Stand-up Paddleboard SUP Safari on The River Avon For Beginners

Exciting Stand-up Paddleboard Experience on The River Avon for Beginners

This SUP safari on the River Avon offers a short, accessible water adventure perfect for beginners and those pressed for time. At $93.86 per person, it provides 2 hours and 30 minutes of guided paddling, starting at the Arden Sailing Club in Worcester. Led by Wittering SUP, an award-winning and ASI accredited SUP school, this tour consistently earns a perfect 5-star rating based on 45 reviews. Its limited group size of up to five people ensures personalized attention, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or friends aged 12 and over who can swim at least 50 meters.

The tour emphasizes learning and relaxation, making it particularly suitable for absolute beginners. No prior paddleboarding experience is needed, thanks to helpful instructions from experienced guides. The overall focus is on enjoying the peaceful environment of the River Avon, with the added bonus of wildlife spotting, which includes kingfishers, herons, deer, wagtails, skylarks, and dragonflies.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly SUP tour with no prior experience required
• Guided by qualified instructors offering clear instructions and safety tips
• Tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes from meeting to return
• Limited group size of five, ensuring personalized attention
• Includes all gear and the chance to see local wildlife and scenic views
• A portion of proceeds supports the Kemerton Conservation Trust

Starting Point at Arden Sailing Club in Worcester

The tour begins at the Arden Sailing Club, located at Bourne Road, Worcester. The meeting point is accessible via Revills Farm Shop, which also provides parking and facilities like toilets and showers. The activity kicks off at 9:30 am, giving early risers a peaceful start to the day. The meeting process includes a comprehensive safety brief and initial instruction on land, ensuring that even complete beginners feel confident before stepping onto the water.

The mobile ticket system streamlines access, and the experience is designed to be accessible for participants with moderate physical fitness levels. Service animals are permitted, making the activity suitable for a diverse group. The small group size of up to 10 ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with guides always available to provide personalized tips.

Learning to Paddleboard with Qualified Coaches

The guides at Wittering SUP, including ASI qualified technical coaches, focus heavily on teaching proper technique. Participants learn to kneel, then stand on the paddleboard, mastering correct paddle strokes, turning techniques, and safety procedures. The instructors, often praised for their warmth and professionalism, ensure everyone feels comfortable throughout the session.

The gear is fully provided, meaning no extra equipment is necessary. The training on land is clear and helpful, making the transition to the river smooth and confidence-building. This comprehensive instruction makes the tour ideal for those new to paddleboarding or seeking a refresher with expert guidance.

Scenic and Wildlife-Rich Environment of The River Avon

Once on the water, the River Avon offers a serene setting that is perfect for relaxation. The quiet, non-motorized vessel allows for close wildlife encounters, which include kingfishers, herons, deer, wagtails, and skylarks. The scenery is noted for its tranquility and natural beauty, making the experience both peaceful and photogenic.

Participants often comment on the scenic views and rich biodiversity. The calm waters and lush surroundings create an environment where wildlife can be seen without disturbance, adding a special touch to the activity. The scenic backdrop and wildlife encounters are highlights that make this SUP safari more than just a beginner lesson.

The Small Group Advantage for Personalised Paddling

This tour limits groups to five participants, a feature highly praised for personalized coaching and attentive guidance. This small-group setup ensures that guides can tailor their instructions to individual needs, making the activity more comfortable and less intimidating for newcomers.

The intimate group size also fosters a friendly atmosphere, encouraging questions and providing more detailed tips. Whether learning the basics or trying a few advanced maneuvers, participants benefit from the close supervision and encouragement from instructors like Alex and James.

The Experience of the Year Award and Customer Praise

The sup safari has been recognized as the “Experience of The Year” at the Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards 22/23, reflecting its popularity and quality. Review comments consistently highlight the clear instructions, top-tier equipment, and welcoming guides.

In particular, the approachability and enthusiasm of guides Alex and James earn frequent praise. Many reviews mention how safe and supported they feel, even for those nervous about the activity. The scenic beauty and wildlife sightings are often described as extra bonus features that elevate the experience beyond a typical beginner lesson.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

Booking this SUP Safari offers free cancellation, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours prior. The activity is weather-dependent, and poor weather may lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling options. The timing at 9:30 am is planned to optimize favorable weather conditions and calm waters.

Participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity and moderate fitness levels. The guides recommend swimming at least 50 meters as a safety requirement. The gear provided is designed for ease of use, making it accessible even for those with little to no water sport experience.

The Food and Drink Perks at Revil’s Farm Shop

All paddlers receive a 10% discount at Revil’s Farm Shop and Cafe, conveniently located at the meeting point. After the activity, visitors can enjoy hot drinks and delicious lunches on-site, adding a tasty reward to the morning’s adventure. This feature enhances the overall value, providing an opportunity to relax and reflect on the experience while enjoying local produce.

Why This SUP Safari Stands Out

What truly makes this tour special is its combination of accessible instruction, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters. The small group size ensures individual attention, and the high praise for guides like Alex and James confirms that participants are in expert hands. The award-winning status and consistent 5-star reviews attest to its quality.

This activity is perfect for beginners, families, and groups seeking a peaceful outdoor activity. Its short duration makes it suitable for those with limited time, while the scenic surroundings and wildlife sightings offer a memorable experience. The focus on safety, instruction, and fun makes it a reliable choice for first-time paddleboarders.

Final Thoughts on The River Avon SUP Safari

The SUP safari on the River Avon with Wittering SUP offers a friendly, professional, and scenic introduction to paddleboarding. The $93.86 price tag reflects the value of expert tuition, all gear, and exclusive wildlife views. The 2.5-hour duration strikes a perfect balance between learning and relaxation.

While the activity is weather-dependent and best suited for those moderate in fitness, the small group size and high-quality instruction make it a valuable experience, especially for those new to water sports. Whether seeking a peaceful morning on the river or a fun, confidence-building activity, this SUP safari delivers a memorable taste of paddleboarding and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed specifically for absolute beginners. No prior paddleboarding experience is required, and guides provide comprehensive instruction on land before heading onto the water.

What should I bring or wear?
All necessary gear is provided. Participants should wear appropriate clothing for water activities, preferably comfortable and suitable for moderate physical activity. A swim ability of at least 50 meters is recommended for safety.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation, and if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, a full refund is issued. If the weather is poor, the activity is likely to be canceled or rescheduled.

What is included in the price?
The $93.86 fee includes all paddleboarding gear, instruction, and the guided safari on the River Avon. Participants also benefit from a 10% discount at Revil’s Farm Shop and Cafe.

Who are the guides and what are they like?
Guides Alex and James are frequently praised for their warm, encouraging, and professional approach. They focus on safety, technique, and fun, making even nervous beginners feel at ease.

Is the activity appropriate for children or older adults?
Yes, the activity is suitable for ages 12 and over who can swim at least 50 meters. The small group setting and clear instructions accommodate a wide range of ages and fitness levels.