Recreation River Craft User Course in Perthshire

This one-day course is designed for those looking to gain confidence and essential skills for navigating moving water safely. Whether you’ve recently purchased a packraft, inflatable kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, this session will help you understand river features, hazards, and rescue techniques, ensuring you can enjoy your time on the water with greater awareness and skill.

Key Details

• Duration: 1 day
• Location: Perthshire
• Group Size: Maximum 8 participants
• Skill Level: Suitable for beginners and those with some prior paddling experience

Key Skills

• Identifying river features and hazards
• Learning basic rescue techniques
• Practising safe swimming techniques in moving water
• Understanding correct paddling practice
• Gaining confidence in self-rescue and assisted rescues

What to Expect

This course covers essential river safety and navigation skills in a practical, hands-on environment. The day begins with an introduction to river dynamics, helping you recognise key features such as eddies, currents, and potential hazards. You’ll then move on to basic rescue techniques, learning how to assist yourself and others in different river scenarios.

Swimming techniques in moving water will be practised under controlled conditions, giving you the experience needed to handle unexpected situations. You’ll also work on paddling techniques that improve your control and efficiency on the water. Throughout the day, instructors will provide guidance and feedback, ensuring you leave with a stronger understanding of river safety and the confidence to navigate moving water responsibly.

Location

Set in Perthshire, this course takes place on a scenic section of river that provides the perfect environment for learning. The location offers a mix of gentle moving water and small features, making it an ideal setting to practise skills in a controlled but realistic environment. 

Easily accessible, it serves as a great introduction to paddling on moving water for those based in Scotland and beyond.

Prerequisites

Participants should have basic paddling experience, but no prior moving water experience is required. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, as the course involves swimming in a river and practising rescues. 

If you have any medical conditions that may affect your participation, please inform us in advance.

Why Choose Us

With highly qualified instructors and a passion for river safety, this course is designed to give you the skills and confidence to explore moving water safely. All our guides hold IRF (International Rafting Federation) and Rescue 3 qualifications, ensuring expert instruction throughout the session.

Unlike larger operators, we focus on small group sizes, allowing for a more personalised experience. Safety and enjoyment are our priorities, and we take the time to tailor the course to the needs of each participant. Whether you’re new to river paddling or looking to improve your skills, this session provides a solid foundation for safe and enjoyable adventures on the water.