Studland Bay, Dorset: Paddleboarding Lesson

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $81 per person and lasts 2 hours.
• Location: It takes place in Studland Bay, Dorset, a protected Marine Conservation Zone.
• Suitable for Beginners: No prior experience needed, with all necessary gear provided.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to spot dolphins, seals, seabirds, and learn about local marine life.
• Expert Instruction: Fully qualified paddlesport guides lead safety briefings and skill-building.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Studland Bay: A Prime Setting for Paddleboarding

Studland Bay in Dorset offers a calm, sheltered environment ideal for learning paddleboarding. The beach is backed by sand dunes and heathland, creating a scenic backdrop for this water sport. As a Marine Conservation Zone, the area is rich in underwater habitats and diverse wildlife, making the experience both fun and educational.

The bay’s crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility for spotting marine animals and seabed features like seagrass meadows. The location’s natural beauty and ecological significance make it a top choice for beginners seeking a safe, scenic spot to learn paddleboarding.

What the 2-Hour Paddleboarding Lesson Includes

This paddleboarding session includes all necessary equipment, such as composite paddleboards, wetsuits, buoyancy aids, helmets, and safety gear. The expert instructors from Fore Adventure guide participants through a comprehensive safety briefing and skill development.

The lesson is split into 110 minutes of on-water practice, with time allocated to transitioning from prone and kneeling positions to standing confidently on the board. Participants learn effective paddle strokes, turning techniques, and self-rescue skills—all in calm, protected waters.

Learning to Paddleboard with Fully Qualified Guides

The guides are fully qualified and experienced in paddlesports, ensuring safety and clarity throughout the session. They support participants by providing local insights about Studland Bay, its ecology, and conservation efforts.

We like how the instructors explain each skill in a straightforward manner, making the experience accessible whether it’s your first time or you want to sharpen your technique. Their friendly approach helps build confidence on the water, encouraging everyone to enjoy their adventure.

Encountering Marine Wildlife in Studland Bay

A standout aspect of this paddleboarding lesson is the chance to spot dolphins and seals nearby. The waters around Studland Bay are home to a variety of sea creatures and birdlife, with seabirds often seen circling overhead.

During the tour, you may also learn about edible seaweeds, local history, and conservation efforts. The opportunity to witness playful dolphins or curious seals adds a memorable touch to the experience, emphasizing the bay’s ecological richness.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Bays’ Beautiful Coastline

Once participants are comfortable on their boards, there’s the option to paddle further afield towards iconic sights like Old Harry Rocks, chalk cliffs and sea stacks that are part of the Jurassic Coast.

This extension is perfect for those with some paddleboarding experience or who want a more adventurous outing. The intermediate paddle offers scenic views and a chance to explore more of the coastline, making the most of Studland Bay’s stunning surroundings.

What to Expect During the Tour

The meeting point for the tour is at a black hut in the left corner of the middle beach car park. Participants are welcomed here, where equipment is stored, and provided with a safety briefing before heading onto the water.

The entire session, including the briefing, lasts 2 hours. The small group size (limited to 8 people) ensures personalized guidance and a relaxed atmosphere. Participants are advised to bring water shoes, sunscreen, towels, and swimwear.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

This activity is suitable for ages 12 and above, with no swimming ability required as all safety gear is provided. It is an active experience that involves moderate physical activity, suitable for most fitness levels.

Children under 12 are not eligible, but those aged 6 months or more of the minimum age are welcome to participate if accompanied by an adult. Participants should be comfortable in water and prepared for a fun, active session on the water.

Logistics and Safety Measures

The tour is led by English-speaking guides from Fore Adventure and is conducted in small groups. The weather guarantee allows for rescheduling or full refunds if conditions are unsafe.

Participants need to bring their own water shoes—no other items need to be provided by the participant. The meeting point is clearly marked, and no beach waiting is permitted to ensure safety and organization.

Pricing and Booking Flexibility

At $81 per person, this paddleboarding lesson offers good value considering the all-included equipment, expert instruction, and wildlife opportunities. The tour can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the reserve now, pay later option provides flexibility for travelers.

Additional Activities and Similar Experiences

Fore Adventure offers other options along the Jurassic Coast, including kayaking trips to Old Harry Rocks and full-day tours of the Isle of Purbeck. These activities complement the paddleboarding experience and cater to different adventure levels.

Final Thoughts on the Studland Bay Paddleboarding Lesson

This 2-hour paddleboarding session in Studland Bay provides a relaxed, scenic introduction to watersports for beginners. The calm waters, expert guides, and wildlife sightings make it a memorable outing for those interested in learning a new skill or enjoying Dorset’s natural beauty.

While it is a shorter experience, the inclusions—such as all equipment and safety gear—and the chance to see seals and dolphins elevate its value. It’s an ideal choice for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a fun, active way to explore the coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior paddleboarding experience required?
No, no prior experience is needed. The session is designed for beginners and includes comprehensive instruction.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring water shoes, sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear. All safety equipment is provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 12 and above can participate. Children under 12 are not allowed.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reschedule if weather conditions are unsafe.

Where is the meeting point?
The tour departs from a black hut in the left corner of the middle beach car park.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see seals, dolphins, seabirds, and learn about local marine life and conservation.

Is the activity physically demanding?
It involves moderate activity, suitable for most fitness levels. Those with concerns should contact the activity provider.

What is the price?
The session costs $81 per person, including all gear and instruction.

Are additional activities available?
Yes, Fore Adventure offers kayaking and full-day tours along the Jurassic Coast.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour includes a weather guarantee—if conditions are unsafe, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby