Canoeing for Pleasure

Kayaking and canoeing may seem to be the preserve of Eskimos, American Indians and the Cockleshell Heroes.  However both hobbies provide easy and cheap ways to get into the exciting world of water sports.  All that is needed are the craft, paddles, life jacket and helmet.  A wetsuit can be useful during the colder seasons.

There are two types of boat.  The Eskimo kayak has a closed deck as these boats were used for hunting or fishing in Arctic waters.  The open Canadian canoe was more often used for transport or carrying heavy loads along the rivers.

John MacGregor, a British barrister, developed the sport in 1865 and people can canoe on many types of water.  There are the large lakes, such as Kielder Water and the Scottish Lochs.  Other people prefer to paddle along the rivers and canals or go out to sea.  The more daring kayakers want to experience the adrenaline rush of white water canoeing or shooting the rapids.

Many beginners learn water safety and the techniques of canoeing at the local baths, helped by qualified instructors.

The North-east of England’s River Tyne provides some excellent sport.  People can try their hand on Kielder Water, Europe’s largest man-made lake.  Others prefer to travel between two points on the river and there is the exhilarating passage of Warden Gorge where the North and South Tyne rivers meet.

Canoeing is excellent for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts as the approach is basically silent and wild life can often be seen unaware and at close range.

There are access agreements that allow canoeists passage on many waterways.

Many local authorities provide training programmes with the City of Newcastle Outdoor Education Service being one of the beat.  More details can be obtained from 0191 265 1311.