Stand-up paddleboarding
Paddleboard hire on the River Hamble
Stable inflatable boards for first-timers, touring boards for confident paddlers, and a quick briefing from the team before you set off from Swanwick Marina.
From £19.50 per person, per hour
Stand up and see the river differently
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the simplest ways to get out on the water. You stand on a wide, stable board and use a single paddle to move along, which gives you a great view over the river and along its wooded banks.
From our base beside the slipway at Swanwick Marina, you can head towards neighbouring Universal Marina or explore further upriver. Before you set off, we'll suggest a route that suits your experience and the tide on the day.
First time on a board?
Most of our paddleboarders are beginners. Our inflatable hire boards are wide and forgiving, and most people start on their knees before standing once they feel steady. Expect a wobble or two, and dress as if you might get wet.
If you'd like someone alongside you while you learn, have a look at our lessons before booking independent hire.
Already paddled? Try a touring board
Our touring hire uses Moloko 12'6" boards. They're longer and quicker than an all-round board, so they suit paddlers who are already confident and want to cover more of the river.
Before you book
Paddleboard hire at a glance
What's included
- Inflatable paddleboard (or touring board)
- Paddle
- Buoyancy aid
- Safety briefing and route advice
Who can hire
- Minimum age 12
- Under-18s must be accompanied on the water by an adult
- One person per board
- We're unable to take anyone who is pregnant
What to bring
- Clothes that can get wet, and footwear that stays on
- A change of clothes and a towel
- Your phone in a waterproof pouch or dry bag
- A deposit item, such as a bank card or car keys
On the day
How your paddleboard hire works
-
Arrive 30 minutes early
Sign in, get changed and watch our short induction video.
-
Learn the basics on land
We fit your buoyancy aid and show you how to hold the paddle, kneel and stand.
-
Head out
Start on your knees, stand when you feel steady and follow the route we suggest.
-
Come back and relax
Return your board, sign back in and grab a drink.
Will I fall in?
You might. Most beginners have a wobble or two, and some end up in the water at least once. Everyone wears a buoyancy aid, and we'll show you how to climb back on during your briefing. Dress for getting wet and bring a change of clothes.
Can two people share a paddleboard?
No, our paddleboards are for one person each. If you'd like to paddle together, a double kayak is a good option.
Who are the touring boards for?
Paddlers who are already comfortable on a board. Our Moloko 12'6" touring boards are longer and faster, so they take a little more control but let you cover more of the river.
I'm nervous. Should I book a lesson instead?
If you'd like an instructor alongside you, a lesson is a great way to start. Have a look at our lessons page or call us to talk it through. You could also start in a kayak and try a board another time.
Prefer to sit down?
Try a sit-on-top kayak
Kayaks are the easiest way onto the Hamble if you'd rather stay dry, and a double kayak lets two of you paddle together.
Ready to stand up?
Book your paddleboard
Choose a date and time, and we'll see you at Swanwick.