Participants must have a basic swimming ability (be able to swim 50 metres unaided and be competent in the water wearing a buoyancy aid).
All hirer’s will be provided with a buoyancy aid that must be worn at all times whilst on the water along with the leash that attaches to yourself and to the paddleboard. The leash ensures you stay with your board at all times and if you fall into the water get back on your board straight away. If the leash becomes tangled or trapped there is a quick release strap around your leg/ankle to release you from the board. This should only be used in an emergency situation.
Participants should be aware that stand up paddleboarding can be dangerous. Hazards include (but not limited to); drowning, hypothermia, heat exposure/sun stroke, repetitive strain injury, slips, trips, falls, biological hazards from lake water, skeletal/muscular injuries from paddling or moving equipment. All participants accept exposure of the afore mentioned hazards and do not hold Paddleboard The Lakes Ltd responsible for injuries obtained from any associated activity.
Open water often lends itself to unsuitable windy conditions. Never head out in off-shore winds. Check the weather right up to your paddling time and plan for changeable winds and alternative routes. If you are unsure at all or do not feel safe then do not go out on your boards.
You are responsible for ensuring that you have the correct clothing, towel and spare clothes, etc. and are fit enough to paddle comfortably. Please bring your own wetsuit if required and see our FAQ’s for more details on what to bring with you depending on the weather.
Participants must be considerate to all other water users i.e.; swimmers, other paddleboarders, kayakers, lake cruise boats and all other boat users.
Only launch and land at suitable areas. Do not launch from private land, private jetties or anywhere that may be seen as a threat to local wildlife i.e., lake islands with nesting birds.
If you are unsure which bodies of water are safe and accessible to paddleboard on, see our FAQs section with advice based on the Lake District National Park guidelines.