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.
This course is designed for paddlers who already have some experience on a stand up paddleboard. You should be able to paddle in a straight line, have basic turning ability, and feel reasonably stable on your board in calm water.
You don’t need to have completed a formal course before, but you should be familiar with the board and comfortable being on the water for extended periods. If you've already taken part in a beginner SUP session or have paddled recreationally, you’re likely ready.
The course takes place on sheltered water, which means areas like bays, estuaries, or slow-moving rivers that are generally calm and protected from waves. We will not paddle in conditions beyond force 3 winds or more than 200 metres from the shore.
Coaches choose locations based on weather and group ability each day, ensuring sessions are safe but still offer enough challenge to build your skills. You'll learn to assess and respond to changing conditions as part of the course.
All essential equipment is provided, including boards, paddles, buoyancy aids, wetsuits, and waterproof cags if needed. This allows you to take part even if you don’t own any gear.
However, if you have your own equipment and would prefer to use it, you're welcome to bring it along. The coach can help you check if it’s suitable and advise on any adjustments to make the most of your setup.
The focus is on improving your paddling technique, safety awareness, and decision-making. You’ll learn how to maintain balance, use effective strokes, steer with control, and respond to different water conditions.
Beyond physical skills, you'll develop your understanding of trip planning, weather interpretation, rescue techniques, and how to adapt your approach if conditions change. These are key for paddling independently with confidence.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but a moderate level of fitness is important. You should be able to paddle for periods of 30–60 minutes with short rests and be comfortable standing for extended periods.
There will also be some rescue practice, which may involve getting back onto your board from the water. If you have any concerns about mobility or stamina, feel free to get in touch beforehand to discuss whether this course is suitable.
Accommodation is not included in the course fee, so you’ll need to arrange your own place to stay locally. The area around Pembroke offers a good mix of options, including campsites, B&Bs, and self-catering accommodation.
If you're travelling from further afield or planning to stay overnight between course days, it’s worth booking in advance—especially during busier months. If you need suggestions on where to stay nearby, feel free to ask.
About the centre
Pembroke
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