Induction sessions

Inductions are a friendly welcome to the club and suitable for beginners. For £10 (plus booking fee), you will get two hours of induction and two additional visits before deciding whether to join our club.

Castle Canoe Club is a friendly volunteer-run members’ community group who are passionate about paddlesports whether it’s in a kayak, canoe or paddleboard. We offer a range of activities including canoe polo, sea kayaking, slalom or just floating chit chat. Our induction session is for anyone interested in learning to paddle with us. No prior experience necessary. You’ll be able to experience both SUPs and kayaks. The induction allows you to try paddle sports before deciding whether or not to buy full membership.

What you get: Approximately an hour of induction and paddling. Note that this will not be paddling tuition, rather it will show you how to use the equipment safely and give you some paddling tips. You will also get a further two paddling sessions (to be used within one month) for no extra fee before deciding whether to officially join the Castle Canoe Club.

What happens: Our team of volunteers will introduce you to the club and site by showing you the basics of paddling whilst enjoying the tranquil west reservoir. You will be shown how to safely get in and out of your boat and the paddle strokes required you get your boat moving in the right direction. The induction session formally lasts for ~1 hour. Please watch our short video below.

What to Wear: Suitable footwear (that stay on your feet… so no flip flops) that you don’t mind getting wet, sports wear (avoid cotton, but nylon, polyester or specific watersports clothing is fine), a fleece when it’s cold, sun cream, hat and sunglasses when it’s sunny. Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes. We provide boats, paddles, buoyancy aids and cags. If you don’t have suitable footwear (that stays on your feet), you will not be allowed to paddle.

When: Please be ready to paddle by the start time.

Afterwards: If you would like to take advantage of your additional (two) sessions, just turn up during club hours (Sunday 10:00-13:00; Tuesday 18:00-20:00 in summer) with the card that you are given during your induction. If you are inexperienced, please stay around the pontoon area and don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice.

Conditions (please read carefully, you will need to confirm that you accept these on your booking form):

• you must book in advance and bring the ticket with you (printout or on phone)
• you must be able to swim at least 50m
• you must be 18 or over
• you must wear appropriate clothing (see above) and must wear a buoyancy aid (we will provide this)
• you must follow all instructions given by centre or duty staff and the COVID protocols (you will be told about these)
• your participation is at your own risk
• you are responsible for the safekeeping of your personal property – we will not accept liability for any damage or loss of personal property
• you have watched the short video
• you have read the information on blue-green algae and Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) and accept the risks.