Canoeing and Kayaking Courses

Here in the U.K. we sometimes get confused about the differences between canoeing and kayaking. Perhaps the easiest way to explain the difference is not to look at the craft, but the paddle. A canoe paddle has only one blade and canoes are generally open with no real deck, so that you can sit or kneel inside it. Open canoes are very stable and a lot of fun! We can raft them together so that they are virtually impossible to capsize.

A kayak paddle is double-ended and kayaks are made to sit in or on. In recent years sit-on kayaks have become very popular because you are very unlikely to get stuck in one if you capsize.

Canoe and Kayak Sessions

We can offer one-day or half-day programmes in open canoes and sit-on kayaks, where you will be able to learn new skills and explore the River Medina. We launch the canoes and kayaks from the Centre, where the river provides a sheltered paddling environment for tours up and down the river.

Please note: the times and duration of the sessions will vary according to the tides. When you contact the Centre to book a session please specify whether you want to kayak or canoe. We will accept young people from the age of 8, who are confident in the water. No previous experience is necessary.

Canoeing and kayak sessions run from Easter to October.

Medina Valley Centre reserves the right to alter its advertised programme should this prove necessary due to weather or other factors beyond our control.