liquid-logistics

Steve Joins the P&H Sea Kayaks Team

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:23:45 GMT

A new chapter for Liquid Logistics, built on years of passion, paddling, and British boatbuilding.

For more than a decade, P&H Sea Kayaks have been part of my journey as a paddler, coach, and guide. Their boats have carried me across tidal races, around headlands, into sheltered coves, and through some of the most memorable moments I’ve had on the water.

So I’m incredibly proud — and genuinely humbled — to share that I’ve been welcomed into the P&H Sea Kayaks Team.

This is something I’ve admired from afar for years, and now to be part of the team behind some of the most iconic British-built kayaks in the world feels pretty surreal.

�� Why P&H Means So Much to Me

P&H isn’t just a kayak brand — it’s heritage, innovation, and trust built into every layer of composite. Their boats are designed for real environments and real paddlers, from calm coastal journeys to stronger, spicier conditions where equipment truly matters.

I’ve always connected with that philosophy:
boats built by paddlers, for paddlers.
And from a coaching point of view, their designs help people progress safely, naturally, and confidently at every stage of their paddling journey.

Joining the team feels less like a “sponsorship” and more like becoming part of a family I’ve been paddling with for years.

�� What This Means for Liquid Logistics

This isn’t just a personal milestone — it’s something that strengthens what we offer at Liquid too.

Being part of the P&H team means:

You’ll see more P&H boats on our courses, expeditions, and content

I’ll be able to provide more detailed insight into boat fit, design, selection, and performance

Liquid paddlers will experience the kind of kit trusted by coaches, explorers, and guides across the UK

I’ll be working closely with P&H to create content, photography, and reviews that help paddlers make confident choices

It reinforces Liquid’s mission of offering premium, progressive coaching on the South Coast and beyond

And of course — I’ll still be supporting my friends at Hou Canoes for open-boat adventures. Both sides know this and both have been brilliant about it.

�� Why This Matters Personally

This isn’t something that simply “happened.”
It’s come from years of:

pushing my own paddling

developing as a coach

capturing photos and video on the water

sharing honest stories

and putting everything I have into helping people enjoy the ocean

I’ve always believed in letting your work speak louder than you do. Being invited into the P&H family feels like that work has been seen — and that means a lot.

�� Looking Ahead

I’m excited to represent a brand I genuinely believe in, keep creating content that showcases these brilliant kayaks, and continue growing Liquid alongside the values that brought us here.

There’s a lot more to come — from new adventures to fresh videos, spicy tidal races, and big coastal miles in the boats I trust most.

Aloha,
Steve

We've Joined the Surfers Against Sewage Ocean Network!

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 13:14:39 GMT

Our commitment to cleaner seas, healthier coastlines, and protecting the places we paddle.

At Liquid Logistics, the ocean isn’t just where we work — it’s where we feel most alive.
It’s where friendships form, confidence grows, and stories get written through salt water, tides, and long journeys along wild coastlines. With every paddle stroke, we’re reminded of how much the sea gives us — and how much we owe in return.

That’s why we’re incredibly proud to share that Liquid Logistics is now an official member of the Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) Ocean Network.

This partnership is a natural extension of our Ocean Promise: to step up, protect the places we paddle, and make environmental stewardship part of everything we do.

�� Why We Joined the Ocean Network

For years we’ve talked about “kuleana” — the Hawaiian value of responsibility and respect for the natural world. It’s something we carried home from our travels and something we try to weave into the way we coach, guide, and interact with the sea.

SAS embodies that same spirit.

They fight to protect UK waters from sewage pollution, harmful plastics, and environmental damage — and they empower communities like ours to be part of real change.

Joining the network wasn’t a marketing move. It was the obvious step forward.

�� What This Means for Liquid Logistics

Being part of the SAS Ocean Network means:

£1 from every booking goes directly to Surfers Against Sewage
We’ll support SAS campaigns such as “I’m Not A Bather”, raising awareness around the current legal loopholes that harm water users
We’ll be running on-the-water litter collections, shoreline clean-ups, and encouraging paddlers to spot, record, and report pollution
We’ll weave environmental awareness into our coaching — not as lectures, but as moments of connection and respect while we’re out exploring the coast
We’ll use our social platforms to help amplify important messages around water quality, plastic pollution, and ocean protection

For us, it’s simple: If we’re going to enjoy these waters, we have to help look after them.

�� How You Can Get Involved

Every paddler who joins us is already contributing through the £1 donation per booking, but there’s more you can do if you’re keen:

Join the “I’m Not a Bather” campaign
Take part in local SAS beach cleans
Record water quality issues through SAS tools
Reduce single-use plastics on trips and expeditions
Share SAS posts and resources to help spread awareness

Little actions, big impact — especially when a whole community gets behind them.

��️ Looking Ahead

This partnership marks the start of a bigger journey for Liquid Logistics: one where environmental action sits at the heart of who we are. Not as a gimmick, and not as a box-tick — but as a promise to the coastline that’s shaped us, inspired us, and given us so much.

We’re excited to work with SAS, support their mission, and help protect the wild blue places that mean the world to us and the people we paddle with.

Here’s to clean seas, healthy ecosystems, and the next generation of paddlers who’ll inherit them.

Aloha, Steve

How to roll a kayak

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 14:20:16 GMT

Demystifying the Kayak Roll — Turning the “Black Art” into a Skill You’ll Love

Rolling a kayak can feel mysterious — almost mythical — until you break it down step by step.

At Liquid Logistics, our (almost) famous rolling sessions have helped hundreds of paddlers master the roll. With over a decade of coaching experience and an exceptionally high success rate, we’ve refined a simple, confidence-building approach that gets results.

Rolling is one of those skills that feels incredible once it clicks — and we make sure that moment happens.

Learning to roll should be fun, not frustrating. Here’s how we break it down and help you get there.

Step 1: Get Comfortable Upside Down

Confidence starts with being relaxed underwater.

Spend time simply getting used to being upside down — holding your breath, staying calm, and trusting the boat.

Take it slow ; this is one of the most important stages of learning to roll.

Step 2: Find Your Bearings

Which way is up? Where’s forwards and backwards?

Learning your orientation underwater is key. We encourage paddlers to explore their full range of movement while inverted — it builds muscle memory and reduces panic when things don’t go to plan.

Step 3: Hips, Hips, Hips

All rolls start from the core.

Your hip flick (or hip snap) provides the power and finesse that brings the kayak upright. Practice this movement using another kayak, the pool edge, or a float before bringing the paddle into play.

A strong hip flick means a clean, effortless roll.

Step 4: Understand the Common Principles

Every roll — whether it’s a sweep, C-to-C, or hand roll — shares the same foundation: good body position, solid hip engagement, and a relaxed setup.

Once you understand those principles, learning to roll both sides (and experimenting with different techniques) becomes much easier.

Step 5: Paddle Practice

When you’re ready, it’s time to introduce the paddle.

Work with a partner who can guide and support the boat as you find your shape and timing.

Try both sides, stay patient, and revisit earlier steps as needed — it’s all part of building consistency.

Top Tips for Success

�� Practice in a pool — goggles are your best friend.
�� Warm up properly before each session.
�� Film your attempts — seeing your technique helps you improve faster.
�� Stay relaxed. A smooth roll is a confident roll.

Ready to Learn the Roll?

Join our rolling sessions — held in a warm indoor pool, designed to help you master your roll in comfort.

We’ll demystify the process, give you clear feedback, and make it a genuinely enjoyable experience.

 Book your pool rolling course now and make capsizes just another part of the adventure.

British Canoeing’s New Paddle Awards – What’s Changed and Why It Matters

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 12:21:57 GMT

How the new Personal Performance Awards are changing the way we recognise paddling skills.

British Canoeing have just announced a major shake-up of their award system — the long-standing Star Awards are being replaced with a brand-new suite of Personal Performance Awards.

The aim? To make the pathway simpler, more inclusive, and better suited to the way people actually paddle today.

A Fresh Approach to Paddling Awards

For decades, the 1–5 Star system helped paddlers develop their skills and confidence on the water. It was structured, progressive, and a great benchmark — but for many recreational paddlers, it felt a little formal and sometimes too focused on assessment.

The new Personal Performance Awards (PPAs) change that. They’re designed to recognise real-world paddling experience rather than testing it on one specific day.

Each award celebrates your personal development and enjoyment on the water, at your own pace, in your own craft.

The New Structure

There are now three core levels, each focused on personal growth rather than assessment:

�� Paddle Start & Discover Awards

The entry point for new paddlers. These awards introduce the fundamentals — understanding your kit, launching safely, and developing confidence on sheltered water.

�� Explore Award

Aimed at paddlers who want to venture a little further. It develops decision-making, planning skills, and confidence in varied conditions such as light wind or moving water.

�� Personal Performance Awards (by discipline)

Once you’ve found your paddling passion — whether that’s sea kayaking, canoeing, SUP, or white water — you can work towards an award in that specific environment.

These recognise your independence, awareness, and self-reliance while enjoying that environment safely and effectively.

Unlike the old star awards, there’s no pass/fail assessment — your skills are recognised naturally through coaching or observed paddling.

Why the Change?

The new structure reflects the wider paddling community — more diverse, more recreational, and more self-directed than ever.

It allows paddlers to:
✅ Choose the craft and environment they enjoy most
✅ Progress at their own pace
✅ Gain recognition for real, meaningful experience
✅ Build confidence before moving into leadership or coaching pathways

This move makes the sport more accessible and more relevant to the thousands of paddlers who simply love being on the water.

How It Fits with Leadership & Coaching

The Personal Performance Awards now sit alongside leadership and coaching qualifications rather than beneath them.

If you’re looking to progress towards awards like Paddlesport Leader or Coach Award, your PPA provides the foundation — a demonstration that you’re personally competent in your chosen environment.

Our Take at Liquid Logistics

The move to the Personal Performance Awards was a positive step toward making paddlesport more accessible and focused on enjoyment — and that’s something we fully support.

That said, many coaches and paddlers who grew up with the old Star Awards valued the structure and clarity those awards provided. The new syllabuses encourage flexibility and self-guided learning, but they can feel a little open-ended when it comes to the specific skills and standards required.

At Liquid Logistics, we’ve created our own structured syllabus from the Personal Performance Awards — giving our paddlers a clear framework to work through while keeping the spirit of exploration and personal progression that the new system was designed for.

Top Tip

If you’re already working towards a Star Award, don’t panic — your progress still counts!

British Canoeing have set up simple equivalency routes so you can transition into the new structure without starting over.

And if you’re new to paddling, now’s a perfect time to get involved — the awards are easier to access, more relevant, and a fantastic way to track your own development.

Ready to take your next step?

Join us at Liquid Logistics for Personal Performance Award courses in Canoe, Sea Kayak, and White Water.

Learn at your own pace, gain confidence on the water, and enjoy paddling the way it’s meant to be — with purpose, safety, and adventure.

What to take when paddling

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 11:28:02 GMT

What to Take Kayaking – Our Essential Kit Guide

Whenever we head out for a paddle, having the right equipment is key — not just for comfort, but for safety too. Equally, you don’t want to weigh yourself down with half your garage in the boat. Packing smart makes your day smoother, safer, and way more enjoyable.

So, what do we take — and where do we put it all?

Here’s our personal guide to making equipment-carrying second nature, without the faff. As with everything in paddling, your kit depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going — but these basics will see you right.

Personal Equipment

Buoyancy Aid (BA)
Your most important piece of kit. No matter how strong a swimmer you are, always wear one. A BA keeps you afloat during rescues, adds warmth, and gives you somewhere to stash a snack or whistle. Think of it like a seatbelt — it’s not about your confidence, it’s about safety.

Cagoule (Cag)
Spray tops, semi-dry, full-dry — there’s a version for every condition. Hoods and fleece-lined pockets are brilliant for sea kayaking; short sleeves are perfect for summer river days.

Wetsuit
A solid starting point — warm, comfy, and affordable. Long-john styles are great for paddling, keeping your core warm while allowing freedom of movement around the shoulders.

Dry Suit
Pricey, yes — but if you’re on the water regularly, they’re worth every penny. Full-body protection from the elements with latex wrist and neck seals keeps you dry and toasty no matter the conditions.

Base Layers
Rash vests and synthetic thermals wick away moisture and keep you warm, even when wet. Wool also works well, but it takes longer to dry. Avoid cotton — it stays cold and heavy once soaked.

Spray Deck
Nylon decks are great for beginners — easy to release and less claustrophobic. Neoprene decks fit tighter, keeping more water out, and are perfect once you’re rolling confidently.

Footwear
Choose something sturdy enough for slippery riverbanks or rocky coastlines, but slim enough to fit comfortably inside your boat. Wetsuit boots or neoprene shoes with solid soles work a treat, especially in winter.

Headwear
If there’s any risk of bumping your head, wear a helmet — especially on white water or surf. For touring and sea paddling, it’s a personal call, but one you’ll only get wrong once.

Personal Safety Kit

First Aid & Safety Gear
A small first aid kit is always worth carrying — plasters, tape, and antiseptic wipes for scrapes and cuts. Add a spare hat, gloves, and fleece for warmth, plus a group shelter for bad weather. Bright colours help attract attention if you need it.

Food & Water
Even a short paddle burns more energy than you think. Pack water, a snack, and maybe a flask in cold weather — nothing beats a hot drink after a swim!

Communication
Everyone has a phone — keep yours in a waterproof case. Always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. If you’re out longer or on the sea, consider a VHF radio (with the proper licence).

Scenarios

Sea Kayaking Day Trip

VHF radio: To contact the Coastguard or check the weather.
Flares: For emergency signalling in poor visibility.
Bilge pump: To empty water after rescues.
Tow line: Handy for helping others or holding kit.
Spare paddle: In case yours breaks or drifts away.
Chart & tide info: Essential for navigation and landing points.
Compass: Always carry one — batteries can die, but bearings don’t.
Repair kit: Multi-tool, duct tape, or flash band can fix almost anything.
Lighting: Head torch or glow sticks for low-light paddling.

White Water Day Trip

Guidebook: Tells you grades, access, and portages.
OS Map: Know your surroundings and escape routes.
Throw line & knife: If you carry rope, carry a knife — always.
Spare splits: Compact paddles that pack inside your boat.
Pinning kit: Slings and karabiners for recovering stuck boats.

SUP Touring – River

Quick-release waist leash: A must for any moving water, allowing you to detach safely in flow.
Waterproof phone case: Clip it to your PFD or deck bungee for easy access.
Dry bag or deck bag: Store snacks, a small first aid kit, and a spare layer.
Footwear: Neoprene shoes or lightweight trainers for comfort on landings and portages.
Tow line or short cord: For helping a tired paddler or towing your board if you need to walk a section.
Warm layer or windproof jacket: You’ll feel the chill faster standing up — pack accordingly.
Small repair kit: A patch or valve tool can save your session if your board starts leaking.

SUP / Inflatable Kayak – Open Water (e.g. Studland Bay)

Ankle leash: Suitable for open water or estuary paddling where there’s minimal flow.
Buoyancy aid: Always — even for confident swimmers.
Mobile phone or VHF: In a waterproof case, attached to your PFD or board.
Wind awareness: Offshore winds can be dangerous; plan to paddle into the wind first and return with it behind you.
Chart or local map: Know your landmarks and potential exit points.
Anchor point or tow line: Handy for rest stops or assisting others.
Sun protection: Even mild days can catch you out — hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe suncream are essential.
Hydration & snacks: Touring boards have plenty of space — make use of it!

How to Pack

Dry bags are your best friend — small, sealable, and easy to cram into spare spaces. Lots of little bags are better than one big one. Make sure they’re clipped to your boat or board so nothing disappears downstream.

Weight balance: Spread gear evenly. In sea kayaks, keep slightly more weight forward to help tracking and control. On SUPs, centre the weight between your feet to maintain stability.

Quick access: Keep lunch, hat, and essentials in a day hatch, deck bag, or bungee so you’re not unpacking your entire boat for a sandwich.

Top Tip

Go and have a try! The best way to learn what works for you is to get out there. Test your setup, adapt, and remember — every paddle teaches you something new.

Pack smart, stay safe, and keep paddling with care for the waters we call home. ��

What to consider when looking for a paddle

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 11:45:14 GMT

Choosing the Right Paddle – What to Consider Before You Buy

Selecting the right paddle can completely change how you feel on the water.

Get it right, and paddling feels smooth, efficient, and effortless. Get it wrong, and you could end up with sore wrists, aching shoulders, and a tiring day ahead.

Just like picking the right kayak, your paddle choice should reflect the type of paddling you do and your physical siz e. The key factors to think about are length, shaft size, blade shape, and construction. In my personal paddling opinion, the paddle is the most important part of your paddling kit.

Why It Matters

Paddling long-term with a paddle that’s too big can lead to repetitive strain injuries — think “kayaker’s elbow,” a cousin to tennis elbow.

If your paddle is too short, you’ll have to work harder and paddle faster to maintain speed, which can quickly burn you out.

The goal is to find a paddle that matches your paddling style, fits your body, and feels comfortable in your hands.

Paddle Basics

A paddle has two main parts: the shaft (the bit you hold) and the blades (the bits that move the water).

Different materials and shapes affect weight, flexibility, and feel — so it’s worth understanding the basics before you buy.

Paddle Length

Length is one of the most important choices — and often the first thing people get wrong.

As a rule:

Smaller paddlers → shorter paddles
Taller paddlers → longer paddles

But it also depends on the type of kayaking you do:

White Water & Freestyle: 180–200 cm (shorter = quicker strokes, better manoeuvrability)
Touring, Sea & Recreational: 190–230 cm (longer = more reach, lower stroke rate)

Shorter paddles give you a higher tempo, great for reacting quickly in flow.

Longer paddles give more leverage for smooth, efficient miles on open water.

Shaft Type & Size

Straight vs. Bent Shaft:

Straight shafts are lighter, simpler, and cheaper.
Bent (or cranked) shafts reduce wrist strain by keeping your hands at a more natural angle — they’re pricier but brilliant for comfort.

Shaft Thickness:

The thicker the shaft, t he more suited it is to larger hands. The right size should feel comfortable to grip without overreaching your fingers.

Blade Shape

Blade size and shape affect power, control, and efficiency:

Larger, chunkier blades: Great for powerful vertical strokes — perfect for slalom and white water.
Long, narrow blades: Better for a relaxed, lower-angle touring or sea kayaking stroke.

Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical:

Symmetrical blades are identical on both sides — great for beginners.
Asymmetrical blades are slight ly offset for smoother, more efficient paddling and reduced flutter (common in performance paddles).

Feather Angle:
This is the twist between blades. A feathered paddle means the blade in the air slices cleanly through the wind. Many modern touring paddles are adjustable, so you can set your preferred angle or even paddle unfeathered if you like.

Construction & Materials

Paddles range from simple plastic to high-end carbon fibre.

Plastic blades / aluminium shafts: Cheap, durable, and great for beginners — but heavier.
Fibreglass: Lighter, warmer to hold, and offers a bit of flex for comfort.
Carbon fibre: The lightest and stiffest — ideal for long days, but more strain on joints if sized incorrectly.
Wood: Classic, warm in the hands, and still popular for Greenland-style sea paddles and open canoes.

�� Pro tip: A lighter paddle reduces fatigue, but stiffness increases — so make sure your sizing and technique are dialled before going ultra-light.

Matching Paddle to Purpose

White Water Kayaking

Short shaft for quick acceleration and manoeuvrability
Large blades for instant power transfer
Strong, durable construction to handle impacts

Sea Kayaking & Touring

Longer shaft for reach and efficiency
Slimmer, elongated blades for a smooth, lower-angle stroke
Lightweight materials for long-distance comfort

Performance / Racing

Lightest build possible
Winged blades that “grip” the water and maximise power
Designed purely for forward efficiency — not for rescues or rolling

Try before you buy.
If possible, borrow or demo a few different paddles — your shoulders and wrists will thank you later. The right paddle feels like an extension of your arms: balanced, effortless, and efficient.

A well-chosen paddle can last you for years — and make every journey on the water more enjoyable.

Choosing the right boat for your paddling style

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 12:07:49 GMT

Choosing the right boat is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a paddler.

Just like bikes, boats are designed for specific environments and paddler sizes — each with its own strengths, quirks, and learning curve.

When choosing a boat, it’s all about finding one that suits you — not just what looks cool.

Ask yourself a few key questions:

Where am I going to paddle?
What kind of water or conditions will I use it in?
What do I enjoy most — exploring, surfing, white water, touring, racing?
What kit will I want to carry with me?
How might my paddling develop over time?

Answering those will narrow things down quickly. Below, we’ve broken down the main types of boats and what they’re best for.

Sit-On-Tops

A perfect starting point for new paddlers.
You sit on rather than in the kayak, making them incredibly stable and easy to climb back onto if you fall off.

Best for: calm rivers, estuaries, lakes, harbours, or gentle coastal exploring.

Why we love them: simple, durable, and safe.

Modern versions often include built-in storage, fishing rod holders, and even fish finders. Great for beginners, families, or anyone who just w ants to get on the water quickly and safely.

Touring Kayaks

Touring kayaks bridge the gap between sea kayaks and white water boats — true all-rounders.
Typically 10–12 feet long, they’re ideal for short journeys and relaxed exploring on rivers, canals, lakes, and sheltered sea areas.

Key features:

Comfortable and stable
Often fitted with hatches for storage
May have a rudder or skeg for better tracking
Great balance of speed, comfort, and control

Think of touring kayaks as your “go-anywhere” choice for mixed conditions.

Sea Kayaks

Long, s leek, and built for distance — sea kayaks are the original expedition machines.
Ranging from 15 to 18 feet, they’re designed for speed, tracking, and efficiency in open water.

Key features:

Hatches and bulkheads to store and protect gear
Deck lines for safety and kit attachment
Rudder or skeg for directional control in wind
V-shaped hull for excellent t racking and glide

Great for long coastal journeys, multi-day expeditions, and anyone chasing that feeling of freedom on the sea.

White Water Kayaks

Compact, strong, and incredibly manoeuvrable, white water boats are made to handle rapids, waves, and drops.

Key features:

Flat hulls for control, spins, and slides
Reinforced design for impact resistance
Grab handles and buoyancy aids built in
Designed for quick reactions, n ot straight lines!

Ideal for river adventures, play waves, and anyone who loves that lively, unpredictable side of paddling.

Traditional Canoes (Canadian Canoes)

Open-topped, graceful, and versatile — the canoe has a rich history stretching back centuries.
Paddled with a single-bladed paddle, often from a kneeling position, they’re incredibly stable and carry loads of kit.

Best for: rivers, lakes, and calm estuaries.

Great for: families, ove rnighters, or those who love a relaxed pace.

A classic craft that’s as good for gentle exploration as it is for proper wilderness travel.

White Water Canoes

These are the agile cousins of traditional canoes.

Shorter, more manoeuvrable, and designed for one paddler, they excel in fast-moving water.

Key features:

High bow and stern to punch through waves
Air bags essential to keep them buoyant if swamped
Often fitted with saddles and straps for stability and control

Tippy at first, but hugely rewarding once you find your balance.

Racing & Sprint Boats

Des igned purely for speed on flat water. Kayaks are labelled K1–K4, canoes C1–C4, depending on how many paddlers are in the boat.

Key features:

Long, narrow hulls for minimal drag
Elevated seating for powerful leg drive
Lightweight materials for maximum speed

These boats fly in a straight line — but they’re very tippy when you stop!

Play / Freestyle Kayaks

Short, playful, and designed for fun. Freestyle kayaks let you spin, surf, and flip on standing waves and river features.

Key features:

Super short for fast response
Flat hulls for tricks and spins
High-performance fit — not much comfort, but loads of control

Rolling is essential here — you’ll spend some time upside down before it all clicks!

Surf Kayaks

Purpose-built for the surf zone, these boats are designed to catch and carve waves with speed and precision.

Key features:

Narrow, planing hulls with fins for grip
High bow to prevent pearling (nose-diving)
Carves like a surfboard when handled well

Great fun, but not suited to flat water — they’ll feel twitchy without a wave beneath them.

Slalom Kayaks

Built for speed, agility, and control through gates on a moving river. Every gram and curve is designed for precision and acceleration.

Key features:

Sharp ends (“slicy” bow and stern) for carving tight turns
Lightweight build for quick reactions
Sleek, high-performance design

Think of them as the Formula 1 of white water boats.

Kayak Polo Boats

Fast, rounded, and super manoeuvrable. Kayak polo combines paddling skill with a five-a-side ball game played in deep water.

Key features:

Rounded hulls and scooped ends for diving under water
Foam bumpers front and back for safe collisions
Highly responsive — but extremely “tippy”

Built for agility, not comfort. You’ll flip often, and roll even more.

Top Tip

Match the boat to what you love doing. Are you drawn to calm rivers or crashing waves? Short bursts of action or long, peaceful journeys?

Try as many boats as you can — clubs, centres, and demo days are perfect for that.

Once you find the one that feels like an extension of you, you’ll know you’ve made the right choice.

Where to paddle in the UK

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 12:11:46 GMT

Where to Kayak in the UK – Understanding Access, Locations & How to Get Started

Great Britain has some of the most diverse and rewarding paddling in the world.
From calm canals and forest rivers to tidal estuaries and dramatic sea cliffs, our waterways are made to be explored — and there’s no better way to do it than from the seat of a canoe, kayak, or SUP.

That said, access to water in the UK can be a little more complicated than you might expect. Here’s a breakdown of how it all works — and where to get afloat safely and responsibly.

Understanding Access in the UK

We do love our red tape here in Britain — and waterways are no exception.
Unlike many countries, there isn’t an automatic right to paddle all inland waters in England and Wales . In simple terms:

Landowners who own the riverbank often claim ownership of the riverbed too.
Without a legal navigation right or agreement, access can be restricted.
Scotland , however, operates under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code , which allows responsible access to most rivers and lochs.

Tidal areas (estuaries and the sea) are open to everyone — you just need to be able to launch from a public area like a beach, slipway, or harbour.

If you’re unsure, PaddleUK’s Go Paddling website and the British Canoeing Access & Environment Hub are great starting points to check what’s permitted in your area.

Canals

Canals are a brilliant and safe starting point for anyone learning to paddle.

They’re calm, sheltered, and steeped in industrial history. Most were built for navigation, meaning you have a legal right to paddle them (with a valid waterways licence, such as the PaddleUK “On the Water” licence ).

Tips for canal paddling:

Avoid locks — walk around and re-launch below.
Keep to the right-hand side and give way to powered boats.
Be polite to anglers and share the towpath respectfully.

Ideal for beginners, families, and those looking for peaceful, easy miles.

Lakes & Reservoirs

If your nearest water is a lake or reservoir, you’re in luck — they’re perfect for beginners. Sheltered, scenic, and often with easy parking and access, they offer a great environment to build skills.

However, not all lakes are open to paddlers by default — ownership matters.

Quick tips:

Lakes: Check access rules — many are open to paddlers for a small fee.
Reservoirs: Contact the local water authority to ask about permitted launch sites.
Always rinse your kit before and after to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Rivers

Britain’s rivers are as varied as they come — from gentle meanders to fast-flowing white water.

Access, however, can be a grey area.

Some stretches have public navigation rights , often those used historically for trade.
Others are contested or private , meaning paddling may require landowner permission.

You can check current access arrangements, flow levels, and suggested routes using the PaddlePoints map — an excellent tool for exploring legally and safely.

River grades (1–6) indicate difficulty and danger:

Grade 1: Flat and slow-moving
Grade 2–3: Moderate, small waves, and some obstacles
Grade 4–6: Advanced, technical, and potentially dangerous

Always make sure you’re paddling within your skill level and conditions. When you’re ready to step up a grade, go with a qualified coach or leader.

Estuaries & Harbours

For many coastal paddlers, estuaries and harbours are the sweet spot — a blend of salt and freshwater environments packed with wildlife and beautiful scenery.

Key points:

Tidal waters are open to all.
Check tide times and wind forecasts — these areas can flow quickly at certain stages of the tide.
Some estuaries have strong currents or shipping channels; always plan ahead.

A fun fact: the Beaulieu River , home to Liquid Logistics, is the only privately owned tidal river in the UK. Paddlers need permission from the Harbour Master to use it — a rare exception to the open-access rule.

Estuaries and harbours are ideal for relaxed exploring, birdwatching, and developing confidence before venturing to open sea.

Sea Kayaking

If it’s sea kayaking that calls to you, you’re spoilt for choice. The UK coastline offers everything from calm bays to wild headlands, all packed with history and wildlife.

Favourite regions:

South Coast: The Solent, Isle of Wight, and the Jurassic Coast of Dorset
Wales: Pembrokeshire, Anglesey, and Cardigan Bay
Scotland: The West Coast, Skye, and the Summer Isles — some of the best paddling on the planet

Start with short, sheltered trips and build up to more committing journeys as your experience grows. Learn to read tides, weather systems, and navigation — seamanship is as important as paddle strokes.

Always carry a means of communication, wear suitable kit, and let someone know your plan before heading out.

Top Tips

Join a local club: You’ll find experience, guidance, and new paddling friends.
Check licences and permissions: Especially for rivers and reservoirs.
Plan ahead: Always have a Plan B if conditions change.
Stay within your limits: Learn, practise, and progress safely.

The key to great paddling is good decision-making — knowing when to go, where to go, and when to call it a day. Whether it’s your first splash on a calm canal or an expedition on the open sea, the UK’s waters are waiting to be explored.

Paddle smart, paddle safely — and keep caring for the waters we call home. ��

liquid-logistics

Steve Joins the P&H Sea Kayaks Team

We've Joined the Surfers Against Sewage Ocean Network!

�� Why We Joined the Ocean Network

�� What This Means for Liquid Logistics

�� How You Can Get Involved

��️ Looking Ahead

How to roll a kayak

Demystifying the Kayak Roll — Turning the “Black Art” into a Skill You’ll Love

Step 1: Get Comfortable Upside Down

Step 2: Find Your Bearings

Step 3: Hips, Hips, Hips

Step 4: Understand the Common Principles

Step 5: Paddle Practice

Top Tips for Success

Ready to Learn the Roll?

British Canoeing’s New Paddle Awards – What’s Changed and Why It Matters

How the new Personal Performance Awards are changing the way we recognise paddling skills.

What to take when paddling

What to Take Kayaking – Our Essential Kit Guide

Personal Equipment

Personal Safety Kit

Scenarios

Sea Kayaking Day Trip

White Water Day Trip

SUP Touring – River

SUP / Inflatable Kayak – Open Water (e.g. Studland Bay)

How to Pack

Top Tip

What to consider when looking for a paddle

Choosing the Right Paddle – What to Consider Before You Buy

Why It Matters

Paddle Basics

Paddle Length

Shaft Type & Size

Blade Shape

Construction & Materials

Matching Paddle to Purpose

Choosing the right boat for your paddling style

Choosing the right boat is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a paddler.

Sit-On-Tops

Touring Kayaks

Sea Kayaks

White Water Kayaks

Traditional Canoes (Canadian Canoes)

White Water Canoes

Racing & Sprint Boats

Play / Freestyle Kayaks

Surf Kayaks

Slalom Kayaks

Kayak Polo Boats

Top Tip

Where to paddle in the UK

Where to Kayak in the UK – Understanding Access, Locations & How to Get Started ﻿

Understanding Access in the UK

Canals

Lakes & Reservoirs

Rivers

Estuaries & Harbours

Sea Kayaking

Top Tips

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Where to Kayak in the UK – Understanding Access, Locations & How to Get Started