SUP Instructor Standards - Enclosed Flat Waters

Inland waterways including rivers, lakes, lagoons, estuaries, canals, small enclosed harbours.

• Flat water with no swell or breaking waves 

• Wind speed less than 12 knots

• Minimal water flow (less than 2 knots)

• Water depth no less than 1m (3ft) 

• A minimum of 200 metres (650ft) from river mouth 

• No more than 250 metres (820ft) from shore

• Free from hazards (hazards includes: boats, boat ramps rocks, fishing lines, submerged objects, oyster beds, pollution, dangerous marine creatures, etc.)

• Suitable flat water paddle boards

• Suitable paddles with correct blade

• Coiled leashes must be fixed to the board

• ASI Level 1 Stand Up Paddle Instructor (Enclosed Flat Water) or  ASI Level 1 Stand Up Paddle Technical Coach (Enclosed Flat Water)

• Current Water Rescue or Surf Rescue 

• Current Senior First Aid

• Working with children check (as applicable to the country)

Age

At least 8 years of age (guide only – to take into consideration strength needed to paddle against wind and tide).

Entry Requirements

Able to swim 50 metres (165ft)

Instructor to Student Ratio

No more than 8 students to 1 fully accredited instructor (1:8)

Group Size

No more than 8 students (1 group) to be in the one place in the water at any one time.   (for busy locations)    

The groups are to be separated by a minimum 100 metres (328ft).  (for busy locations)

• Students and instructors wear leash at all times

• In shallow water and water depth less than 3ft and on entry and exit to water, participants must paddle on knees or bum

• The instructor is to be on a board, in the water, close to students at all times