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White water introduction

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Get your first taste of moving water on this exciting half-day introduction to white water kayaking. Based on the River Stour in Christchurch, this session is all about learning the core skills to paddle safely and confidently in flow — from understanding how the river moves to controlling your kayak in current.



You’ll spend the session at a natural weir with a single rapid, learning to use the water to your advantage. It’s the perfect way to build foundations before stepping into full river trips or more advanced white water courses.

When & Where

📍 Location: River Stour, Christchurch
📆 Availability: Autumn–spring season, scheduled dates and private bookings
⏱ Duration: 3 hours
💷 Price: £45 per person


How to Book

✅ Book online through our course calendar
💬 Contact us in advance to discuss boat availability and reserve your space
👥 Private Groups: 1:1 or small group sessions available — get in touch for pricing and dates

Ideal For

  • Paddlers ready to take their first steps into moving water
  • Suitable for those with flat-water experience looking to progress
  • Great introduction before joining full-day river trips or development courses
  • No prior white water experience required


What’s Included

  • Coaching with an experienced coach
  • Technical instruction and on-water support
  • Helmets, buoyancy aids, paddles, and safety kit
  • Access to a limited fleet of river kayaks (please contact us early to secure a boat)
  • Wetsuits and cags available if needednd support

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about our discover paddleports sessions? Check out our FAQs to find the answers you need!

  • Do I need any experience?

    You should be confident paddling on flat or sheltered water, but no prior white water experience is needed.

  • Where exactly is the session held?

    We’re based at Iford Weir on the River Stour in Christchurch, a natural weir with one small rapid — ideal for beginners learning in a safe, controlled environment.

  • What will I learn?

    You’ll be introduced to moving water, ferry gliding, and breaking in and out of flow — essential skills for safe river paddling.

  • Is equipment provided?

    Yes, all safety kit is included. Boat numbers are limited, so please contact us in advance to confirm availability or discuss bringing your own.

  • What’s next after this course?

    Progress to our White Water Development Days or take a Paddlesport Safety & Rescue Course to build confidence and broaden your river skills.

Have more questions? Feel free to reach out to us directly. We're here to help you embark on your adventure!

Came on the 3 hour sea kayaking introduction. Had a great time, achieved all that I expected and more, always love courses so much more when the instructor's are obviously passionate about what they do.

Had a lovely 3 hour kayak tuition session on the river at Beaulieu today. Ellen, our instructor, kitted us out and went through the basics before getting us on the water. We were a group of 4 adults with little or no experience of kayaks or canoes and Ellen very quickly had us paddling forwards, turning left and right and stopping etc. We were guided along the river, learning about the local wildlife and history of this beautiful setting. A really relaxing experience with an engaging instructor and pretty good weather to boot! Highly recommend!

Great session covered everything we needed to get going, enjoy lots of adventures since then. Instructor Leander was amazing, the session was well paced and so useful!