The Boatshed At Woronora

Stand-Up Paddle Bird

Every so often, and more often than you’d think considering the season, we get an enquiry about hiring out Stand-Up Paddle boards. Like all new investments, one has to weigh up the costs and benefits and we’ve been pondering what sort of board to get, how many, etc when an instructor from the Cronulla Stand-Up Paddle Board School dropped in for a coffee after paddling on the Woronora River.

Within a couple of days Todd was on the phone to see if we had any interest and offered to lend us a couple of his hire boards. One of the things we have to evaluate with any new boat is the logistics – where and how to store it, how to access it when the cafe is busy, what instructions and guidance need to be given to hirers, etc, so this was a great opportunity to see what the usage difficulty and the public interest level would be. A few days later two boards turned up, with paddles and safety straps, so well done Todd for being so proactive.

We’re offering the boards at a rate between a kayak and a canoe – $13 for the first half hour and $7.00 per half hour after that.  So far our only customer has been this little grey heron and he didn’t have his wallet with him so I just let him practice at bit.

Yes, the water is a bit chilly but there’s still a few people out on their boards. No, you don’t have to get wet – my first time on the board I stepped off the jetty onto the board, paddled up and down the creek and stepped off again; mind you, I made sure no-one was around with a camera, just in case! Come at low tide if you like and reduce the chances of a full-body immersion and make it easier to get back on.

Do you need lessons? Like most things, you can get on and “have a go” but if you want to get maximum benefit and enjoyment from the sport I recommend at least a familiarisation lesson and assessment of your competence. If nothing else, paddling properly will reduce the ache in your body after a long paddle. Not only will you have the proper technique but the extra confidence will help you relax and less tenseness equals less tired muscles.

We only have two boards at present, so call us on 02 9545 2584 to check they are available. Get in quick before the spring rush! We also do coffee and hot chocolate to warm you up afterwards.