ASI has created the international standards for SUP rentals.
Supervised Rentals
Rental boards are offered at a specified location within an allocated paddling area.
The renter has flexibility to paddle within and around the specified paddling area.
The paddler may not be in sight at all times.
However, the SUP instructor is in attendance at all times, monitoring the conditions and times the paddlers should return to shore, to ensure paddlers remain safe.
Unsupervised Rentals
Unsupervised rentals is where the renter picks up a board and the instructor has no ability to monitor the conditions or where the renter goes paddling.
Unsupervised SUP rentals are a potential high risk of death and injury to self and others.
Renters:
May not understand the hazards of SUP boards, leashes, water and weather
May have poor fitness, poor paddling ability and cannot get back to shore if there are strong currents or wind conditions suddenly change
Go to locations that are unsafe / unsuitable for SUP
Go to locations where SUP is not permitted
Go into the ocean and surf zone becoming a hazard to themselves and others
Go in conditions beyond their ability
Go out in weather conditions not suitable for paddling (high winds, lightning)
Not wear a leash. Potential to become separated from their board and have to swim a long distance
All renters should have paddling experience prior to renting SUP boards.
Instructors and Centres Offering SUP Rentals:
Provides rentals to people with some paddling experience
Identifies suitable and safe paddling locations for unsupervised rentals
Provides the renter with paddling location maps and emergency response contact details
Provide suitable rental boards, paddle and suitable leash and instruction on use of leash
The Renter:
Confirms they have paddling experience and knowledge of wind and weather conditions
Confirms they can swim 50 metres (130 ft)
Agrees to only paddle in the designated paddling areas
Agrees to paddle with a buddy (not alone)
Agrees to wear the leash at all times