AN INTRODUCTION TO DITTONS PADDLE BOARDING CLUB

What is involved?

Fun, adventure, paddling, learning, great people, fun!

You will be given an on land safety briefing, then shown basic paddling strokes. We will then head onto the water where you will practise those strokes before starting your experience.

How do I book an adventure?

Use the BOOK A SESSION button and then scroll to your chosen adventure and click on it. Or alternatively, use the READ MORE & BOOK button under the specific session. You will be able to view the available dates and time for our adventures.

Do I need to sign anything?

Yes, you will need to complete an online health questionnaire and when you arrive for the lesson/adventure you will be asked to sign a waiver acknowledging your responsibilities whilst on the water. Here you will need to disclose any Health Information, that your coach needs whilst on the water with you, along with an emergency contact number for someone not on the water with you.

What time do I need to arrive?

Please make sure that you are with us at The Albany pub, by the riverside at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. This is to ensure that you have time to be checked in and be ready to start promptly.

Ensure that you allow enough travelling time to accommodate this and, if you choose to drive, enough time to find a parking space and still be with us at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals who miss the safety briefing for any session will forfeit their session.

I’d like to book a larger group of people. Is that possible?

We love hosting family celebrations, pre and post wedding adventures, birthdays, team away days and the like for groups of up to 20 people on stand up paddleboards. We also have our multi person mega and airship boards which are great fun for groups.  Simply get in touch by emailing paddle@dpbclub.co or you can call/message us on 07547917643 to discuss your desired experience.

Can I bring my son/daughter on a paddle boarding lesson?

If your child is over 12 then they can join a lesson. Under 18’s must have a legal parent/guardian with them on the water. If you would like to book a private session then we can accommodate younger children.

Is there an age limit for your adventures?

Yes, 12+ for lessons and under 18’s must be accompanied by a legal parent/guardian. Private sessions are available for younger children. Please ask for more information. We would ask you to consider if your child is both physically and emotionally strong enough to join our SUP Adventures/lessons.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is a car park at the Albany Pub. All we ask is that you buy a drink from them to say thank you for using their premises. You need to enter your car registration number into the console at the bar.

Where’s the nearest bus stop?

There is a bus stop on Queen’s Road. If you walk down to the end of the road you will find The Albany pub which is our base, we are at the back of the pub, riverside. It is a 2 minute walk.

I can’t find you at the Pub

We are situated at the back of the pub, riverside. You need to walk towards the far end of the car park and you will see a shed, nest to the pizza oven. This is us. We will be waiting for you.

What facilities are available at The Albany?

• Toilets and Changing facilities – There are toilets that you can use if the pub is open. If not you are more than welcome to change in our storage shed (it is nice and clean!)
• Parking for cars – Parking is available at the pub.
• Bicycles – We encourage all paddlers to walk or cycle to our adventures if possible. You can keep your bike in our locked storage area which is very secure.
• Storage – You may leave small bags and spare clothing with us in our storage shed during the session if you wish. This will be at your own risk.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Yes! You should be able to swim 25 metres (wearing a buoyancy aid and the clothes you’ll be paddling in) and be confident around the water. It is likely that you may end up in the river.

We provide PFD’s (personal floatation devices) that will keep you buoyant in the water if you do end up in it. These must be worn for the duration of your adventure. If you are a weak swimmer, please do let your instructor know so that they are aware of it.

Is all equipment supplied?

Yes, but only for lessons and guided adventure tours from our base at The Albany. We supply you with a top quality Red Paddle Company board, paddle, quick release waist leash and a Palm buoyancy aid. The only thing not supplied is a wetsuit. You need your own equipment for the socials. although our equipment is available to hire for some of our socials – please contact us by emailing paddle@dpbclub.co or you can call/message us on 07457917643 to enquire about equipment hire.

Can I bring my own board for lessons?

Yes, if you want to get experience on your own board by all means bring it along. Just allow enough time to inflate it before the lesson starts!

What should I wear?

Most people wear shorts, running tights or leggings, t-shirt and warm top depending on the weather. You must have footwear with you that you don’t mind getting wet. Wetsuit shoes are ideal, old trainers or flip-flops can also work (wear them to carry the board into the water and then tuck them under the elastic on the board). If it is particularly sunny, it is recommended that you wear sun-cream and a hat. Sunglasses are also good, but be aware that they can sink quickly so please attach a strap to them (we have a limited number of these that you can borrow when participating in our lessons) or bring an old pair.

Are wetsuits supplied?

No. You can either bring your own or find an outlet near by to hire if you feel you’ll need one.

Do I need to bring water?

Definitely! Bring in a bottle that can be secured under the straps on the board.

Do I need money?

Yes. We do launch from a pub so you might want to get a drink or even come back for something to eat. On our guided adventures we may stop at a riverside cafe or pub for a drink if time permits.

Should I bring spare clothes?

Definitely! Spare clothes and a towel are also recommended in case you go in the water as is a change of footwear because your feet are very likely to get wet.

Is it OK to take my phone with me?

Yes if you have a dry bag or a waterproof phone pouch (we have some of these available for you to use on our lessons). The coach can also take your phone in their dry bag but it will be at your own risk. If you take any pictures on your phone, don’t forget to tag us! @dpb_club on Instagram and Dittons Paddle Boarding on Facebook.