LEARNING THE FUNDAMENTALS

Our travelling HQ (the Newquay Activity Centre van) will provide a nomadic base from which you will receive your kayak equipment and safety brief. Set up on the banks of the estuary, you will admire a backdrop of stunning scenery whilst kitting up in a Rip Curl wetsuit, buoyancy aid, rash vest and helmet.

After grabbing a paddle and a kayak, your experienced instructor will lead you in the basics of paddle strokes, kit familiarity, water safety and signals – finishing with a short warm-up before heading down to the water.

STUNNING SCENERY

The River Gannel meets the sea on the sweeping sands of Crantock Beach. This vast expanse is at your disposal for discovering wildlife and learning skills under the expert eye of your kayak instructor.

You’ll navigate your crafts from the banks of the Gannel and paddle with the tide, through blue water lagoons and under overhanging trees whilst soaking up the setting in a peaceful coastal adventure. 

SPECIAL WILDLIFE

The basic skills of kayaking are simple to pick up and easy to perfect as you paddle along the Gannel, sheltered from the swell of Newquay’s Atlantic beaches. The salt marshes and sand banks of the stunning Gannel Estuary provide a unique habitat for Newquay’s bird life.

It’s a fragile and protected area home to an array of marine wildlife that you are guaranteed to see from your kayak. Otters and Kingfishers have been spotted in the area and the local seals occasionally swim through to say hi!

HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Myth and legend are rife along Newquay’s coastlines, from pirates to witch-hunts; there’s a story in every cove. During your kayaking adventure you’ll discover Penpole Creek, once known as the Port of Truro, where goods would be sailed in and transported to the southern coast of Cornwall. The remains of the quay and the moorings of small sailing boats are still visible today if you know where to look.

Listen out for the Crake, a haunting cry heard day and night that’s said to be the sound of a thousand human souls. The legend lives on and is an exciting story to take home.

Despite the mythical noises, this stretch of river is known as ‘Millionaire’s row’ – and for good reason. The properties that overlook the estuary benefit from epic sweeping views of blue lagoons, golden sand banks and rolling green hills. Not a bad view to wake up to in the morning! Come and experience for yourself the incredible setting of the Gannel.

Newquay Activity Centre takes kayaking seriously; we have the qualifications and experience to consistently maintain a high level of safety and fun. We are a two-time Gold winner at the Cornwall Tourism Awards and a Gold award winner at the South West Tourism Awards. Our kayak lessons and adventures in Newquay are days-out to remember!

With safety at the forefront of our lessons, we must advise that children under the age of 8 are welcome to kayak with us but they should be accompanied by an adult and book onto a Private or Family Kayak Tour.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS EXTREME WEATHER?

We are super fortunate to operate our river activities in the shelter of the Gannel Estuary. We choose the tide and weather times that deliver the very best conditions for kayak tours. However, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature and sometimes she may have different plans for us. We always check the forecasted conditions but if the wind or swell picks up unexpectedly, we may need to change the time or location of your tour. Alternatively, we can move your booking onto a different activity, safe from unsuitable or dangerous kayak conditions.

Over 95% of our tours go ahead unaffected by the weather but, in the unlikely event that this does happen, we have excellent back-up options for you to choose from. If we need to amend your kayak booking due to adverse weather, we will let you know in advance. (No need to call us). We appreciate your understanding.

NEWQUAY ACTIVITY CENTRE

Our purpose-designed centre, conveniently located near Towan beach, is your one-stop shop for ocean adventure activities in Newquay. We’re not in the business of just making a quick buck. When you book with Newquay Activity Centre, you get the care, attention, knowledge and feedback that you need.

On site we have hot outdoor showers, heated changing rooms, lockers, separate male and female toilets and clothing storage. We also have a hire centre for all of your needs after your lesson. Extend your days fun and check out our hire equipment.

Book online today or contact us via our online chat where our friendly team will be more than happy to answer your questions. Book tomorrow’s activity today!