Have A Go

Have A Go

Learning to canoe in Northern Ireland has so many options it is sometimes difficult to know where to start. To makes things a bit easier this ‘Have a Go’ guide highlights the best way to get started and then how to continue to improve your skills.

Have a Go Events

By far the easiest way to get started is to sign up for one of the many 'Have a Go Events' on offer throughout Northern Ireland. These are typically 2 hour sessions where you can join a group and learn the very basics and play a few fun games to build up your confidence in the boat.  The qualified canoeing provider will supply all the necessary equipment so all you have to do is turn up.

Canoeing Course

After one or two Have a Go Events you’ll have been bitten by the canoeing bug and it’ll be time to enrol in a canoeing course. You’ll have no problem finding a course to suit you, they vary from intensive two or three day courses to something you can go to once a week over a period of time.  The majority of course will reward you with a recognised award from the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland.  

Guided Trips

Once you have built up some experience following your canoeing course you’ll be ready to enjoy a trip on one of Northern Ireland’s Canoe Trails.  A guided trip is perhaps the best option for your first outing.  Accompanied by a qualified instructor you’ll benefit not only from their canoeing know how but also their local knowledge of the sights and sounds of the area.

You can then progress to taking trips with groups of friends, for which you can either hire or purchase the necessary equipment

Join A Canoe Club

Another great option is to join a canoe club which provides a great way to get out and paddle with like minded folk, clubs regularly organise trips, canoeing courses and social events.

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