What Can I Expect

Head out after sunset for a spot of night kayaking! Who needs the sun in the sky when you can take a gentle moonlit paddle on a lovely river route in East Sussex, with a fully-qualified kayak instructor to guide you.

Sounds a bit bonkers go kayaking at night doesn't it? How will you see where you're going? What's the point in paddling at night-time if there's nothing to look at? That's where this unique experience might surprise you...

The first thing you'll learn is that the human eye actually adapts quite well to seeing in the dark when there's no artificial light around. Within about 45 seconds your eyes will adjust to the lack of sun light. Whilst you might not be as sharp as an owl hunting their prey, you will be surprised how much you can see under the cover of darkness.

We should also point out that no previous experience is necessary for these night kayaking experiences. You'll meet just before sunset, giving you enough time to learn the basics of getting into the kayak, launching and paddling in a straight line. Then once night falls, you're off.

So now you're on water after dark. And this is the moment you realise it's totally magical. The only sound you can hear (apart from the friendly chatter of kayakers) is the sound of the paddle in the water. It's blissful. You might pass sleeping swans and ducks with their heads tucked into the feathers having a nap. Other animals, like owls and fixes might just be stirring, ready for a night's hunting.

With the itinerary all planned out for you, the kayak, spray deck, buoyancy aid and paddle all provided for you and a thoroughly lovely setting on carefully chosen section of the river Ouse in East Sussex, we think you might take to night kayaking like a duck to water with night-vision goggles!

When Is It Available

• Selected weekday and weekend dates between September and April
• Trips generally operate at least once a month

Suitable For

• Suitable for both beginners and regular paddlers
• Minimum age 18
• Maximum weight 18 stone (115kg)
• There are no requirements for this experience but being able to swim 50m and having a reasonable level of fitness is preferable

Spectators

• Due to the nature of this activity it is not suitable for spectators

Anything Else

• Due to the nature of this activity, waterproofs and warm clothing are advised
• A change of clothing and appropriate footwear should be worn
• All instructors are experienced and hold relevant qualifications from British Canoeing as well as first aid and safety qualifications
• You'll achieve the British Canoeing Start Award as part of this trip. If you're brand new to the sport and really want to learn the basics to get started, then this is the award for you. You'll cover everything from getting in and out of the boat, what you need to wear and paddling forward.