Courses

Canoeing

• Courses
• Booking Information
• Dinghy Sailing for Young People
• Dinghy Sailing for Adults
• Cruising
• Powerboating
• Canoeing
• Raft Building

Canoeing and Kayaking

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 only has one blade and canoes are generally open with no real deck, so that you can sit or kneel inside it, as in the picture on the left.

Open canoes are very stable and a lot of fun! We can raft them together so that they are virtually impossible to capsize as in this picture:

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. From 2009 Medina Valley Centre will be able to 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. The river at the centre 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 day or half-day please specify whether you want to kayak or canoe. We will accept students from 8 years of age who are confident in the water. No previous experience is necessary.

Dates and fees:  To see dates and fees for all courses click here

A fun introductory canoe course for those with little experience canoeing. Using our open canoes our BCU Coaches teach you a range of techniques to keep you in control of your canoe and lead expeditions further a field.

BRITISH CANOE UNION 1 and 2 STAR AWARD
Level: Beginner
Age: All ages - have you thought about coming as a family? Discounts available...

Canoeing courses run from Easter to October. It is also possible to run additional courses to what is advertised. Please contact us to make an enquiry.

Last year, the Medina Valley Centre ran some popular canoe safaris on the Western Yar. For more information about Eco-Canoe trails or evening paddles, please contact us.

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