10 Frequently Asked Questions About Paddleboarding & Kayaking in Cornwall
Planning a paddleboarding or kayaking adventure in Cornwall? Falmouth River Watersports is a family-run, dog-friendly watersports centre based at Mylor Yacht Harbour on the Fal Estuary. Whether you're hiring equipment for the first time or looking for the best places to paddle, this guide answers some of the questions we hear most often.
Our aim is to provide a safe and friendly environment for paddlers of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced adventurers looking to explore the beautiful waters around Mylor Harbour and the Carrick Roads.
Why Paddleboard or Kayak at Mylor Harbour?
The sheltered waters of the Fal Estuary make Mylor Harbour one of the best locations in Cornwall for paddleboarding and kayaking. Beginners can enjoy calm conditions, while more experienced paddlers can explore creeks, estuaries and rivers throughout the area.
Do I Need Experience to Paddleboard or Kayak?
No. Many people hire a paddleboard or kayak with little or no previous experience. If you're new to paddlesports, calmer conditions and shorter hire periods are a great way to build confidence on the water.
How Long Should I Hire Equipment For?
An hour is ideal if you want to try paddleboarding or kayaking for the first time. Three hours gives you plenty of time to explore Mylor Creek or paddle to The Pandora Inn. Full-day hires are popular with more adventurous paddlers wanting to explore further afield.
Where Can You Paddle from Mylor Harbour?
The Fal Estuary offers a fantastic variety of routes, from sheltered creeks and quiet inlets to longer journeys towards Restronguet Creek, the upper Fal and surrounding waterways. The best route will always depend on weather and tide conditions on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. There is a public pay and display car park at Mylor Yacht Harbour. If the first car park is full, additional parking is available further up the valley near Café Mylor.
We recommend arriving around 15 minutes before your session. This allows time for parking, signing in, reading booking information and getting kitted up before heading onto the water.
This depends on the weather conditions. In warm weather, shorts and a t-shirt are often suitable. On cooler days, extra layers or a wetsuit may be more comfortable. Please remember that you will need to step into the water when launching.
Yes. Wetsuits are available to hire. We recommend booking in advance if you think you may need one.
An hour is a great introduction. Three hours gives you time to explore Mylor Creek or visit The Pandora Inn, while a full day allows experienced paddlers to travel much further.
We offer both single and double kayaks. Single kayaks can often accommodate a small child or dog, while double kayaks provide more space and comfort for two paddlers.
Yes. We are a dog-friendly watersports centre and many customers enjoy taking their dogs out on the water. Calm conditions and a gradual introduction are always recommended.
No. Paddleboard and kayak hire is suitable for beginners as well as experienced paddlers. Many customers are trying the activity for the first time.
All activities include a buoyancy aid. Kayaks come with paddles, back supports and safety equipment. Paddleboards include paddles and leashes.
Yes. The sheltered waters around Mylor Harbour are often ideal for beginners learning to paddleboard for the first time.
Kayaks are paddled while seated and generally offer more stability. Paddleboards are paddled standing up, although many beginners start by kneeling until they gain confidence.
Yes. Buoyancy aids are included with all activities and should be worn while on the water.