*The term Canoe is used as a generic name but in paddlesport there are many different types of craft that are manually propelled using a paddle. A Canoe is paddled using a single bladed paddle either in the sitting or kneeling position, the Canoe can have an open cockpit or a closed one, that is with a spray deck. A Kayak is paddled sitting down with a double ended paddle and is more likely to have a closed cockpit.
Regular paddlers generally refer to them as 'boats', either racing boat, play boat, sea boat, open boat, etc.

Come and Try

Unaccompanied Juniors: Whilst we would much prefer that a parent or responsible adult is in attendance either on the water or waiting on the bank we understand that on some occasions this may not be possible. We have BCU qualified coaches with the necessary CRB checks in place who are prepared to take responsibility for juniors but these members may not always be available for a particular session. Parents are asked to check on the CLUB Diary  page for any comments about the suitability of forthcoming sessions at the club. Paddlers at Maidstone Canoe Club are not covered by any Club insurance against personal injury but are covered by third party indemnity insurance provided by BCU affiliation, provided they are members of the club or have paid for day membership and are being supervised by club members.
The best day to do this is on a Sunday morning at about 9:30, the sessions lasts about 3 hours. Just turn up and ask one of the regulars, the ones with the canoeing kit on, about having a go and they will either help you themselves or introduce you to somebody who will find you a boat, paddle and buoyancy aid. They will
probably ask you a few questions like : have you paddled before?, can you swim? etc.

You will need to bring a change of clothing and a towel. Please see our what to wear.doc or what to wear.pdf for some useful tips on the cloths to wear for canoeing, especially in the colder weather.

We make a charge of £5 per session to cover the cost of the upkeep of club equipment, any coaching given is informal for which no charge is made.

The first time you paddle a general purpose kayak it will not go where you want it to, this is quite normal, it takes a bit of practice to paddle in a straight line and is not as easy as it looks.

There are different types of canoes* and kayaks that are used for different types of paddling. The main interests of Maidstone Canoe Club members are general flat water paddling, marathon and sprint racing, white water and sea touring. If you haven't paddled a canoe before you are strongly advised to try a few first before you buy one. We have a selection of canoes and kayaks that you are welcome to try out to see which one suits your needs best.
You are welcome to come and have a go at Canoeing
Please note that on some Sunday mornings there may not be any regular paddlers to help you so please check the Club Diary for likely activities for the coming Sunday  .... if necessary please try another Sunday