Lifestyle und Inspiration ·Jun 30, 2022

Stand Up Paddling: Proper Conduct on the Water

Stand Up Paddling: Das richtige Verhalten am Wasser

The safety of the Glory Boards community and, of course, all water sports enthusiasts is very close to our hearts, which is why we would like to provide you with an overview of tips on how to behave properly on the water in this article.

Find out about the body of water you want to paddle on

If you are paddling on a body of water for the first time, you should inform yourself about the local conditions. Is paddling allowed at all (some bodies of water are private, and water sports may be prohibited there), where are the zones where paddling is not permitted, is wearing a life jacket mandatory, and not least, you should check the weather and local weather phenomena (such as thermal wind).

Many lakes have storm warning signals, but these signals often only start shortly before a storm arrives. You should always keep an eye on the current weather and also take a look at the rain radar before a tour.

Good contacts are (local) Facebook SUP groups, local SUP schools, or surf and SUP shops. It is in the interest of local shops and schools that as few accidents as possible happen on the water. On some bodies of water, you will also find information signs describing what you need to look out for. If you are paddling in the sea, be sure to pay attention to currents and offshore wind – both can drift you so far from the shore that you cannot return to your starting position without help.

Tip: For emergencies, you should always have a mobile phone in a waterproof smartphone case or a dry bag with you so that you can call for help.

How to encounter boats, ships, and surfers on the water

Bodies of water are not only used by stand-up paddlers, canoeists, or surfers, but also by all kinds of boats and ships. To behave correctly during encounters, it is worth taking a look at the right-of-way rules for shipping (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

Stand-up paddlers and canoeists

When you encounter other stand-up paddlers, kayakers, or canoeists, or are moving towards each other, everyone should steer to the right.

Of course, also pay attention to swimmers and stay away from the swimming zone, as this – as the name suggests – is reserved for bathing people.

Anglers and fishing boats

When you see a fishing boat or an angler on the shore, you should out of consideration take a wide berth if possible, because there are usually one or more fishhooks in the water.

Kitesurfers and windsurfers

Stand-up paddling is usually not very pleasant in high winds anyway, especially if you have to fight against the wind. If you still find yourself in a situation where you encounter a kite or windsurfer, you should also paddle with foresight and, if necessary, take a wide path around the area. In principle, you should paddle in such a way that you can take evasive action, as you are the slower party in this case and can easily and quickly brake/maneuver your board.

Boats and ships

(Sailing) boats and especially large ships cannot brake or turn quickly like a car, for example, as they are subject to currents or the wind. Therefore, the "collision avoidance" rules apply on the water, which you can read up on in the shipping regulations.

Always paddle with foresight when you are on bodies of water with many boats and ships and keep enough distance from large ships, as they can create suction and large waves. Keeping your distance is the top priority with ships and boats, as they cannot and will not steer out of your way!

There are specially marked areas on some rivers and lakes that are reserved for ships, for example, because it is only deep enough for shipping there. You should definitely not enter these areas.

Also note that larger or smaller waves can be created by ships or motorboats. If you are still a bit unsure, kneel or sit on the board when a ship passes. You should turn your board so that the nose of the board points towards the ship and the waves hit you from the front. This way you avoid falling off the board due to the waves. Some ships can create very high waves that can reach you even at a great distance. (The use of a leash that fits the respective body of water should be a matter of course for your own safety!)

Tip: It doesn't hurt to paddle in high-visibility colors. This makes you easier for others to see.

Before you paddle on an unfamiliar body of water, you should inform yourself about the local rules. These include, on the one hand, protected zones that may not be entered, and on the other hand, wearing a life jacket (or a similar certified buoyancy aid like a Restube) may be mandatory. This is the case, for example, on Lake Constance or in Italy. Especially abroad, such carelessness can cost you dearly.

Never paddle into reed zones with your SUP, as this is the habitat for many animals and these are protected areas. This applies not only to boats but also to non-motorized swimming aids like stand-up paddleboards or air mattresses. Also watch out for water lilies so as not to destroy them.

Also keep an eye out for signs and buoys that mark such zones.

Additionally, we mention that trash should of course always be taken home and disposed of properly. Ideally, take trash that you see floating in the water with you from time to time, because after all, we all want to paddle on clean bodies of water.

Respect nature conservation areas on all bodies of water

Stand Up Paddling is a water sport practiced in harmony with nature. Accordingly, you should always be mindful of the nature and wildlife you might disturb while paddling.

Have fun SUPing and respect each other

Fun and enjoyment of the sport should always be the priority in Stand Up Paddling! Stand Up Paddling is a great balance to a sedentary office job and provides a full-body workout. The best things about Stand Up Paddling are probably the connection to nature and the new friendships that form through practicing this water sport.

If the various water sports enthusiasts respect each other on the water, ride considerately, and paddle with foresight, there is enough room on the water for everyone!

With that in mind, we wish you lots of fun during all your future paddling sessions and a fantastic and safe time on the water!