Paddleboarding on the Dart.

Out comes the sun, and the SUP!

It’s that time of year again when then sun start to shine, the days get longer and people head to the water for some well-earned rest and relaxation, and why not, the Dart is spectacular at this time of year.

But it’s worth remembering when you head out to keep safe. Here are some pointers.

Stay Afloat! – Wear a PFD, or personal floatation device.

Buddy up! – Try to paddle with somebody else, or join a local club.

Stay connected! – Attach your leash, ideally with a quick release around the waist. Staying with your board will definitely aid your recovery if you need help.

Stay in touch! – Tell someone where you’re going and when you’re likely to be back, carry waterproof means of contact, be it a mobile in a waterproof bag, or if you’re suitable trained, a VHF Radio.

Know your limits! – Check the tides and weather before you set off. Don’t be disheartened if you have to change your plans. Avoid offshore winds, and look for neap tides, these will be easier to paddle against.

Keep Clear! – There are often large passenger vessels plying the Dart, along with many other leisure vessels, you’ll spot them before they spot you, try to keep out of the main channel, and if you need to cross it, cross as a group rather than individually. The joy of a paddleboard is being able to access spots these vessels can’t.

Incidents? – If you get into difficulty, stay with your gear and call for help, in an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. We also ask that any near misses or other incidents are reported on our website at…

https://www.dartharbour.org/about-dart-harbour/port-safety/incident-reporting-and-monitoring/report/