Is this activity suitable for children?

Yes, children under 18 can participate with adult supervision and life jackets provided.

Do I need prior paddling experience?

No experience is necessary; instructions are given on-site to ensure beginners feel comfortable.

Wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring a waterproof layer if needed; swimwear under can be convenient.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, buoyancy aids are included and must be worn at all times for safety.

What if the weather is bad?

Activities are weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, sessions may be postponed or canceled.

Can I extend my session?

Bookings are for one hour; additional time can be requested if available, at the discretion of staff.

Paddleboard Pay & Play at Chatham Maritime Trust

In the busy waters surrounding Chatham in Kent, a unique urban waterfront offers a refreshing twist on outdoor adventure with the Paddleboard Pay & Play experience. This activity transforms the city’s saltwater shoreline into a vibrant paddling playground, giving families and water enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the coast in a setting that combines urban energy with natural beauty. The Chatham Maritime Trust provides an accessible one-hour session, where participants under 18 can join with adult supervision, making it perfect for families seeking a safe, fun, and active outing.

Participants are supplied with buoyancy aids as they step onto paddleboards that float effortlessly above the saltwater. With calm, protected waters and straightforward instruction, even novices can feel confident while learning basic paddling techniques. The shallow, urban coastline features distinctive jetties and a lively maritime backdrop, all while being within minutes of the city’s center. The experience invites visitors to witness the rhythm of the water, spot local seabirds, and enjoy a different perspective of Chatham’s historic port area.

The activity’s central appeal lies in its combination of accessibility and adventure. The saltwater environment creates a buoyant, forgiving surface perfect for first-timers and those looking to unwind while staying active. The Trust’s commitment to safety and family-friendly programming ensures fun without worry, making it a standout option for locals and visitors alike. What makes this paddleboarding experience exceptional is its proximity to urban landmarks, allowing paddlers to combine water fun with sightseeing. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned paddler, this activity offers a chance to connect with the water while enjoying one of Kent’s most storied coastlines.

For those visiting Kent and seeking a straightforward, enjoyable water adventure with a local touch, Paddleboard Pay & Play is an ideal choice that gets you on the water fast and safely, leaving you with lasting memories of Chatham’s waterfront.

About Chatham Maritime Trust

Chatham Maritime Trust operates watersports and coastal leisure experiences on Saint Mary's Island, England. The Trust offers a diverse programme of self-launch and pay & play activities including paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing/wingsupping, pedalos and an inflatable Aquapark.

Sessions range from short family rides to certified introductory courses such as the two-day Adult Level 1 Start Sailing course and two-hour Start Kayaking beginners’ course. Many pay & play options supply buoyancy aids and require appropriate supervision for under-18s; the Aquapark sessions specify lifeguard cover and buoyancy aid provision. Self-launch options allow experienced participants to bring their own paddleboards, kayaks or windsurfing equipment while following safety guidance and self-rescue expectations.

Family-oriented experiences include Paddleboard Pay & Play, Kayak Pay & Play and Pedalo hire, with age guidance and adult supervision encouraged for younger paddlers. The Trust also runs improvers’ sailing sessions for young sailors, open water swim opportunities and themed Adventure Day events. Chatham Maritime Trust focuses on accessible coastal recreation within an urban saltwater environment at Saint Mary's Island, making watersports approachable for local residents and visitors.

The Trust’s programmes emphasise skill development, environmental awareness and on-water safety through clear session descriptions and supervised courses where stated. Visitors can choose from casual hourly activities, skill-building courses or self-directed sessions to suit ability levels and family groups. All activities and course details are published in session summaries to help visitors select suitable experiences. Booking information and specific session times are provided on the Trust's listings to assist planning and ensure availability.