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- A Canadian – you use single-bladed paddles
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- Open cockpit kayak (you can see the knees!)
So, first things first. We’re a canoe club. Technically you might say we’re a kayak club but we don’t believe in being terribly pedantic about the differences between the two.
If you really want us to be precise, kayaking is paddling a boat/craft using double-bladed paddles in a seated position. (Canoeing, or Canadian canoeing as it is often referred to, involves using single-bladed paddles and a lot of kneeling). We have some open Canadian touring boats at Royal that you’re welcome to use (pictured, above left) but, for the most part, it’s kayaks (above right) that you’ll be using.
If you’re keen to come canoeing, get in touch. We’re always pleased to see new members.
We can arrange to meet you, show you around the club’s facilities and get you started.
We prioritise open cockpit boats over slalom type craft where you tend to be in a closed cockpit. There are some key differences: open cockpit boats are usually steered with a rudder and tend to be quicker. We’ve always been a club that has pursued competitive canoeing and that’s something you do in open cockpit boats.
We have a range of club boats that you can try out – together with paddles and buoyancy aids. All you need to provide is some clothes to canoe in (bring layers if it’s cold, a lightweight cagoule or anorak if it’s wet) and some old shoes (so you protect your feet in the event of a capsize).
We don’t encourage you to go canoeing on your own while you’re still learning the ropes. We have coaches and other paddlers you can go on the water with in the early weeks.
We look forward to welcoming you soon.
