Canoeing
How do I get started?
First of all, you must be able to swim. If you can swim, the best way to get started in canoeing is to join a club. Visit the British Canoe Union website for a list of clubs.
How much does it cost?
You need a licence to paddle on the River Great Ouse, however if you are a member of the British Canoe Union then this will cover you.
Club subscriptions vary greatly – some charge less than £10 per year while more specialised clubs will charge in the region of £60.
Many clubs and companies offer hire canoes of different types, starting at around £30 per day, which includes the licence, paddle and other equipment.
If you want to buy your own canoe there is a wide range available starting at about £300. You will also need a paddle (from £30), buoyancy aid (from £35), and possibly a spraydeck (from £25).
Can I get lessons?
Some clubs provide basic training free of charge but other clubs may charge around £20 per hour for a private lesson.
Group training can be cheaper so it may be worth joining with other learners.
Can I do this as a family?
Canoeing is a great family activity. Many clubs cater for families and you can choose from single, two and generally up to four-seater canoes and kayaks.
Everyone can participate in canoeing, a wide range of ages can canoe and it has a strong 'veteran' (over 35) membership of both sexes.
Can I canoe if I have a disability?
There are many clubs based on the Great Ouse for people with disabilities. The British Canoe Union has more information and a list of suitable clubs.
I already have a canoe – can I just go out on my own?
If you own a canoe, you can take it anywhere on the River Great Ouse once you have registered it with the Environment Agency. You can buy a licence by calling the Anglian Craft Registration team on 08708 506 506. For further information visit the Registering your boat page.
What are the golden rules of canoeing?
- Don’t canoe if you can’t swim.
- Don’t try to correct a capsized canoe. Hang on to it until you are safely at the riverbank.
- Don’t put more people in a canoe than it is designed to carry.
- Don’t change places in a canoe.
- Don’t go out alone – three canoes are a safe minimum.
- Do keep away from weirs.
- Do ask about local conditions – tides, currents and weather conditions.
- Don’t have slack decklines.
- Don’t wear Wellington boots or heavy clothes.
- Keep well clear of other water users.
Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be.
What canoe clubs are there on the Great Ouse?
Cambridgeshire Canoeing Association
A county-based, informal group of canoeists who exist for mutual support and promoting canoeing in its widest sense. It is a British Canoe Union sub-committee.
More details: Cambridgeshire Canoeing Association or call May Block on 01223 311715 (Secretary).
Cambridge Canoe Club
More details: Email the club secretary Robert Bramley.
Huntingdon Canoe Club
A friendly club, accommodating most levels of paddler. Their interests vary from flat water basics to small tours, surfing, playboating and whitewater river running. They run several trips throughout the year as well as coaching sessions at Sawtry Swimming Pool throughout the autumn and winter.
More details: Call Gavin Walker on 01480 39181
Viking Kayak Club
This Bedford based club is currently the British Canoe Club of the Year 2009.
More details: Viking Kayak Club