Estuary SUP & Bushcraft Experience

LEARN TO STAND UP PADDLE BOARD!

With the correct safety advice and instruction, stand up paddle boarding is quick and easy to learn. First, our instructors teach you the basics, then the tour sets off with a relaxing paddle along the scenic Gannel estuary before switching you over to survival mode! Most of our SUP groups begin paddling on their knees, advancing to a stand up position when they feel safe and confident to do so.

Our River SUP & Bushcraft Tour has been designed to teach you many core skills including how to launch and land, stand up and balance, hold your paddle, perform basic strokes and how to make directional changes.

There is absolutely no pressure on our River SUP & Bushcraft Tour; feel free to enjoy the session from the comfort of your board, or give standing up a go – it’s entirely up to you! Our experienced instructors are there to help whatever your skill level may be.

DISCOVER THE GANNEL ESTUARY

After going through some basics on the river bank – safety, SUP kit and paddling techniques – you’ll hit the water. Putting those land-learned techniques into practice, you’ll follow your instructor’s lead as they point out the Gannel Estuary’s key features.

From tree-lined banks that rare UK wading birds call home, to the remains of an old shipyard – there’s something to capture everyone’s imagination. Gaze in wonder at the sleepy scenes and tranquil atmosphere as you paddle to Penpol Creek – an oasis of calm hidden away from Newquay’s energetic buzz!

LEARN ESSENTIAL BUSHCRAFT SKILLS

Next, it’s time to find out if you’ve got what it takes to be the next Bear Grylls! Imagine you’re stranded in the woods at Penpol Creek – not just for the duration of your tour, but overnight. You have no shelter and only the land at your disposal. Could you build a fire and forage from the land?

Our experienced instructors will guide you through some basic but essential bushcraft skills. You’ll learn what types of material you need to start a fire, and what to look for if twigs and branches are wet. Our instructors will show you the art of splitting kindling and how to start a fire with just one spark. Will you meet the challenge?

In the eerily calm atmosphere of the woods, your instructor will share spooky tales of hauntings and history from the Gannel Estuary. You’ll toast marshmallows over the fire and take a quick ride on the rope swing before retrieving your SUP and heading back to Newquay Activity Centre.