Q. Can I just hire a board?
As a stand up paddle boarding (SUP) school we do not offer just equipment hire for a multitude of reasons. Sydney Harbour is a beautiful place to explore but can also be dangerous to those unequipped with knowledge of the harbour and the areas which must be avoided. As Sydney Harbour is an exposed water location, wind and swell can have a huge effect on the water conditions, which can be extremely testing even for advanced paddlers if caught out by sudden change, misjudgment or misdirection. Our sessions are designed for paddlers of all abilities but by having an instructor guide you during your experience, we can eliminate any potential risks and dangers – all equipment hire is included with each session.
Q. I HAVEN’T SUPed before can I still have a go?
Of course! Everybody has to start somewhere right? Check out our lessons to see which lesson style suits you.
Q. I HAVE paddled before – do I have to have a lesson?
If you feel you are a competent paddler and don’t need a lesson, we have both private & group cruises which take you around some of the most beautiful bays and beaches found in Sydney Harbour – check out our different cruise options and see what takes your fancy. If you haven’t paddled in a while and think your technique may just be a little rusty we can give you a quick refresher before we head out.
Q. Do you have a minimum age for kids?
We have a minimum age of 8 years. If you are booking into an open group we have a minimum age of 12 years and each child under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Q. Do you have parking near you?
WATSSUP operates from our van which is parked on Military Road, directly outside of Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel which is located at 1 Military Rd, Watsons Bay, NSW, 2030. There is free parking along Marine Parade, adjacent to the hotel and additional street parking in the surrounding streets. Watsons Bay does have limited parking so we recommend catching public transport or getting an Uber or taxi if possible.
Q. What do I need to bring with me?
We recommend bringing sun cream, a hat (preferably a cap), sunglasses (with a strap or a pair you wouldn’t mind losing!), a change of clothes, swimwear and a towel. We have T-shirts, caps & sun cream available should you forget yours.
Q. I can’t swim, can I still have a go?
You can still SUP if you can’t swim just be sure to let your instructor know before the lesson so that you can be provided with a life jacket. If you choose not to wear a life jacket you must be able to swim a minimum of 50 metres.
Q. How do I get to you?
You can get to Watsons Bay by bus, ferry or car. Catching a ferry to Watsons Bay is a quick and easy way to get here and the views along the way are stunning. The ferry drops you off at Watsons Bay Wharf, only a minute’s walk from our van; the ferry is just a 15 minute ride from Manly and Circular Quay. OR public buses come frequently to Watsons Bay. Catch the 324/325 bus from Circular Quay via Edgecliff or take the 380 from Bondi.
Q. Will I get wet?
YES! This is a water sport and it’s likely that you may fall in and even if you don’t we often stop for a swim at one of the beautiful beaches!
Q. What if it’s raining?
We still SUP in the rain! We would only cancel your booking if we the weather is deemed too dangerous to SUP in.
Q. What if the session gets cancelled because of the weather?
If your session gets cancelled due to the weather then we will credit your account for the full amount you paid at time of booking (unless you booked through a third party.) You are then free to rebook your session for another day that suits you. We do keep constant watch on the weather and we will give you as much warning as possible should we need to cancel your booking because of dangerous conditions.We do have a no refund policy.
Q. What if I need to cancel my booking?
If you need to cancel your booking as long as you give us 2 days notice then we will either reschedule your booking or credit your account so that you can rebook your session for a date and time which suits you. We have a no refund policy.
Q. Do you have changing & shower facilities?
We operate from our WATSSUP van which is parked outside the Watsons Bay Hotel but you can use the hotel toilets to change before and after your session. One hot shower is available in the toilets and a fresh water shower is accessible on the beachfront.
Q. Is there somewhere I can leave my belongings?
Yes, all of your belongings & any valuables can be left in our van which will be locked. WATSSUP cannot be he held responsible for the loss or damage of any personal items.