Paddle boarders on the River Wye

The exceptionally hot summer has brought what appears to be an exceptional number of watersports ethusiasts and first-timers to the River Wye at Ross on Wye. Canoeists, either with their own craft, or using one rented out by the commercial companies, are in a majority. However, paddle boards are quickly catching up. The question for each paddle boarder to answer is; to stand, kneel or sit? These three standing paddle boarders are atypical in that two appear to be carrying items in waterproof bags and the third has forgotten to attach the cord to his body.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Lumix FZ1000 2

Paddle boarding

According to my research paddle boards have been around for longer than I imagined. However, they didn't become widespread, as far as I know, until twenty or so years ago, and in terms of me noticing them, about five years ago. Now I see them in all seasons apart from winter on the River Wye in Herefordshire, and when I go to any recreational river or seaside they are usually present. I've never tried one, but to me they seem to have few advantages over canoes apart from lower cost and easier transport. On our recent visit to the south coast they were everywhere including the cove at Beer, Devon.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Lumix FZ1000 2