What types of kayaking do you offer?
At Gloucester Canoe Club we take part in three main disciplines:
Touring
Touring involves paddling mainly on flat water, including rivers, canals, lakes, estuaries and occasionally the sea. It is a great way to explore different waterways while developing paddling skills and fitness.
White Water Kayaking
White water kayaking takes place on faster-flowing rivers with rapids and other river features. Activities include river running, play boating and surfing.
Marathon Racing
Marathon racing takes place on flat water over a variety of distances. Race length and difficulty vary depending on a paddler’s ability and racing division.
What Types of Kayak do you use?
Different disciplines require different boats:
- Recreational paddling: Closed cockpit kayaks.
- Touring: Sea kayaks and Touring kayaks, which are longer boats designed to travel efficiently and cover longer distances.
- White Water: Shorter, more maneouvrable boats designed to respond quickly on moving water.
- Racing: Lightweight, narrow boats built for speed and efficiency.
Do you offer introductory sessions?
Yes. We normally run introductory courses twice a year, beginning in April and again in June/July.
If you miss these sessions, you are welcome to attend our winter pool sessions to begin learning basic paddling skills ahead of the spring season.
After completing approximately four or five introductory sessions, paddlers can progress into discipline-specific training to develop their skills, knowledge, confidence and fitness.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Yes. Members must be able to swim and be comfortable entering the water.
All paddlers are taught how to perform a safe capsize and exit their kayak. We practise capsize drills in a swimming pool in a controlled environment, with support available if required.
What other training courses are available?
The club regularly runs subsidised Outdoor First Aid courses and encourages all members to attend.
We also support members wishing to undertake safety, rescue, leadership and coaching qualifications. Qualified coaches and leaders are essential to the club, and we actively encourage members to develop these skills.
Do I need to buy my own equipment?
Not for the introductory sessions. The club has a range of boats and equipment available for beginners to use while learning. These are basic so you will need to buy your own person paddling kit as soon as you can (eg suitable footwear, paddling specific tops and bottoms, buoyancy aid and helmet) You will also need a way of transporting boats, usually roof bars for your vehicle. You will need to purchase your own boat, paddle and spray deck within a few weeks of the initial sessions. Where possible, members share transport to reduce costs and environmental impact.
There is a thriving second-hand market, particularly through paddlesport Facebook groups, and club members are always happy to advise on suitable purchases.
How much time do I need to commit?
Kayaking is a rewarding sport, but it requires regular participation to develop and maintain skills, fitness and confidence.
Many paddling opportunities involve travelling to waterways across the region, with some venues two to three hours away. Like any sport, progress comes from regular practice.
As a volunteer-run club, we also rely on members helping at events and supporting club activities.
Do you organise social events?
Yes. We have a friendly and active social calendar, including:
- Annual barbecure.
- Club meals.
- Weekend trips away.
- Skittles evenings.
- Other social gatherings throughout the year.
Is boat storage available?
Limited storage is available for active club members who cannot store their boats at home.
Boat storage spaces are prioritised for active paddlers and are not available simply as a storage facility. A small annual fee applies.
When does the club meet?
Summer Season (April to September)
Tuesday evenings are used for introductory sessions, coaching, training and recreational paddling.
Winter Season
Pool sessions take place on the third Monday of each month.
Racing Training
Racers typically train on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings, with many undertaking additional training sessions throughout the week.
Otherwise we meet for trips at the weekend.
Where can I find more information about kayaking?
Paddle UK is the national governing body for paddlesport and provides a wealth of information on kayaking, canoeing, qualifications and safety.
Gloucester Canoe Club is affiliated with Paddle UK, and part of your membership fee supports the work of the governing body.
Can complete beginners join?
Absolutely. Many of our members had no previous paddling experience before joining. Our introductory sessions are designed for beginners and provide a safe and supportive environment in which to learn.
What should I wear?
For beginners, thermals, fleeces and wetsuits are ideal. Avoid cotton where possible and bring a change of clothes, a towel and suitable footwear for getting in and out of the water.
Members will receive more specific kit advice as they progress.
Are buoyancy aids and helmets provided?
Yes. The club provides buoyancy aids and any specialist safety equipment required for introductory sessions.
What is the minimum age to join?
We don’t currently have a junior section or junior activities. Age requirements vary depending on the activity and the availability of appropriate supervision.
Can I try kayaking before becoming a member?
Yes, we recommend you come along to a pool session. To join the intro sessions you need to join the club to cover the cost of these and use of equipment.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety always comes first. Activities may be altered, relocated or cancelled if weather or water conditions make paddling unsafe.
How do I become a member?
You can contact the club through the website or visit an introductory session. We will explain the membership process and help you decide which activities are right for you.
Do I need my own transport?
Not necessarily, however not all trips start from the clubhouse and available space on cars may be limited. Many members do share lifts and transport boats together when travelling to paddling venues, although having access to a vehicle can make attending some trips easier.