Paddleboarding in Turks and Caicos
There are many reasons why paddleboarding is becoming so popular in Turks and Caicos. First of all, it’s very easy to learn. All it takes is a bit of balance and the ability to use an oar. Second of all, it’s a great way to explore waterways that you might not be able to access in a boat. Finally, the fact that you’re standing on a board allows you to see incredible views above and below the water. If you’re looking to do some paddle boarding in Turks and Caicos, these are some things you should know.
What is Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP Boarding)?
Paddleboarding originated in Hawaii as a way for surf instructors to get better views of their students and the wave conditions. Basically, it involves standing on a surf-style board and using a long oar to propel you through the water.
Paddle Boarding vs Paddle Surfing, What’s the Difference?
Stand-up paddleboarding is typically done in calm waters where you can easily glide across the surface and steer the board in different directions with your paddle. As the name suggests, paddle surfing involves riding or surfing waves on a board with a paddle. Paddle surfing is not very common in Turks and Caicos because there are very few swells to ride.
Where Can You Paddle Board in Turks & Caicos?
You can paddle board anywhere in Turks and Caicos where the water is calm. Long Bay Beach is a great place for paddle boarding because there are very few large waves. In addition, the water is quite shallow and the bottom is soft and sandy, which is great for beginners who might not have their balance down in the beginning. Guests staying at Triton Luxury Villa can paddle board directly from the beach in front of the villa.
What Equipment do You Need?
The only equipment you need to paddle board is the actual board and a long oar. A paddle boarding company can set you up with the right board and oar for your height and size.
Do You Have to Be Fit to Paddleboard?
You only need a basic level of fitness and a bit of balance to learn how to paddle board. The hardest physical part is using the oar to propel you forward and steer the board. That being said, paddle boarding is a great exercise because it works your whole body, especially your core.
What Can You See on a Paddle Board Tour?
The great thing about paddleboarding is that you can cruise along shallow and narrow waterways that boats can’t reach, so you can see more than you would on a boat charter trip. In addition, paddle boarding is relatively quiet, so it doesn’t scare away wildlife and sea creatures like motorised water sports do. Many paddle board tours in Turks and Caicos will take you to protected national parks and through the mangroves where you can see turtles, sharks, sea birds, and much more. And of course you’ll get to take in the natural beauty of the coastlines and turquoise ocean.
Paddle Board Suppliers
Big Blue Collective
Big Blue Collective is a tour company that offers daily paddle board tours in the waters around Providenciales. You can opt for a two-hour eco-tour to the mangroves or a backcountry paddle ‘safari’ to little-visited spots along tidal channels. Groups sizes are kept small for a more exclusive experience and the instructors are friendly and very knowledgeable about the area and ecology. Experience is not necessary for the two-hour tour, as the instructors can teach you the basics and have you riding in no time.
