Dog-friendly stand-up paddle boarding (SUP): we had previously told you about an East London option offering special individual dog-friendly SUP sessions, upon prior arrangement at Royal Docks Beach. But there is something for West Londoners who want to enjoy SUP with their dog on the river Thames…
Dog-friendly stand-up paddle boarding in Richmond
We recently discovered Back of Beyond Adventures, in Richmond, which offers a range of kayaking, canoeing, and SUP lessons, trips, socials and wild camps. Talking about SUP, apart from their regular sessions (which are at times joined by dogs too), Back of Beyond Adventures has launched “SUP With Your Pup”: a dedicated event for humans with dogs to join and enjoy.
SUP With Your Pup
SUP With Your Pup sessions are thought for working core muscles, meeting like-minded friends, and mastering the basics of stand-up paddleboarding and bring man (or woman’s) best friend, writes Back of Beyond. “Our small group SUP With Your Pup sessions are a fun-packed way to take to the water with your dog and learn a new skill. Under the wing of our friendly, expert instructors you will get to grips with paddling techniques on a micro-adventure along the River Thames. During the session you’ll learn about different types of stand up paddleboards (SUPs), water safety and the rules of the river, launching and landing, paddling stances, efficient forward paddling and turning.”
Talking with Piers from Back of Beyond Adventures, he told us that some of their regular clients sometimes bring their dog on regular SUP sessions (we are currently chatting with Back of Beyond Adventures and will update this post and tell you more about this option later). Piers himself has a dog, a tan cross-breed named Ty, who has joined a number of adventures. The idea of dedicated dog-friendly sessions was something that a few clients had previously requested and sound like a terrific one to experience, probably best if you have a dog that will stay on the board rather than bring crazy for diving into the water.
Credits: Back of Beyond Adventures
Essential things to know
Back of Beyond Adventures asks participants bring a personal floatation device with a grab handle for their dogs (for some previous adventures we bought the Ruffwear floating coat (affiliate link), which we found great).
They also recommend participants bring spare clothes and a towel, footwear change (and wear footwear they don’t mind getting wet), and sun cream. They provide personal floating devices for humans and have long sleeved rash vests in case you wish to wear one.
Sessions start at the slipway in River Lane, Richmond (close to Petersham Nurseries) and last for 2 hours (just note that there are no changing facilities or toilets on site). Cost is £47 per person, £25 for members (memberships cost £60). They have also the option of hosting private groups from £35 per person. Since there are limited places available (max. 8 people), it is very much recommend booking fast!
The next dates are Sunday 28th July and Sunday 18th August 2019, both 11 am to 1 pm, and bookings can be made on Back of Beyond Adventures website clicking on the “Book now” button at the right-hand side bottom of the page, selecting “SUP” and then SUP with your pup. Any further dates will be also added in our Dog Events Calendar.
We can’t wait to pop by and tell you more about it later!
Photo credits: image courtesy of Back of Beyond Adventures
