TheCanoeMan is a leading provider of outdoor adventure experiences in Norfolk and Suffolk, specialising in canoe, kayak and paddleboard hire, guided trails, and outdoor activities.

Based in Norfolk, they offer serene paddling experiences along the beautiful Norfolk Broads with its bases in Norwich, Coltishall, Wroxham and Beccles. Catering to clients with varied skill levels, they offer expert guidance, the equipment required for hire, and safety instruction. 

Interestingly there are options for team-building activities which are ideal for friends or work social events, bushcraft courses, and family-friendly adventures.

In terms of location, The Broads, as described by The Broads Authority, is a freshwater ecosystem made up of meandering rivers and interconnecting beautiful expanses of shallow water.

Paddleboarding or other activities allow you the freedom to take full advantage of the abundance of nature all around you. Its wonderful to see wildlife such as Kingfishers, Herons, Bitterns and the lucky few might even spot an elusive otter or two!

TheCanoeMan explains “The first rule of learning to paddleboard is expect to get wet!

It can take some practice but it’s a rewarding and fun activity. We would always recommend to start with kneeling at the board’s centre in calm water. Get used to the board on your knees and when confident its time to try and stand. This should be done well away from the banks for safety, to ensure that if you do fall, there’s nothing but water around you. When ready, place your knees on either side of the handle for balance. Move into a squatting position, bringing one foot up at a time where your knees were. Slowly stand, keeping your knees slightly bent and weight cantered. Focus on the horizon to maintain balance and engage your core.

Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, and use the paddle for added stability. We would also recommend to actually practice falling and climbing back onto the board to build confidence. The best tip is to stay relaxed, let the board move naturally with the water, and enjoy the process!”