Surf Kayaking Development Week

This course is ideal for anyone interested in surf kayaking, whether you’re a complete beginner or an intermediate paddler looking to enhance your skills. You should have some paddling experience in other disciplines (such as sea kayaking, white water kayaking, or SUP), but no previous surf kayaking experience is necessary. The course will be tailored to your skill level, helping you progress whether you're just getting started or refining your technique.

We encourage participants to bring their own surf kayaking equipment, including a surf kayak, paddle, buoyancy aid, helmet, and any additional personal gear. However, if you don’t have your own equipment, we offer hire options at £30 per day. Please let us know in advance if you need to hire gear, so we can ensure it's ready for you.

You’ll be paddling in a variety of surf conditions along the coastlines of Cornwall and Devon. These locations offer everything from small, beginner-friendly waves to more challenging surf environments. We aim to provide a diverse range of conditions to suit your development and push your skills. Our expert coaches will ensure safety is a top priority, choosing suitable locations each day based on the current weather and surf forecasts.

Each day typically starts at around 9am and finishes by 5pm, with a mix of on-water practical sessions, theory, and group debriefs. Mornings are often focused on foundational skills and rescue techniques, while afternoons might include more advanced manoeuvres and practice in different surf environments. The exact schedule will vary based on surf conditions, but each day will provide ample time to progress your skills.

Surf kayaking can be physically demanding, especially in more challenging surf conditions. While the course is designed to accommodate all skill levels, you should have a reasonable level of fitness and be comfortable spending extended periods on the water. If you have any concerns about the physical demands of the course, please get in touch, and we can discuss how best to prepare.

We carefully monitor weather and surf conditions throughout the week. If conditions at one location are unsuitable, we will move to an alternative beach or coastline to ensure a safe and productive learning environment. Our coaches are experienced in adapting to different conditions and will ensure you still gain valuable experience, regardless of the weather. In rare cases of extreme weather, we may adjust the schedule accordingly.

A key part of the course focuses on surf-specific rescue techniques. You’ll learn how to perform self-rescues, assist other paddlers, and handle situations where things don’t go to plan in surf conditions. These skills are essential for building confidence and ensuring your safety on the water. We tailor the rescue training to suit various skill levels, so whether you’re new to surf kayaking or have some experience, you’ll leave the course with improved safety knowledge.

The course will be held along the beautiful coastlines of Cornwall and Devon, renowned for their stunning beaches and reliable surf. We will use a variety of locations to provide different wave conditions, allowing you to experience diverse surf environments. The specific locations will depend on weather and surf conditions, ensuring you get the best possible learning experience each day.

No, accommodation is not included in the course fee. However, we can assist in organising shared accommodation with other participants, such as local bunkhouses or lodges, to keep costs down. You’re welcome to arrange your own accommodation if preferred. If you need any help finding suitable accommodation near the course locations, feel free to contact us for recommendations.

Yes, please bring your own packed lunches, snacks, and water each day. While there may be opportunities to purchase food locally, we recommend packing enough to stay energised for long days on the water. It’s important to bring plenty of water, as you’ll be physically active throughout the week.

Throughout the week, you’ll receive personalised coaching from our team of experienced instructors, led by Andrew. Each day includes individual feedback sessions, group debriefs, and ongoing support to ensure you progress at a comfortable pace. Our coaching approach is tailored to your development, whether you need help mastering the basics or are fine-tuning advanced skills.

We strive to make our courses as inclusive as possible. If you have specific learning needs, physical limitations, or require any reasonable adjustments, please get in touch with us ahead of time so we can discuss how to best accommodate you. We are committed to providing a safe, supportive environment where everyone can enjoy and benefit from the course.