Frequently Asked Questions
Our Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find the answers to our most frequently asked questions, however please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions – we are only too happy to help.
Boat Hire
Do you need to be able to swim?
You don’t need to be able to swim as buoyancy aids are provided.
Is there car parking on site?
Free car parking is available on site for the duration of your hire.
Do you have barrels / dry bags for hire?
We don’t have dry bags & barrels for hire but we do sell them in our shop at a very reasonable price.
Do you provide wetsuit shoes?
We don’t provide footwear but we would recommend wearing it. We do sell some very good value wetsuit shoes in our shop.
Do I need to wear a wetsuit?
You don’t need to wear a wetsuit but they are available at no extra cost when you hire a paddleboard.
Do you provide buoyancy aids?
Yes Buoyancy aids are provided or lifejackets for young children.
Can under 18's hire a boat?
Under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult on the water but you can be in separate craft.
How much experience do I need?
We don’t ask for a lot of experience for paddling just that you are confident that you can manage the boat on the water with the conditions on the day.
Can I hire a motor boat?
I’m afraid we don’t hire out motor boats but if you contact the Keswick Launch Company they should be able to help you.
Can I fish on the lake?
You need a Rod Licence and a local permit (available at Youdales in Keswick) to fish on the lake.
Can I take a dog on the water with me?
We are happy for you to take a dog on the water as long as you are happy the dog won’t capsize the boat.
Do you have safety cover?
We don’t have a safety boat out on the water but we will come and assist in an emergency.
What do we need to wear?
The best kit to wear on the water is usually sports clothing as it is warmer when wet and usually dries quickly. Cotton clothing can be uncomfortable when wet & isn’t great at keeping you warm!
Do you have a cafe?
We don’t have a café on site but their are a couple of cafes only a few minutes’ walk away.
Do you have a shop onsite?
We have a small shop selling watersports clothing, equipment & chandlery.
Tuition
Do you need to be able to swim?
You don’t need to be able to swim as buoyancy aids are provided.
Do you provide buoyancy aids?
Yes Buoyancy aids are provided or lifejackets for young children.
What equipment do you provide?
We provide all equipment for the session except footwear.
Do you have an age limit?
The only activity we have an age limit on is Ghyll scrambling which is 8 years or older but if you have a child under 8 it is worth giving us a call to discuss if the session is suitable for them. We have no upper age limit.
What is your maximum group size?
We have a maximum of 6 – 10 per Instructor depending on the activity.We have a maximum of 6 – 10 per Instructor depending on the activity.
What do we need to wear?
The best kit to wear on the water is usually sports clothing as it is warmer when wet and usually dries quickly. Cotton clothing can be uncomfortable when wet & isn’t great at keeping you warm!
What do we need to bring?
Swimming costume / shorts to wear under wetsuit
A pair of old trainers, old trousers/shorts, T shirt & fleece
Towel and a set of warm clothes to put on after activities
A wooly hat in spring and autumn
Peaked hat and sun cream in spring and summer
Food and drink for all day activities
£1 coin for a hot shower
What times are the sessions?
Our Morning sessions are between 9.30 – 12.30 and afternoon sessions are 13.30 – 16.30.
Do you have a cafe?
We don’t have a café on site but their are a couple of cafes only a few minutes’ walk away.
Do you have an AALA licence?
We hold an AALA licence and we and Royal Yachting Association & British Canoeing training centre.
Do you have a shop onsite?
We have a small shop selling watersports clothing, equipment & chandlery.
Are all your staff trained in the activities they are leading?
All our staff are trained in the activity they are leading – in many cases this has led to them holding the National Governing body award in the sport. Where this isn’t applicable they have an in-house approval.
What happens if the weather isn't suitable?
We can usually offer an alternative activity or date.
How do I know which course to choose?
If you are unsure which is the best course for you give us a call and we will happily discuss the options with you and help you decide what would be best for you.
How much time do you spend on the water?
Whilst most courses will have some theory, we will try to cover as much of the course as possible out on the water.
Will I end up with a qualification at the end of the course?
We will do our best to ensure that you get a qualification at the end of the course but as everyone learns at different speeds it may occasionally be necessary to do a few extra hours in order to complete it.
Group Activities
Do you need to be able to swim?
You don’t need to be able to swim as buoyancy aids are provided.
Do you provide buoyancy aids?
Yes Buoyancy aids are provided or lifejackets for young children.
What do we need to wear?
The best kit to wear on the water is usually sports clothing as it is warmer when wet and usually dries quickly. Cotton clothing can be uncomfortable when wet & isn’t great at keeping you warm!
What do we need to bring?
- Swimming costume / shorts to wear under wetsuit
- A pair of old trainers, old trousers/shorts, T shirt & fleece
- Towel and a set of warm clothes to put on after activities
- A wooly hat in spring and autumn
- Peaked hat and sun cream in spring and summer
- Food and drink for all day activities
- £1 coin for a hot shower
What times are the sessions?
Our Morning sessions are between 9.30 – 12.30 and afternoon sessions are 13.30 – 16.30.
Do you have a cafe?
We don’t have a café on site but their are a couple of cafes only a few minutes’ walk away.
Do you have an AALA licence?
We hold an AALA licence and we and Royal Yachting Association & British Canoeing training centre.
Do you have a shop onsite?
We have a small shop selling watersports clothing, equipment & chandlery.
Are all your staff trained in the activities they are leading?
All our staff are trained in the activity they are leading – in many cases this has led to them holding the National Governing body award in the sport. Where this isn’t applicable they have an in-house approval.
What happens if the weather isn't suitable?
We can usually offer an alternative activity or date.
Do you have an age limit?
The only activity we have an age limit on is Ghyll scrambling which is 8 years or older but if you have a child under 8 it is worth giving us a call to discuss if the session is suitable for them. We have no upper age limit.
Do you accept stag and hen parties?
Yes we can cater for all group types.
