“The location of sites, and quantity and quality of information available, allows sea paddlers to follow the trail in manageable sections, and shows an unprecedented degree of forward planning and co-operation.”
Duncan R Winning, OBE
Honorary President of the Scottish Canoe Association
Training is key to safe participation in watersports and we recommend when you wish to try a new paddlesport such as sea kayaking, you attend a taster session to find out more about it. From there, you can get training from a qualified paddlesport or sea kayaking instructor to help you safely enjoy the activity.
Find out more about sea kayaking from the sport’s respective governing body. www.canoescotland.org
The RNLI is the UK’s lifeboat service. It is a charity which aims to save lives at sea and stop people from getting into danger in the first place. They provide useful information for staying safe on the sea on their website - rnli.org
Registration Information- all paddlers are encouraged to register if doing the trail and it is a requirement of Scottish Canals for canal usage.
Paddle registration form Important safety advice for paddlers
The Scottish Canoe Association (SCA) works to improve access to the waterways and offers advice on canoeing and kayaking on Scotland's waters. This includes specific help and advice for those wishing to access inland waters such as canals and reservoirs. This advice along with the SCA Paddlers' Access Code can be found at www.canoescotland.org.
In our guide to Paddle Sports, find helpful safety information on;
In our guide to Paddle Sports, find helpful information on;
Through the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, those living in Scotland or visiting have some of the best access rights in the world. Everyone has the right to be on most land and inland water when visiting for recreation, education and/or travelling from one place to another as long as they act responsibly.
Access rights extend to non-motorised water-based activities such as canoeing, rafting and rowing. In following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, those visiting to enjoy non-motorised water-based activities should:
You can find out more about your access rights and responsibilities in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which is available at www.outdooraccess-scotland.com or by telephoning 01738 444177.
