Stand-up Paddleboarding In Sydney

By Ben Stephens.

You can see Sydney Harbour in a number of ways, from helicopter flights to bridge walks and ferry rides. These options give you intimate look at the famed waterfront city, though nothing brings you closer to the harbour than trying not to fall off a 9ft piece of fiberglass as you whip those core muscles into shape and challenge sea breezes and the laws of gravity. When it comes to stand-up paddleboarding or SUP, Sydney has many choices, from Rose Bay on the city side of things or over the water at Balmoral Beach for a little stand up action. Whichever you fancy, here is a small collection of highly recommended paddlers that are sure to have you dominating the sport out on the harbour.

Watsons Bay Stand Up Paddling

The team at WATSSUP (best use of an acronym) are based on the Eastern harbour tip that is Watsons Bay. Owned by Bondi Lifeguard Terry McDermott and friends, these guys will have you standing up in the sheltered bay looking towards the city skyline. Offering everything you need from fitness, group/individual training and even kid sessions, you’ll be sorted with a board, paddle and bestowed with all the safety and SUP techniques that you’ll need to start shredding.

Sydney Scenic SUP

This is where you are going to get out and get touring via your lightweight shred stick, or board. Sydney Scenic is based out of Mosman, over on the North Shore. This tour will get you out on the harbour, while skilfully dodging ferries and other water craft as you learn to ride the wake, brah. The tour also includes refreshments and and a post tour picnic. Allow about 2 hours for the entire tour, including a little training to begin with.

Rose Bay Aquatic Hire

Don’t want to be taught, fairly sure you can balance and control the board? Make tracks to Rose Bay, look for the the boards on the beach and have a chat with the team. They’ll set you up with a board, paddle and some encouragement before sending you on your way. By far the easiest and cheapest way to get out on the water.

Work Out on Water

Tired of your regular yoga session in a 36-degree room, then why not take your practice out on the harbour and add a little core stabilization to your next chaturanga… Tempted? The team at WOOW (second best use of acronym) will supply the boards and lead you through a deep stretch session out on the pond. Good luck with this one.