SUP Instructor Standards - Downwind

Coastal ocean locations.

• ​Wind behind or on quarter

• Wind speed greater than 12 knots up to 20 knots

• Swell size up to 4ft

• May be white capping waves

• Paddling distances of up to 10 kms (6 miles)

• Distance from shore up to 500 metres (1,640 ft)

• Free from hazards (hazards includes: boats, rocks, pollution, dangerous marine creatures, etc.)

• Downwind SUP paddle board (minimum 12ft 6")

• Suitable paddle with correct blade

• Coiled leashes of correct length must be fixed to the board

• SUP clothing suitable for paddling

• Hydration - camel back or water bottle

• Energy food

• Watch – ideally a GPS watch

• ASI Level 3 Stand Up Paddle Instructor (Downwind)

• Current Surf Rescue 

• Current Senior First Aid

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

Age

At least 12 years of age (guide only – to take into consideration strength needed to paddle against wind and tide).

Entry Requirements

• Able to swim 100 metres (328 ft)

• Exposed waters stand up paddle skills

• Ocean safety knowledge, skills and awareness

Instructor to Student Ratio

No more than 4 students to 1 fully accredited instructor (1:4)

Group Size

No more than 4 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

• Regroup at regular intervals