Flat water, hands‑on coaching and winter wetsuits make Portknockie Harbour an ideal spot to learn stand up paddleboarding. This 2‑hour lesson focuses on balance, safety and confidence-building on the sheltered Moray Firth.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the pebbled slip and the harbour presses around you: a crescent of stone walls that calms the Moray Firth’s temper. The water sits like glass inside the breakwater, only the occasional boat wake rippling toward the shore. An instructor checks your leash and buoyancy aid, and the board becomes a new point of balance between you and the sea.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with moderate fitness; tasks include kneeling, standing and short swims during self‑rescue practice.
Wildlife
History
Portknockie grew as a herring port in the 19th century; the harbour and local stonework reflect its fishing heritage and small‑scale maritime industry.
Conservation
The Moray Firth is home to protected marine mammals; keep distance from dolphins and seals, avoid chasing wildlife, and follow the operator’s low‑impact guidelines to reduce disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Stand Up Paddleboarding Lesson in Historic Portknockie Harbour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 20 minutes early
Give time for wetsuit fitting and a safety briefing so you start relaxed and dry.
Wear a fast‑dry base layer
Even with provided 5mm wetsuits, a synthetic base layer keeps you warmer and more comfortable after the session.
Check tide and wind forecasts
The harbour is sheltered, but open‑water paddling beyond the breakwater depends on favorable wind and tide conditions.
Protect against sun and spray
Bring reef‑style sunglasses, sunscreen and a dry bag for phones and keys on sunny days.
Water shoes
Protect toes on the pebbled slip and give traction on wet surfaces.
Thermal base layer
Worn under a wetsuit for extra warmth in colder months.
winter
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, keys and spare clothes dry onshore and during transitions.
Reef sunglasses with strap
Cut glare off the sea surface and stay secured during falls.
summer