Paddleboarding in the sea begins with understanding the water conditions, as this determines how you safely get onto your board.
When approaching the water, assess whether it is calm or rough. Your entry method into the sea will depend on these conditions to ensure stability and ease.
Getting Your SUP into the Water
Entering the sea with your Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) requires different techniques based on the conditions.
Calm Water Entry
If the water is calm, getting onto your board is relatively straightforward.
- Walk into the surf: Carry your SUP into the shallow water where the small waves break (the surf).
- Board your SUP when appropriate: Once the water is deep enough to float your board but still shallow enough for you to stand beside it comfortably, you can board your SUP. This typically involves placing the board flat on the water, holding the rails, and stepping or kneeling onto the center.
Rough Water Entry
Paddling out in rougher conditions requires a more cautious approach.
- Start by laying on top of your SUP: In rougher water, it's easier to manage the board by starting on your belly. Lie flat on the center of your board.
- Paddle out to deeper water: Use your arms to paddle through the breaking waves and choppy surface until you reach deeper, potentially calmer, water beyond the surf zone.
Important Note: Heading out in choppy conditions is only recommended for strong swimmers and experienced paddle boarders. Rough seas present greater challenges and risks.
| Water Condition | Recommended Entry Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calm | Walk into shallow water, then step onto board | Suitable for beginners and experienced. |
| Rough | Lie on board, paddle out on stomach | Requires experience and strong swimming ability. |
Understanding these initial steps based on sea conditions is fundamental to starting your paddleboarding session safely in the sea.
