In this Blog we will discuss some Highlands SUP safety considerations, but actually this information will be relevant to most places! This Blog is not a replacement for qualified and professional training and should be treated as an interest piece and not for training/learning. Professional instruction is available from qualified British Canoeing (BC) instructors nationwide.

If none of the infomation below is new and you are confident and competent and want to get out on the water in the Highlands then contat us at Your Adventure Scotland for SUP hire and other water adventures.

Safety First

Safety is a high priority when out and about having Adventures so please ensure you are always competent and confident you understand the safety requirements of any activity before undertaking them. If you require further advice or instruction, then please seek out an appropriately qualified guide. Locally we have Dipper Paddle Boarding giving expert Highlands SUP lessons for beginners.

The RLNI have a great resource available to ensure that all remain safe when out using the water ways. Read the article in this link to find out about specific safety considerations for Stand Up Paddle Boards.

When going out for a Highlands SUP adventure there are few safety things that need to be considered (This list is not exhaustive, there’s always more to learn!):

The weather
Local hazards
The right equipment
Group competence

1. The Weather

The weather can have a big impact on where the most suitable place to have your Highland SUP adventure is. Up here in the Highlands the weather can change at anytime, and so it is important to keep an eye on the forcast. As the wind has the biggest impact on SUP-ing the best locations for Stand Up Paddle Boarding will be sheltered, or have on-shore winds to prevent getting blown away! Cold shock can happen in any weather conditions and precautions such as suitable clothing, personal protective equipment and understanding the environment will help mitigate against this.

2. Local Hazards

Local Hazards can be any number of things such as; other water users (I.e. speed boats, jet skis etc.), weirs and dams, rapids and falls on rivers, water quality and the list goes on. Please ensure you get enough local information about where you intend to take your Highland SUP on the water. There are often notices about current harmful algae blooms (e.g. blue-green algae), but it is better to have a thorough investigation to check this is not a problem before getting on. There are also water borne infectious disease such as Weil’s Disease, British rowing has some useful information about water borne infectious disease here.

3. The Right Equiptment

Some boards are suitable for rivers and others for open water. Choosing the right equipment requires research and an understanding of the sport. For example, our boards here at Your Adventure Scotland are excellent beginner SUPs (Sandbanks Style). They are large, really stable and suitable for up to two people (120kg). They are only intended for very sheltered water. This makes them perfect for a family who want to have their own Highland SUP adventure. There are river boards and ones better suited for surf conditions. Ankle leashes tend to be for open water situations, but can be a hazard on moving water. For further information ensure you get professional and qualified instruction.

4. Group Competency

It is vital to understand the confidence and competency of your whole group when out on the water. Personal protection is a MUST when using a SUP. Protection against the cold (wet suits or rash vests) can make your day more enjoyable as well as safer. When on moving water helmets may be necessary. Again, understanding the conditions and the hazards of the area in which you are paddling is essential. Personal Floatation Devices (PFD’s), such as Buoyancy Aids (BA’s) are a MUST in all situations, even if the members of the group are strong swimmers. When undertaking activities on the water it is always a good idea to bring a friend or two! Always ensure someone knows where you are going and when to expect you off the water.

If you hire SUP’s from us, we will be happy to be your call out. Just drop us a message of where you intend to go, how many people you’re with and when you’ll be off the water. Then let us know when you’re off the water and how much fun you’ve had on your Highland SUP adventure!

Highlands SUP Hire

If you are confident and competent enough to go out alone, then why not hire a SUP from us today and make your Highlands Adventure memorable and unique!

If you fancy a drier activity but still want to experience the beautiful Lochs of the Highlands you could also try Your Canoe Adventure, with a qualified and proffesional guide.

Highlands SUP Safety