Getting Started
Getting Started
The Broads is a great place to take to the water for the first time in a variety of boats ranging from an open canoe, a sailing dinghy or the luxury of a motor or sailing holiday cruiser, with details of the different options available detailed below:
But before setting off on your first voyage, a few items you need to think about;
- Always wear a buoyancy aid or life-jacket when on the water;
- Boats can be unstable, so take care when stepping in or out of your boat;
- Always let someone know where you are going and when you have returned;
- Make sure you have suitable clothing and footwear, and check out the weather forecast so you are fully prepared.
More information can be found at our Boating Safety Tips webpage.
Canoeing
Whilst you can hire a canoe from a number of canoe hire centres around the Broads, we recommend you go on a simple beginner’s course that will give you the paddling basics and help make your first trip more enjoyable. So pop into one of the Broads Information Centres, or contact the British Canoe Union at www.bcu.org.uk for details of training courses and centres local to you.
To get you started, please check our Canoeing Code of Conduct leaflet, which offers simple tips and information to make your trip safe and enjoyable.
Rowing
Taking to the water in a rowing dinghy is a simple way of starting your boating life, and rowing boats can be hired from a number of locations around the Broads. To get you started, please check our Rowing Code of Conduct leaflet, which offers simple tips and information to make your trip safe and more enjoyable.
Sailing and Windsurfing
Sailing is a peaceful and relaxing way to enjoy the Broads, and if you have never sailed before, we suggest going on a trip with a qualified skipper either on a traditional Norfolk wherry or other sailing craft.
The next step could be doing a sailing course recognised by the Royal Yacht Association, which will teach you to handle your boat in a safe and responsible manner, and give you an idea of the most suitable type of sailing boat for you.
To get you started, please check our Sailing Code of Conduct leaflet, which offers simple tips and information to make your trip safe and enjoyable.
An alternative to sailing is windsurfing, with the two main centres being at Hickling Broad and Oulton Broad. Once again a good first step could be doing a Royal Yacht Association recognised course.
Motor Boating
If you prefer you’re boating to be as easy as possible, then try motor boating, with a first start being hiring a day boat at numerous locations around the Broads.
If you are thinking of then getting your own motor boat, a good first step is an approved Royal Yacht Association course.
To get you started, please check our Day boat Cruising Code of Conduct leaflet, which offers simple tips and information to make your trip safe and enjoyable.
