Coaching sessions are designed for paddlers who want to refine their skills and push beyond the basics. Whether you’re working on advanced strokes, efficiency, or performance, these sessions are tailored to your personal goals. With a coach guiding and analysing your technique, you’ll be encouraged to take ownership of your development while enjoying time on the water.
Coaching sessions are available in 1, 2 or 3 hour blocks, giving you flexibility depending on how much time you’d like to commit and the depth of practice you want. Shorter sessions often focus on a specific skill such as improving forward stroke efficiency, refining manoeuvring, or enhancing stability. Longer sessions allow for a more rounded approach where multiple skills can be covered, combined with time on the water to practise applying them in different situations.
Every session starts with a discussion to establish your aims and highlight areas you’d like to work on. From there, your coach will set up structured exercises on the water, using observation, feedback and problem-solving tasks to get you thinking about how to adapt your technique. The emphasis is on involving you in the process rather than simply being told what to do, helping you retain skills more effectively. By the end of the session, you’ll not only have improved technically but will also feel more confident in your ability to analyse and adjust your paddling in future.
Most sessions are based around Portland Harbour, which offers an excellent training ground with a mix of sheltered water and access to open sea. The harbour provides reliable conditions where you can focus on skill development without being overly exposed to challenging elements, making it ideal for targeted practice and refinement. Its accessibility also means you can get on the water quickly and spend more time working with your coach.
Beyond the harbour, the Dorset coastline opens up opportunities for more advanced coaching in varied conditions. Weymouth Bay and the Jurassic Coast provide exposure to tidal flows, choppier water, and open stretches that help you learn how to handle your craft in real-world environments. Your coach will select the most appropriate setting on the day to match your goals and ensure you are both safe and suitably challenged.
These coaching sessions are intended for paddlers who already have some experience and want to progress further. You should be confident handling your craft in calm conditions and able to swim at least 50 metres unaided.
Absolute beginners are encouraged to book lessons first, as coaching assumes a baseline level of comfort on the water. If you are unsure whether you are ready for coaching, we are happy to discuss your current ability and advise on the best option for you.
The centre is led by highly experienced coaches who place the paddler at the centre of the learning process. Unlike standard instruction, our coaching encourages you to think critically about your technique and decision-making, giving you tools that can be applied long after the session ends. We don’t just correct movements; we help you understand why adjustments matter, so your improvements feel natural and long-lasting.
Flexibility is a core part of what we offer. By keeping group sizes small and adjusting session length and location to suit you, the coaching feels highly personal and adaptable. Whether you’re seeking to refine efficiency for longer paddles, develop resilience in more challenging conditions, or work towards performance-based goals, the approach is shaped around your needs. This tailored process ensures your time on the water is productive, enjoyable, and rewarding.
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.
About the centre
Portland Harbour, Portland, DT4 9JZ
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 Breakwater Coaching, a partner of adventuro.
