Ideal for paddlers with some experience, the Stand Up Paddleboard Sheltered Water Award builds your ability to plan and carry out safe trips in calm conditions. The two-day course focuses on developing confidence, control, and decision-making on sheltered water, with expert instruction throughout.
The course is aimed at helping you paddle safely and confidently in sheltered water environments—no more than 200 metres from the shore and in winds up to force 3. It combines practical skills, safety awareness, and trip planning to help you take more responsibility on the water while having fun and learning alongside others.
You’ll begin by learning how to evaluate weather and water conditions, check for local restrictions, and choose suitable equipment. The focus is on making sound decisions before you even get on the board. Once on the water, you’ll work on body positioning, balance, and efficient paddling techniques to give you better control and awareness in varying conditions.
Your instructor will guide you through a range of scenarios, including how to adapt your plans if the conditions change and how to rescue yourself or another paddler if needed. Self-rescue techniques are a core part of the course and will be practised in realistic but supportive settings. Each day will finish with a debrief, helping you review your progress and set personal goals.
You’ll also look at how to continue improving after the course. This may include peer feedback, using video to refine technique, and identifying resources to support your development. Throughout both days, you’ll be encouraged to think critically about your choices and gradually build your skills with each session.
Sessions are held at a variety of sheltered water locations around South Pembrokeshire, selected based on weather and group ability to ensure the best learning environment. These could include quiet stretches of estuary, bays or slow-moving water with easy access.
The meeting point for both course days is 6 Northgate St, Pembroke SA71 4NR. All equipment will be transported from there, and your coach will let you know the exact paddling venue each day based on local conditions.
You should already be comfortable on a stand up paddleboard in calm conditions and have some experience paddling short distances. This is not a beginner course, so a basic level of paddling knowledge and confidence is expected.
Participants must be able to swim and should be happy spending extended periods on the water. A moderate level of fitness is required, and a willingness to get wet during rescue practice will help you get the most from the course.
The team behind this course are highly experienced paddleboard instructors who specialise in delivering high-quality, supportive training for paddlers of all levels. The sessions are run in small groups to ensure everyone gets individual feedback and has time to build their skills at the right pace.
As a recognised Paddle UK Delivery Partner, the centre maintains excellent coaching standards and prioritises safety, accessibility, and environmentally responsible paddling. Equipment is provided and tailored to your needs, helping to create a relaxed and professional learning environment.
About the centre
Pembroke
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Mid & South-West Wales, United Kingdom
From £63.60
Mid & South-West Wales, United Kingdom
From £110
