Stand Up Paddle boarding | SUP
Stand Up Paddle Boarding Northern Ireland
Stand up paddle boarding in Northern Ireland is one of the most accessible, enjoyable, and fast-growing water sports, and Strangford Lough Activity Centre offers professionally delivered SUP sessions in one of the most outstanding coastal environments in the country. Based on the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down, we provide instructor-led stand up paddle boarding experiences for beginners, improvers, groups, and organisations looking to enjoy the water safely and confidently.
Often referred to simply as SUP, stand up paddle boarding is a versatile activity that combines balance, gentle physical activity, and exploration. It is suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities and is an ideal introduction to water sports in Northern Ireland. Our SUP sessions focus on confidence, technique, safety, and enjoyment, allowing participants to progress at a comfortable pace while experiencing Strangford Lough from a unique perspective.
SUP Lessons in Northern Ireland
Our stand up paddle boarding lessons in Northern Ireland are suitable for complete beginners as well as those who have paddled before and want to improve their skills. No previous experience is required, and all sessions begin with a clear introduction and safety briefing.
SUP lessons cover key skills including:
- Board Control and Balance
- Efficient Paddle Technique
- Turning and Manoeuvring
- Self Rescue and Water Safety
- Awareness of Wind, Tides, and Environment
Ready to Ride Sessions
For those new to the sport, we run regular Ready to Ride SUP sessions, which are open, instructor-led lessons designed to give participants a strong introduction to stand up paddle boarding.
These sessions are ideal if you want to try SUP before committing to a longer course. Ready to Ride sessions typically last two hours and run daily, with morning, afternoon, and evening options available depending on demand and conditions.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of SUP while enjoying a guided paddle through sheltered waters and scenic surroundings.
Wildlife awareness
Minimise disturbance
Responsible access
Please read our booking terms and conditions before booking.
Special Group Offer
Book 4 or more people for 2 hours and save 12.5% using the voucher code BIG-GROUP-2HR-SUP on your booking.
Equipment and Boards
Strangford Lough Activity Centre uses high-quality, industry-leading equipment to ensure comfort, stability, and performance on the water. We provide wide and stable paddle boards that are ideal for beginners and group sessions.
Our equipment includes boards from leading brands such as Red Paddle Co and Starboard, recognised for their quality and reliability. All boards, paddles, and safety equipment are regularly checked and maintained.
We Provide
- Stand up paddle boards suitable for beginners and tours
- Adjustable paddles
- Wetsuit and buoyancy aids
- Leashes where appropriate
You Bring
- Nose Clip
- Goggles or Face Mask
- Rash Vest
- Swimming Costume
- Towel
SUP for Groups
Stand up paddle boarding is an excellent group activity and is popular with groups of friends, schools, youth organisations, community groups, and corporate teams. Group SUP sessions can be organised to suit your availability and objectives, subject to weather and conditions.
SLAC can typically accommodate up to 45 participants, on a mixture of individual paddle boards and large mega sups that can take up to ten participants depending on conditions and supervision ratios. Our instructors ensure sessions are inclusive, supportive, and enjoyable for all participants.
Team Building & Communication
Confidence Building & Personal Development
Reward & Enrichment Activities
Perfect Introduction to Paddle Boarding
Other SUP Activities and Experiences
In addition to lessons and group sessions, we offer a range of SUP-based experiences and activities, including:
Paddle Board Tours
Join one of our guided SUP tours using high-quality touring boards. Tours explore scenic routes, islands, and points of interest on Strangford Lough and can also be arranged at other suitable locations across Northern Ireland. Minimum numbers apply.
Birthday Parties
Join one of our guided SUP tours using high-quality touring boards. Tours explore scenic routes, islands, and points of interest on Strangford Lough and can also be arranged at other suitable locations across Northern Ireland. Minimum numbers apply.
Events
We organise a range of SUP events and experiences throughout the year, including popular options such as Sunrise SUP and island Yoga sessions, Singles SUP, Sunset Paddle & BBQ, Full Moon Paddles. Larger group and multi-activity events can also be arranged on request.
Skill Courses
Learn to SUP in more depth on our structured paddle board skills courses. These courses cover strokes, turning, balance, rescues, safety, and the theory of tides and weather. Courses typically run over several weeks and provide a solid foundation for confident paddling. We have courses for beginners and improvers.
Instructor Courses
Strangford Lough Activity Centre is a recognised BSUPA and Paddle NI qualification provider. We offer instructor courses and leadership courses, including BSUPA Level 1 and Level 2 SUP Instructor qualifications, BCAB Paddle Sports Instructor, Paddle Sport Leader, and PSRT courses for those wishing to work in the industry or lead groups.
Mobile Sessions
As a mobile activity provider, Strangford Lough Activity Centre can deliver stand up paddle boarding sessions at suitable locations across Northern Ireland. Mobile SUP sessions are ideal for schools, organisations, and events with access to calm water environments.
Contact us to discuss your requirements.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding on Strangford Lough
Strangford Lough is widely regarded as one of the best places to paddle board in Northern Ireland. A sheltered haven of bays, inlets, drumlin islands, and historic landmarks, the lough provides calm and manageable conditions that are ideal for learning and exploring by paddle board.
Paddling on Strangford Lough allows participants to enjoy scenic coastal views and quiet waterways while remaining close to shore. Sessions are carefully planned around weather, wind, and tidal conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the water.
Our instructors have detailed local knowledge and select suitable launch points and routes based on group ability and conditions on the day.
Sheltered waters suitable for beginners
Scenic views of islands, shoreline, and historic features
Calm conditions for learning balance and paddle technique
Opportunities to explore quietly and responsibly
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to Bring?
Bring a towel, sun protection & shoes that you can wear on the water
What is Provided?
Paddle Board, Paddle, Leash, Wetsuits & Buoyancy Aids Provided
Who is it Suitable For?
Depends on wind and weather. We recommend it is suitable for for ages 8+ if paddling alone. Young participants can join in. However may need to be tethered to an instructor or share a board with parents. Please note that we also have Mega SUP’s where the whole family can paddle together.
What weight is it suitable for?
Our boards can accommodate all shapes and sizes. We have larger boards for larger people and smaller boards for smaller people. A basic level of fitness is required.
Duration?
Our ready to ride sessions are 2 hours in duration (not including kit up time). However for group sessions we can tailor sessions to your requirements and budgets.
Do you need to be able to swim?
We provide buoyancy aids and leashes which help you to float and remain attached to board. Therefore, as long as you can float with confidence without panicking, you will be fine.
Where do we meet?
Most paddle board sessions start from Whiterock Bay Launch Point