Beginners… We all have to start somewhere!
Beginner lessons are designed to get you up and paddling in the shortest amount of time while still giving you a full WPA (World Paddleboarding Association) based lesson… with lots of smiles and fun.
I start with the basics but include information on Boards, Paddles, holding the paddle correctly, proper stroke technique, turning and maneuvering the board, water safety (very important), carrying the board to and from the water correctly, and then getting on the board from the shoreline.
From there the lesson takes us to the sea and we practice the strokes and then how to stand correctly – trust me, this is important!
Once you are standing and can comfortably balance, paddle, and turn the board, we go for a guided paddle that usually lasts about an hour.
While out there, I will do my best to point out any mistakes in form or technique that you might have.
I also provide little bits of information and history on the island if you want, but the color of the water and the possibility of spotting a Sea Turtle along the coasts of Barbados is usually enough distraction for most.
Morning Lessons and Paddles are better for photo opportunities and to experience the beautiful colors in the water and on the reef.
Evening Lessons and Sunset Paddles are more peaceful and relaxing and the sunsets can be stunning.
Requirements: You MUST be able to swim. No questions asked. Not necessarily like Michael Phelps or Mark Spitz, but you should be able to comfortably tread water if you fall off the board.
Depending on the time of the lesson you might want to bring some sunscreen and or a Rash Guard, a towel, and your smile:-)
Intermediate Lessons and Fitness
Once you have done your beginner lesson and you are fairly comfortable on a SUP Board, we can try a number of different things to keep you interested.
With a guided Tour along the south or west coasts of Barbados, I offer to review your basic stroke technique, try you on smaller boards (to challenge you and your core) and teach you a couple of advanced turning techniques and strokes.
See some of our more popular tours or classes below or view our page on SUP Surfing and SUP Yoga here:
I want to try SUP Surfing & Yoga!
Turtle Tours
This one is for those of you who might like to combine a nice Paddle and a Snorkel Tour with seeing some Sea Turtles along the coasts of Barbados.
We offer Paddles from select locations to swim with the beautiful Sea Turtles.
A small selection of masks and snorkels is available, but bringing your own is recommended.
These tours last about 1.5 to 2 hours and while seeing a sea turtle is probable, it is not guaranteed as these are wild creatures that come and go as they please.
Locations: West Coast and Carlisle Bay
Best Time: Mornings from 9 am to 11 am
Requirements: You must be able to swim, and previous snorkeling experience is a big plus. You can combine this tour with a beginner SUP Lesson.
What to bring:
- Mask, Snorkel, and Flippers if you have them.
- Bikinis and board shorts!
- We highly recommend a rashguard or sunscreen.
- Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you want.
- I will provide a cool bottle of water for after your class.