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Canoeing
How do I get started?
First of all, you must be able to swim. If you can swim, the best way to get started in canoeing is to join a club. Visit the British Canoe Union website for a list of clubs.
How much does it cost?
Club subscriptions vary greatly – some charge less than £10 per year while more specialised clubs will charge in the region of £60 annually.
Many clubs and companies offer hire canoes of different types, starting at around £30 per day, inclusive of licence, paddle and other equipment. If you want to buy your own canoe there is a wide range available starting at about £300. You will also need a paddle (from £30), buoyancy aid (from £35), and possibly a spraydeck (from £25).
Can I get lessons?
Some clubs provide basic training free of charge but other clubs may charge around £20 per hour, one to one. Group training is cheaper.
Can I do this as a family?
Canoeing is a great family activity. Many clubs cater for families and you can choose from single, two and generally up to four-seater canoes and kayaks.
Can I canoe if I have a disability?
There are many clubs based on the Thames for people with disabilities. We recommend you visit the BCU website for more information and a list of suitable clubs.
I already have a boat – can I just go out on my own?
If you own a canoe, you can take it anywhere on the River Thames once you have registered it with the Environment Agency. You can buy a licence from lock keepers along the River Thames or by calling our Craft Registration team on 0118 953 5650. For further information visit the Registering your boat page.
What are the golden rules of canoeing?
- Don’t canoe if you can’t swim.
- Don’t right a capsized canoe. Hang on to it.
- Don’t put more people in a canoe than it is designed to carry.
- Don’t change places in a canoe.
- Don’t go out alone – three canoes are a safe minimum.
- Do keep away from weirs.
- Do ask about local conditions – tides, currents and weather conditions.
- Don’t have slack decklines.
- Don’t wear Wellington boots or heavy clothes.
- Keep well clear of other water users.
- Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be.