The New Forest Kayak and Canoe Club was founded in 2007 by a small group of enthusiastic individuals who were keen to meet and improve their paddling skills.  Since then the club has grown to over one hundred members with a range abilities from BCU 1 star standard up to BCU 4 star leaders.  Our geographical location has naturally led to a high proportion of sea kayakers, however many of our members have interests in white water, open canoeing and surf kayaking and the club encourages all members to try these broader activities. 

We meet on Wednesday evenings throughout the year spending the spring and summer evenings on the Beaulieu River and paddling locally in the Solent area.  In the winter we move inside for pool sessions to practice in the warm.  Throughout the year we regularly practice safety skills such as rolling and rescues and encourage all members to take part in these fun wet sessions. Thanks to a grant from “Awards for All” the club has a number of boats and other equipment available for club members to use for a nominal charge. Click here for details.

Although we are not a coaching organisation, the club manages to cater for members who are new to paddling by mentoring, support and encouragement and has an active core of members as well as  BCU level 1 and 2 qualified coaches who are generally willing to spend time helping beginners. This infectious enthusiasm results in many members who continually wish improve their skills and experience through professional training and coaching.

The club organises a programme of events throughout the year catering to all paddling abilities.  These include sea kayaking trips along the Hampshire and Dorset coasts, white water trips to Devon and Wales as well as some weekend trips. Club members are keen to attend sea kayak symposiums during the year and members are encouraged to undertake professional coaching with courses organised for Foundation Safety and Rescue, VHF Radio and First Aid training.  Details of the current programme of trips, Symposiums and courses can be found on the Events Calendar.

The club has an active online forum available to all members where peer paddles are arranged, equipment and events are discussed and a gallery of photographs from club trips and other events can be found.

Club Members benefit from year round concessionary access to the Beaulieu River at Bucklers Hard, 20% discount on all Liquid Logistics courses and trips, 5% discount at Woodmill Shop for all purchases over £50 in value and a negotiable discount on many items at Andark.