Kayak, Canoe & Bell Boat?

Kayaking

Kayaking is our most requested activity and is enjoyed at the centre by numerous schools, youth clubs and individuals throughout the year.

A kayak (not to be confused with a canoe) is a small human-powered boat. It typically has a closed deck, and a cockpit which can be covered by a spray-deck to prevent water entering the craft. The kayak was used by Inuit hunters in sub-Arctic regions. It is propelled by a double-bladed paddle in the hands of a sitting paddler. Modern kayaks come in a wide variety of designs and materials for specialized purposes and disciplines of the sport.

Being a water based centre, boating is our first love. We have many well-qualified coaches and a lot of our staff have competed in various disciplines at National and International level.

We have been passing on our knowledge and experience to young people and adults alike for over 40 years now.

We run our Pirate Club kayaking sessions 3 times per week and we take trips away on a regular basis. If you are interested in any kayaking activities or courses please contact us.

For more information click here: Young People's Kayaking & Canoeing Club

For more information on on holidays click here: Holiday Scheme

Canoeing

A canoe is a small boat, typically human-powered, though it can also be powered by sails or small electric motors. Canoes usually are pointed at both bow and stern and are normally open on top, but can be decked over (similar to a kayak).

photo of a group canoeing at The Pirate Castle

In its human-powered form, the canoe is propelled by the use of paddles, usually with two people. Paddlers face in the direction of travel, either seated or in a kneeling position directly upon the hull. The canoe paddles tend to be single-bladed.

The oldest recovered canoe in the world is the Canoe of Pesse (the Netherlands). According to dating analysis it was constructed somewhere between 8,200 and 7,600 BCE.

Bell Boating

Designed by Olympic Canoe Coach David Train, the Bell Boat is a unique design in watercraft.

Its purpose is to remove the fear of taking part in water activities and to help with team work and co-operation.

The versatility of the Bell Boat is great, it’s robust and stable platform is perfect for introducing all ages and abilities to water sports and the local environment.

These boats are great for team races and easy going journeys and are perfect for groups with physical and learning difficulties.