It’s really simple. Simply visit the British Canoeing site and pay the purchase fee. If you aren’t a regular paddler, there’s also the option to select day licenses from organisations such as the Canal & River Trust or broads authority (which also gives you the option to purchase yearly licences).
Do you need a license to kayak in UK?
If you’re kayaking, canoeing or stand up paddleboarding in England or Wales a waterway licence is required to paddle on over 5000km of waterways that are managed by the Canal & River Trust, the Environment Agency, the Broads Authority and a number of other waterway authorities.
Can I kayak on any river UK?
The sea surrounding the UK is free to Kayak except for a few off-limits areas as stipulated by the Ministry of Defence. This includes any estuaries and tidal rivers. Many rivers have tides that extend far inland so keep that in mind when researching your preferred paddling destination.
What is needed to start kayaking UK?
Learn sea kayaking skills for a unique way of exploring the spectacular Pembrokeshire coastline. On top of this, you’ll need a double-bladed paddle, a personal flotation device/life jacket and a dry bag to keep your important items in. And some clothes you can get wet of course!
How much is a waterways licence UK?
Prices range from around £20 for a week’s licence on a river only to around £122 for 30-day ‘Explorer’ licence on a canal or river (prices as of April 2022), which allows you to spread out your use across the year.
Can you kayak on canals UK?
Yes, licences are required for the Canal and River Trust, exceptions being for members of British Canoeing and Canoe Wales who can use the waterways for free.
What happens if you dont have a waterways licence?
Do I need to carry a waterways licence? You will need to carry proof of your licence with you when you paddle to avoid a fine when paddling on inland waterways that need a licence. If you don’t have proof when you’re asked to produce a licence, you could face a hefty fine.
What is the 120 rule for kayaking?
A good rule of thumb to follow is the “120° rule.” This means you should wear a wetsuit or dry suit whenever the sum of the air temperature and water temperature is equal to or less than 120°F. Warm weather does not cancel out the danger of cold water, wearing lighter clothing on a warm day increases risk.
How many miles can you kayak in a day on a river?
When things go as planned, you might be able to paddle for eight or even nine hours a day in great conditions. If you average two miles per hour, that could place your daily mileage in excess of 16 or even 18 miles.
Can I go kayaking without lessons?
The simple answer is no; you can self-teach kayaking as it is a very natural feeling once you’re on the water. However, you will have a much more productive and enjoyable time kayaking on the water after taking a few navigation classes and paddling skills lessons (even if they are on YouTube).
What do I need for a kayaking course?
- Paddle float.
- Headlamp/light with extra batteries (in case you’re out after last light)
- Bilge pump.
- Spare hand paddle.
- Spray skirt (for cold weather/water)
- Paddling knife (attached to PFD)
- Towline.
- Maps and charts in waterproof case.
Can you launch a kayak from anywhere?
Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards do not need to use boat ramps. You can launch from just about anywhere there is permitted access.
Do you need a licence to kayak in a river?
If you’re paddling on the sea, estuaries or tidal water, or on a river or canal which doesn’t require a licence, then that’s fine, you don’t need one. There are also options to purchase a day licence. A Rivers licence is not a tax. The income is used for the benefit of paddlers.
What side of the river do you kayak on?
Is there a correct side to pass on on canals and rivers? Ian. as a general rule you should pass left hand side to left hand side. i.e. aim to the right of the boat coming towards you, thereby going between it and the rhs bank.
Can I paddle board anywhere UK?
Can you paddleboard anywhere UK? Almost all the waterways in the UK can be used for enjoyment by paddleboarders once you have a license. Cromford Canal and Bridgewater Canal do not accept paddleboarders on their waterways.
Where in the UK can you kayak?
The Wye Valley
The Wye Valley is one of the most spectacular places to kayak or canoe in the UK. With over 100 miles of navigable water, it is very popular for multi-day trips.
Can you kayak on any rivers?
There are legal rights to go boating on some non-tidal rivers because they have been highways for centuries. The general rule is that if a river was once a highway for commercial traffic, it is still a highway and can be used by kayakers.
Is kayaking good exercise?
Canoeing and kayaking are low impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. Specific health benefits include: Improved cardiovascular fitness. Increased muscle strength, particularly in the back, arms, shoulders and chest, from moving the paddle.
How much is the fine for not having a waterways licence?
What if I don’t have a waterways licence? You can be fined up to £1,000 if you’re caught on an inland waterway and the following applies.
Can you kayak across the English Channel?
Kayaking across the English Channel – while quite tiring – was actually very straightforward. We were accompanied by a support boat and had some of the best conditions they had ever seen! The crossing took us five hours and eighteen minutes.
Do I need a licence to paddle board UK?
The British Canoeing “On the Water” memberships gets you a full Waterways license to paddle on over 5,000km of waterways in the UK. It also includes public liability insurance with £10 million civil liability when you paddle and a great rate on canoe, kayak and paddleboard insurance, provided by Towergate Insurance.