SUP Instructor Standards-Exposed Waters

Coastal beaches and bays
Large harbours open to the ocean and subject to 2ft swell

• shore break less than 1½ feet

• swell size less than 2ft

• no breaking waves

• wind speed less than 12 knots, offshore wind less than 10 knots

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

• at least 200 metres (660 ft) from a river mouth

• ​free from hazards 

• Suitable flat water paddle boards

• Suitable paddles with correct blade

• Coiled leashes must be fixed to the board

• ASI Level 2 Stand Up Paddle Instructor (Exposed Waters) or  ASI Level 2 Stand Up Paddle Technical Coach (Exposed Waters)

• 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 6 students to 1 fully accredited instructor  1:6 (for wind speed up to 8 Knots)
No more than 4 students to 1 fully accredited instructor  1:4 (for wind speed 8-12 knots) 
No more than 8 students to 1 fully accredited instructor  1:8  (If there are flat water conditions, no swell)  

Group Size

No more than 6 clients (1 group) to be in the one place in the water at any one time. 
If there are more than 6 clients (1 group), the groups are to be separated by a minimum 100 metres.  (for busy locations)     

If there are flat water conditions: 
No more than 8 clients (1 group) to be in the one place in the water at any one time. 
​If there are more than 8 clients (1 group), the groups are to be separated by a minimum 100 metres.  (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