development. By the end of the two days, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about equipment, routes, and safety, and you’ll receive your Paddle UK Explore Award certificate recognising your achievement.
Sessions take place across Portland Harbour, Weymouth Bay, and surrounding Dorset waterways. The harbour provides sheltered and controlled conditions ideal for skill development, allowing participants to focus on technique, rescue exercises, and situational awareness without exposure to challenging elements.
The wider Dorset coastline, bays, and estuaries offer opportunities to apply skills in more dynamic environments, including learning to interpret currents, wind, and tides. This mix of locations ensures realistic, varied experience, preparing paddlers to handle different situations independently while remaining safe under coach supervision.
This course is suitable for paddlers who have completed a Level 1 course or have equivalent experience. You should be able to swim at least 50 metres and be confident in handling your craft on sheltered waters.
If you are relatively new to paddling, an introductory course is recommended before joining Level 2. This ensures you have a solid foundation in basic techniques so you can fully focus on developing independence and advanced skills.
The centre is staffed by experienced coaches who specialise in developing paddlers’ independence. Sessions are tailored to each participant, giving you ownership of your learning and the chance to make confident decisions on the water while being supported by expert guidance.
Small group sizes and flexible locations mean every session is personalised, providing high-quality feedback and practical experience. From mastering rescue techniques and understanding on-water etiquette to planning self-guided trips, the course is designed to build your confidence and competence, enabling you to progress further in paddlesport.
Yes, for safety reasons you will need to be confident in the water and capable of swimming a minimum of 50 metres. This ensures that, should you end up in the water during the session, you can look after yourself until assistance arrives. Even with buoyancy aids and safety support available, a basic swimming ability is essential.
We strongly advise that anyone considering an activity on the water is honest about their swimming ability when booking. If you’re unsure of your capability, speak to us beforehand so we can advise you on the most suitable options.
For most activities, the craft, paddles, and safety gear such as buoyancy aids and helmets are provided. You’re welcome to bring your own kit if you already have it and prefer to use it, but it must meet recognised safety standards and be in good condition. Our team will be happy to check it before the session.
There may be some sessions where participants are expected to bring certain personal items such as water wear, footwear suitable for wet conditions, and a towel or changing robe. We recommend always checking in advance to avoid arriving unprepared.
You do not need to arrange personal insurance for the activities, as you will be covered under our centre’s public liability insurance while taking part. However, you may wish to consider your own personal cover for travel or specialist activity insurance, especially if you want to protect personal belongings.
Some activities based in certain areas, such as harbours, may require you to hold a permit. This is usually straightforward to purchase and is essential for legal access and safe participation. We will advise you where this is necessary and point you towards the correct place to arrange it.
Parking availability depends on the launch site we use. There are options for both paid and free parking, but spaces can be limited in peak times, so it’s worth arriving early. We’ll provide details of the most convenient locations once your session is confirmed.
As for changing facilities, not all sites have dedicated changing rooms. Many participants bring a towel or a changing robe to make life easier. There are usually cafés and public toilets nearby, but it’s best to come prepared for a more informal set-up.
It’s always a good idea to bring a towel or changing robe, plenty of drinking water, and snacks to keep your energy up during or after the session. If you own suitable water wear, such as a wetsuit or rash vest, you may prefer to bring this along, but we can advise what’s most suitable for the weather and activity.
Footwear that can get wet and won’t slip off is recommended, as well as sunscreen and a hat if the forecast is sunny. A small waterproof bag for valuables is useful if you want to carry personal items, though we can usually provide secure storage while you’re on the water.
Children are welcome on certain activities, though the minimum age is usually 12 years old. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the session to ensure their safety and supervision. Group sizes for families or smaller bookings are normally between one and four people, making the experience more personal and manageable.
Pets unfortunately cannot take part in activities, as the sessions are not suitable or safe for them. If you’re travelling with a dog, it’s best to arrange alternative care during your time on the water.
All staff are fully trained to Paddle UK standards and many are also qualified lifeguards. They are experienced in coaching participants of all levels, from complete beginners to those working towards higher qualifications, and always put safety first.
When it comes to specific coastlines or waterways, conditions can change quickly. Even if the weather looks calm, factors such as tides, currents, and wind can affect safety. Our instructors have the knowledge to plan safe routes, and if you’re ever unsure, we recommend joining a guided session rather than going out alone.
Yes, there are campsites, B&Bs, hotels, and holiday rentals close to the activity areas. Camping is a popular option in some regions, and local farms or campgrounds often provide good facilities within a short distance.
If camping isn’t your preference, there are plenty of hotels and self-catering options in the surrounding towns and villages. We’re happy to provide recommendations depending on whether you’re looking for budget-friendly, family-oriented, or more comfortable accommodation.
By the end of the two days, you will have a strong understanding of independent paddling, including the ability to select and use appropriate equipment, plan safe trips, and adapt to changing conditions such as wind, tides, and currents. The course also emphasises on-water etiquette, helping you interact safely and considerately with other water users.
In addition to technical skills, you will develop decision-making confidence, problem-solving abilities, and rescue techniques suitable for sheltered waters. Completing the course earns you a Paddle UK Explore Award certificate, recognising your competence and providing a foundation for further paddlesport progression.
Yes, this course is designed for paddlers who have already completed a Level 1 course or have equivalent experience. You should feel confident handling your craft in sheltered water conditions and be able to swim at least 50 metres. These prerequisites ensure that you can fully engage with the practical and decision-making aspects of the course.
If you’re newer to paddling, it is recommended to take an introductory course first. This allows you to build a solid foundation in basic paddling skills, so you can get the most out of the Level 2 Explore experience and focus on developing independence and more advanced techniques.
About the centre
Portland
Operated by Breakwater Coaching, a partner of adventuro.
