Totnes: Paddleboard adventure on the River Dart

Explore the River Dart by Paddleboard in Totnes

The Totnes Paddleboard adventure offers an engaging way to explore the beautiful River Dart. This 3-hour guided tour from Longmarsh Car Park features professional guides, local knowledge, and photos and videos of your trip. It’s suitable for paddlers of all skill levels, whether you’re new to stand-up paddleboarding or already experienced.

The tour starts directly in Totnes, a charming market town, and takes you along some of the river’s most scenic sections. Paddling with the tide, you’ll have chances to spot wildlife such as kingfishers and seals, making this a memorable outdoor activity. Expect to get a little wet—this is part of the fun!

The tour includes all necessary equipment, safety briefings, and support from expert instructors. While swimming experience is recommended, it’s not required thanks to provided buoyancy aids and guiding assistance. The trip’s weather and tide conditions influence the exact route, which may include reaching Stoke Gabriel before returning to Totnes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Guided paddleboard tour along the River Dart in Totnes, lasting 3 hours.
• All equipment provided, including paddleboards, paddles, and buoyancy aids.
• Tour features local wildlife spotting, including kingfishers and seals.
• Photos and videos taken during the trip are included and shared afterward.
• Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers; swimming is optional.
• Starts at the Longmarsh Car Park with a safety briefing before heading out on the water.

Where the Tour Begins: Longmarsh Car Park as Your Starting Point

The adventure begins at the public slipway opposite the rowing club in Longmarsh Car Park. This easily accessible spot in Totnes is where the Rock The Boat Activities team gathers to introduce the day. Expect a quick safety briefing before you’re fitted with your buoyancy aid and introduced to the paddleboarding basics.

The location offers a convenient meeting place for participants and a clear point for gear distribution. After the briefing, you’ll receive all the necessary equipment and prepare to set out on the scenic River Dart. The start point’s proximity to the town makes it easy for visitors to combine this activity with other explorations in Totnes.

Safety Briefing and Equipment Provided

Upon arrival, a qualified guide provides a 10-minute safety briefing to ensure everyone feels confident on the water. You will be fitted with a buoyancy aid—crucial for safety—and given instructions on paddleboard handling and tide awareness.

The included equipment consists of a paddleboard, paddle, and buoyancy aid. You should bring a change of clothes, water, snacks, and water shoes or closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety. The tour emphasizes safety while allowing plenty of opportunities for fun, swimming, and wildlife viewing.

What to Expect During the Paddleboarding Experience

The 85-minute paddleboarding sessions are led by experienced guides who support paddlers of all skill levels. Whether you’re learning to balance or refining your strokes, the guides offer instruction and assistance throughout the trip. You will paddle along a quiet section of the River Dart, with stunning views and plenty of chances to observe local wildlife.

The route generally takes you as far as Stoke Gabriel before returning, depending on the weather and tide. Along the way, guides share local knowledge about the river’s history and ecology. Photos and videos are captured during the trip, allowing you to relive the experience afterward.

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Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Views

One of the highlights of this paddleboard trip is the opportunity to see kingfishers darting across the water and spot seals basking nearby. The river’s calmer sections are perfect for wildlife observation, making this a rewarding experience for nature lovers.

The scenic scenery around the river includes lush vegetation, tranquil waters, and views of the town of Totnes. The combination of peaceful surroundings and wildlife sightings makes this tour a relaxing yet exciting adventure.

The Paddling Route and Potential Stops

The tour typically starts in Totnes and supports paddling with the tide, giving a smooth and enjoyable experience. While the most common route reaches Stoke Gabriel before returning, this may vary with weather conditions and tide.

Traveling along the river, you’ll experience beautiful sections of water with minimal boat traffic, enhancing the sense of serenity. The guides are skilled at navigating tides and secret spots, ensuring you get the best experience possible during your time on the water.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Duration, and Group Size

The activity is designed as a 3-hour experience, starting from Longmarsh Car Park. Check availability for specific starting times, as they may vary. The group size is not specified, but guided tours typically maintain manageable numbers to ensure personalized support.

Participants should arrive prepared with change of clothes, water, snacks, and water shoes or closed-toe shoes. Expect to get wet, so dress accordingly. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years or individuals over 331 lbs (150 kg), ensuring everyone’s safety.

Flexibility with Booking and Cancellation Policies

Booking now allows for reserve now & pay later, providing flexibility as travel plans develop. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient option for spontaneous or planned trips.

The activity is conducted in English, and expert guides lead the sessions with safety and fun in mind. The tour ends back at the Longmarsh Car Park, where you can pack up and plan further exploration in Totnes.

Additional Tips for Participants

Participants are advised to bring a waterproof case if they wish to bring a phone along, as photos are encouraged during the experience. You should also wear water shoes or closed-toe shoes and pack snacks and water for the trip.

Avoid alcohol and drugs, and remember that bare feet are not permitted. The guides will be happy to take photos during the trip, which will be shared afterward, helping you remember the scenic wildlife and peaceful river views.

The Value of the Paddleboard Experience in Totnes

This guided paddleboard tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of photos and videos enhances the experience, giving you lasting memories. The expert guides ensure safety and provide insights that enrich the journey.

While the route depends on weather and tides, the overall experience promises stunning views and a chance to connect with nature in a calm setting. The all equipment included makes it accessible for beginners, with safety support for everyone.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy outdoor water activities, want to see wildlife in a peaceful environment, or simply seek a fun way to explore the River Dart, this paddleboard adventure in Totnes fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views and are comfortable with getting wet.

Participants should be prepared for physical activity and follow safety instructions. This tour does not accommodate children under 8 or individuals over 150 kg, emphasizing safety and comfort for all involved.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Supportive Paddleboarding Tour

The Totnes Paddleboard adventure by Rock The Boat Activities Ltd provides a relaxed yet engaging way to experience the River Dart. The guided support, wildlife sightings, and included photos make it a memorable outing. The scenic views and peaceful paddling experience are ideal for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

While weather conditions influence the exact route, the emphasis on safety and local knowledge ensures a smooth and enjoyable trip. This activity suits beginners eager to learn or experienced paddlers seeking a scenic cruise. It’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours on the water and discover the quieter side of Devon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the paddleboard tour last?
The tour lasts 3 hours, including safety briefings, paddling sessions, and support from guides.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at Longmarsh Car Park in Totnes and ends back at the same location.

What equipment is included in the tour?
Participants receive a paddleboard, paddle, buoyancy aid, and photos and videos of the trip.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers, with guides providing instruction and support.

Can I bring my phone or camera?
Yes, but a waterproof case and secure attachment are recommended for safety and photos.

What should I bring?
Bring change of clothes, water, snacks, and water shoes or closed-toe shoes.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
The activity not suitable for children under 8 years or those over 150 kg (331 lbs).

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the weather dependency for this tour?
The route depends on weather and tide conditions, which may affect the exact paddling route.

How do I book this paddleboard experience?
You can reserve now & pay later, keeping your plans flexible, with full details available via the booking platform.

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