Learn to Kayak - Adult Explore Award

Things have changed! British Canoeing, the governing body for kayaking and paddlesports, have improved the pathways for young people and adults for learning how to kayak. The NEW "Discover Award" and "Explore Award" aim to simplify the journey from first stepping foot in a kayak, to becoming a knowledgeable, safe and independent kayaker.

What is the Explore Award?

If you want to become independent on the water, go on self-guided adventures and know how to control your craft and stay safe on the water, this is the award for you. With this award, you will take ownership of your own decisions and learn to make confidence choices, based on the places you paddle. The Explore Award is the progressive award of the Discover Award. If you've never been paddling before, it might be worth starting with the Discover Award

Who is it for?
This course is for young people and adults aged 13 and over looking to progress their kayaking. Younger enthusiasts looking to learn to kayak may wish to take a look at our youth kayaking courses. Click HERE for more information, dates of our courses and to book.

How long is the course?

We run this course as a series of evening sessions or over two days. The recommended time to complete the course is between 12 and 14 hours including an assessment. For a list of specific dates and timings of a particular course, please select the highlighted dates on the calendar. If no calendar exists, we are always happy to run a course specifically tailored to your availability, just give us a call.
Please note, each highlighted date on the calendar is the start date of each course.

Are there any prerequisites?

Yes, participants must have completed the Discover Award. Completion of the old "British Canoeing 1* Personal Competence Award" is also acceptable certification to enrol on the Explore Award.

What will you learn?

There's a strong emphasis on independence with this award, and the Explore award will fill in the gaps of knowledge that may exist so you can get out paddling safely on an adventure! The award covers areas like:

On the water etiquette and how to share the space with other water users
Different environments you can paddle (lakes, rivers, canals, estuaries)
Controlling your kayak, canoe or SUP safely
Clothing and equipment needs for different environments and weather
Safe exploration

Do I get a certificate?

Yes. The course includes an assessment which will take place toward the latter end of the course. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive an "e-certificate". Make sure to register your email address correctly upon booking to ensure you receive your certificate!

What should I bring?

We will provide all the equipment including all personal safety equipment. We recommend appropriately gripped water shoes or trainers, light sportswear, trousers/shorts or swimming shorts, a waterproof/windproof jacket, additional top layers and of course, spares of everything! Wetsuits can be appropriate but only for planned wet sessions.

How much does it cost? £140 per person. This includes the cost of assessment and certification.

What's next?

Completed your Explore Award? Great! Check out our Adult Kayak Club