This half-day canoe trip takes you through the quiet, wildlife-rich upper reaches of the Daugleddau estuary and finishes at the iconic Cresselly Arms. Paddling as a group with experienced guides, you’ll be supported the whole way while soaking up views, history and the natural charm of this lesser-travelled waterway.
After meeting in the Cleddau Reach Car Park, you’ll be greeted by your guide team, who will be easy to spot by their orange tops and trailer of canoes. They’ll run you through what to bring and wear before getting everyone set up with a buoyancy aid, paddle, and drybag. Once the group is ready, you’ll walk down to the canoes, where the guides will give a short safety talk and basic paddling instruction. The route begins at Pembroke Dock and heads up the Daugleddau estuary before turning off into the quieter Cresswell River.
The paddle will last around three hours, with plenty of time to spot wildlife, pause at riverside landmarks, and chat with guides who will be sharing insight into the history and wildlife of the area. The pace is kept steady and relaxed, using tide and wind to your advantage. If anyone is struggling, guides have techniques and equipment to offer support without slowing the group. You’ll finish at the Cresselly Arms, where there should be time for a drink before transport is arranged to return you to the meeting point.
This paddle route is based in the upper reaches of the Daugleddau estuary in Pembrokeshire. It's a lesser-travelled, sheltered section of the National Park, known for birdlife, peaceful water, and rich riverbank heritage. The mix of nature and history makes for an engaging waterway experience.
You’ll meet at Cleddau Reach Car Park near SA72 6UJ, just outside Pembroke Dock. There are no toilet facilities on site, so it's best to plan accordingly before arriving. Look for the team near the orange-branded van and canoe trailer—your guides will take it from there.
You don’t need to have paddled before, but a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended. The trip is kept at a steady pace and is suitable for complete beginners, with all safety and paddling instruction provided.
All participants must complete a medical declaration before joining the trip. It’s also important to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a smooth and timely departure.
The team delivering this experience has extensive local knowledge of the Daugleddau and its lesser-known tributaries, offering visitors a chance to see the National Park from a fresh angle. All guides are experienced paddlers and know how to adapt the session to suit different levels of ability and confidence.
Everything is organised for you—from equipment and route planning to the return transport—so you can focus on enjoying the journey. These trips are built around the tides and planned carefully to show you the best of the estuary, always with safety and comfort in mind.
No prior canoeing experience is required. This trip is suitable for complete beginners as well as those with some paddling knowledge. The route is calm, and the group pace is relaxed.
Before launching, the guides will run through basic paddling technique and how to steer your canoe. Throughout the trip, they’ll stay nearby to offer tips and support as needed, making it a safe and enjoyable experience for all levels.
Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting wet, and bring a waterproof jacket. Footwear should be closed-toe shoes that can get wet—avoid flip flops or anything that may fall off.
You’ll also need to bring a towel, suncream, any personal medication, and a full change of clothes in case you get splashed. A bottle of water is also essential, and snacks are a good idea if you’d like something partway through or at the finish.
There’s no fixed age range, but participants should be physically able to paddle for up to three hours with breaks. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult and able to sit comfortably in the canoe.
All participants under 18 will need a parent or guardian to complete their medical declaration form. If you’re unsure whether the trip is suitable for someone in your group, it’s worth getting in touch in advance to double-check.
You’ll meet in the Cleddau Reach Car Park, just outside Pembroke Dock (postcode SA72 6UJ). Look out for the van with a canoe trailer and guides in orange tops. Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.
There are no toilet facilities on-site, so make a comfort stop before arriving. Once you’ve checked in, you’ll be issued with a buoyancy aid and drybag, and the team will explain the plan before walking with the group to the canoes.
At the end of the paddle, you'll finish at the Cresselly Arms where you can relax and enjoy the riverside atmosphere. You’ll have time for a drink before the transport back to the start point is arranged.
The return journey is included in your booking. The team will handle all logistics and ensure everyone is returned safely to their vehicles at Cleddau Reach Car Park.
About the centre
Cleddau Reach Car Park, Pembroke Dock SA72 6UJ
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