Paddle Boarding FAQ's

Parking is the King George Car Park located in front of River Mead School. This pay and display can be accessed via Lowbourne Road. Google Maps (https://goo.gl/maps/JQbHizi2tX7b68tp6)

Please arrive around 15 minutes before your session start time. This will allow for any waivers that need to be signed or preparation you may need for the activity.

The venue is situated almost next to the car park. Just aim for the river!

-Comfortable clothing that is suitable for the weather conditions. Make sure to bring an extra set of clothes incase you get dunked. -Towel -Spare shoes if you wish to wear them on the board. -Water ( yes its a water sport but we always promote hydration). -Personal medication as required.

We aim to create a relaxed, safe and positive environment where everyone feels comfortable to have a go. How it all works will be explained in detail by the instructor before you enter the water. We believe it's not all about Standing up, it's about having a go and pushing your comfort zone in a way that is right for you. It is through this philosophy that we aim to create inclusive sessions that are for everyone, no matter your background.

In the UK we know the weather can be very unpredictable, so we would always recommend bringing a waterproof jacket. Rain does not pose a safety issue and after all it is a water activity. We keep a constant eye on the forecast, and if we decide conditions aren't suitable for a Paddle Boarding session then we may need to postpone. In which case, alternative dates will be provided. Please refer to our Booking Terms (https://www.betteroffadventures.co.uk/terms-and-conditions)for more information.

Session plan: - Meet and greet with the instructors, before kitting up and exploring the boards. - We will take you through the basics of holding a paddle, how to get on and off the board and how to manoeuvre yourself when on it. - After a some basics on wide section we will travel up river to gain more confidence and explore the Avon, Hopefully catching a glimpse of some king fishers.

We recommend just keeping them in your vehicles and our instructor can keep your keys safe in their vehicle. How ever if you haven't driven the instructor will be happy enough to keep it in their vehicle. (Please note all valuables are left at your own risk. Better off Adventures and all staff related to, take no responsibility of participants belongings, this includes when its stored in the staff members vehicle)

Unfortunately we are still very new and can't offer wetsuits just yet, how ever the water isn't terribly cold at the moment. We do how ever have cagoules (waterproof jackets) which are ideal for keeping the wind off if you do get wet. Obviously we welcome you bringing your own wetsuit if you do wish to do so.

We have some flexibility to allow for on the day delays (such as traffic). Please let us know as far in advance as possible in case of any cancellations. Refer to our Booking Terms (https://www.betteroffadventures.co.uk/terms-and-conditions)for our refund policy.

There are public toilets that can be used that are a 2 minute walk from the riverside. How ever this will also have to be used as changing room if you do get wet.

Better off Adventures ensures you only get the most qualified of staff who assess risks onsite at all times to minimise any danger. We create a safe environment that adheres to strict national guidelines, how ever-Paddle Boarding can carry inherent risks and participants should fully read and understand our Activity Waiver (https://www.betteroffadventures.co.uk/activity-waiver)before attending a session.

There is no "I'm too old for this"! At Better off Adventures we have witnessed some amazing people of all ages accomplish a lot more than they expected, so for this reason we do not have a maximum age limit. Minimum age: 8 years (due to the limitations of our Buoyancy aids and not having the strength to hold paddles) If your child is younger than this, but has some experience or is very confident outdoors, then we may be able to accommodate them. Please get in touch to discuss this before booking.

As the Melksham canoe club and the Avon is a public venue, other people can come into the general area. However when we start setting off they may not be able to follow along as the footpath becomes pretty scarce at points. We also go faster than the average walker. How ever thats plenty time to grab a coffee before watching us return.

Yes by all means! However, our instructors may insist that our kit is used if the equipment is not deemed safe upon inspection. If you Bring your own Inflatable then please unsure you arrive earlier to inflate before the sessions starts.

We will be at the venue for the duration of the session, and there will be plenty of opportunity for breaks. So feel free to bring some snacks. We do recommend bringing some water with you, as it can be thirsty work.

Please use our Contact (javascript:void(0))page to reach out to us, so we can work to resolve any issues you might have.

Of course! We can either provide you with a personal 1-to-1, or you can sign up to our open public courses where you will be participating with other friendly people.

Better off Adventures operates to the latest guidelines set out by governing bodies. Our activities take place exclusively outdoors, and social distancing can be maintained for the vast majority of the session. Masks are not required to be worn during activities. However, it may occasionally be necessary for instructors to get closer than 2m for safety reasons. This will be kept to an absolute minimum, and we would recommend wearing a mask during these times. Please see our COVID Policy (javascript:void(0))for more information.

No Worries at all, We provide you with a personal flotation aid which will make you buoyant in the water. Just let our staff know of your ability level in the water.