In this award you will take ownership of your own decisions and learn to make confident choices, based on the places you paddle, wind and weather.
What is the Explore award?
If you want to become independent on the water, go on self-guided adventures and know how to control your craft and stay safe on the water, this is the award for you. If you’ve never been paddling before, it might be worth starting with the Discover award.
Who is it for?
Anyone can take the Explore award. Designed to help you gain confidence on the water, it is aimed at any craft, age and ability.
Where do we do it?
We start on the beautiful Silver Wing Lake near Wraysbury, then progress to the river Thames.
What does it involve?
There’s a strong emphasis on independence with this award, and the Explore award will fill in the gaps of knowledge you might have so you can get out paddling safely on an adventure! The award covers areas like:
- On the water etiquette and how to share the space with other water users
- Different environments you can paddle (lakes, rivers, canals, estuaries)
- Controlling your kayak, canoe or SUP safely
- Clothing and equipment needs for different environments and weather
- Safe exploration