By Suzanne Coulson
As a fervent Piscean with an affinity to vast bodies of water, coastal living holds a special allure, as it does to countless others who enjoy seaside living. During the lockdown period, people have been forced to the fronts in their droves, realising what an absolute gem we’ve had sitting on our doorstep. Constrained from the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, we found solace and adventure in the rugged embrace of our own North Sea.
Boasting some of the finest beaches in the UK, the pristine blue flag beaches of Whitley Bay, Longsands, and King Edwards Bay make ideal destinations for paddleboarding enthusiasts seeking a safe and enjoyable experience.
My foray all started when I watched my husband and a friend dip their toes into the sport during a taster lesson. Having already tried kayaking, paddleboarding seemed like the natural next step. Once I’d mastered the art of staying upright on the board, I found myself immersed in my happy place. Initially keeping to the confines of Cullercoats Piers, we then ventured out to visit neighbouring beaches and found ourselves incorporating sunrise paddles into our routine. Gliding through the early morning tranquillity, I’ve shared the waters with intrepid cold-water swimmers, and on lucky occasions treated to the company of passing dolphins and curious seals from the neighbouring St. Mary’s Island – encounters that have added an extra layer of magic to paddleboarding excursions.
Amidst the newfound appreciation for our coastline there emerges poignant reminders of the safety issues faced in undertaking of any water sports.
The surge in paddleboarding activities has seen a staggering 155% rise in paddleboarding incidents as highlighted by a RNLI report from 2022 compared to the previous year and this is sure to have increased with the ever-growing paddleboard community – statistics which underscore the importance of prioritising safety measures while enjoying water sports along our coastline. It’s vital to adhere to safety protocols: wearing a buoyancy aid, carrying a phone in a waterproof pouch, using the correct leash for your environment and maintaining proper board inflation. Respecting weather conditions is imperative! Even the most experienced paddler can be caught out with changing winds but being well equipped and knowledgeable of the environment can help; as can undertaking lessons from local businesses such as CBK in Cullercoats, Northerly Swell in Whitley Bay, and Tynemouth Surf Co. which provide invaluable guidance and support for novice and experienced paddlers alike.
Environmentally, concerns over water quality have been raised in certain areas, such as Cullercoats Bay where the enclosed space has become a haven for bathers and boarders seeking refuge from the challenges of open waters. As paddlers flock to these sheltered shores, efforts to address water pollution and ensure the long-term health of our coastal waters remain paramount. A Paddle Out Protest organised by Surfers Against Sewage, a UK charity, with support from Tynemouth’s Surf Yonder, stands as a testament to the growing concern over water pollution and amplifies the call for action to safeguard marine ecosystems and preserve the pristine beauty of our coastal waters.
As paddleboarding continues to captivate the hearts and minds of coastal enthusiasts eager for a stunning sunrise or a dolphin dalliance, it is imperative that we approach the activity with mindfulness, respect for the environment, and a commitment to safety – urging potential paddlers to equip themselves adequately with the appropriate knowledge while experienced enthusiasts continue their valuable support of the community – ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
