ACTIVE | A Family Guide to Getting Into SUP This Summer
Collaboration
Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors and try something new! What better way to keep cool and create lasting memories than out on a stand up paddle board! Being on a SUP with your family is a great way to bond whilst also getting out and exercising on the water. So, whether you’re looking to relax and take in the scenery or to go on a big family adventure and play lots of games, buying a Bluefin is the right choice!
When deciding which board to purchase, you want something that is stable, versatile and that will stand the test of time. For families, our all-around paddleboards are the best choice. The Cruise and Lite have been designed for both beginners and advanced paddlers in mind, designed for stability and ensuring that you have a smooth experience out on the water.
If you want to be on the same paddleboard, our tandem 15’ or 12’ Cruise is a perfect choice to share as they fit multiple people (and pups!). However, if you have a small child you could put them on our 9’8 / 10’8 Cruise or Lite paddleboard and it would work just as well!
You can make your time out on the water even more fun with some interactive games, here’s a couple of my favourite ones to play!
Paddle Races
Who doesn’t love a good sprint race?! You can play this multiple ways depending on how many SUPs you have. Timed races, head to head, team relay, who doesn’t love a bit of friendly family competition!
Paddle Tag
Similar to just a normal game of tag but make it on the water, there’s only one rule, don’t be ‘it’!
Essential SUP Gear
Once you have your paddleboard you need some essential gear that will make your journeys worry and hassle-free.
Dri-Tide Deck Bag
Our waterproof Bluefin Dri-Tide deck bag is the perfect bit of kit to accompany you out on the water, with space for snacks, water, anything needed for your adventure.
E-Swift Lite
Hand pumping a paddleboard is no easy task, which is why the E-Swift Lite pump quickly became a SUP essential. Plug it into your car and let it pump up your board easily.
Life jackets
Water can be unpredictable, so even the most confident swimmers should wear a life jacket. It’ll give you that peace of mind that if anyone falls in or gets tired whilst out on the water, they are safe and buoyant.
SUP Safety to Consider
Weather
Just like the water can be unpredictable, so can the weather. Check weather forecasts before heading out to make sure that you’re not paddling into any storms, strong winds or high temperatures.
Supervision
Whilst paddleboarding is generally safe it is always best practice to supervise kids (and adults too) whilst they are out on the water. Be ready to lend a hand if required, especially whilst beginners are still getting the hang of paddleboarding.
Where to go paddleboarding with your family
Here are some ideal locations to take your SUP out on its next adventure.
Lakes
Calm, flat waters make lakes the ideal location for a family paddleboarding adventure. With no off-shore winds or waves, everyone can enjoy a day by the lake!
Gentle Rivers
Slow moving currents can provide that sense of adventure whilst also being safe. Make sure to choose a river route that has been recommended as safe and calm for beginners, especially if you have young children with you.
Coastal Areas
Calm beaches or protected bays can offer the perfect place to paddle with your family. Ensure that you are looking for an area that is away from strong currents or busy harbours.
Ready to get started?
Now that you know why paddleboarding is such a fantastic family activity, why not take the plunge and make it part of your summer routine? Whether you’re new to paddleboarding or a seasoned pro, there’s a Bluefin SUP board for every family!
Where to next?
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From open water swimming, snowboarding and kayaking to hill walks and meditation, Shell shares her travels and microadventures here on the blog and in various publications she's written for, Shell has a particular interest in promoting wellbeing and the many benefits of nature therapy.
