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23 Years
experience
Adventure Watersports in New Quay, Wales
Established in 2003, Cardigan Bay Watersports has grown from a community development project into a leading provider of watersports experiences in West Wales. As a registered charity and Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Training Centre, we specialise in delivering RYA-certified courses and equipment hire for sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and emerging sports like wingsurfing. Our team of highly qualified instructors holds national governing body qualifications, with ongoing professional development ensuring the highest standards of safety and instruction. We operate from a purpose-built facility in New Quay, home to Europe's largest bottlenose dolphin population, offering visitors unique opportunities to engage with marine wildlife while adhering to strict conservation protocols.

Our Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) certification enables us to run group sessions for schools, clubs, and corporate teams, with a commitment to inclusivity that has seen us develop programmes for diverse community groups. The centre's evolution reflects our dedication to staying at the forefront of watersports innovation, having introduced paddleboarding in 2012 and wingsurfing in 2022 while maintaining core sailing and kayaking offerings. Our charitable status ensures all profits reinvest in promoting outdoor lifestyles and expanding access to watersports across Wales.
Services
Kayaking Sailing courses Paddleboarding Windsurfing Wingsurfing RYA qualifications Kids' splash sessions Land-based training
Details
  • Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
  • RYA-certified instructors with ongoing professional development
  • AALA-licensed for safe group adventure activities
  • Specialist marine wildlife safety protocols in dolphin habitat
  • Charitable status ensuring community-focused pricing
  • Regular equipment upgrades maintaining industry-leading safety standards
Associations and certifications
  • Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA)
  • Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
  • RYA Training Centre
What people say
Super friendly staff Great safety protocols Dolphin spotting assistance Patient instructors Excellent family sessions
Services
Sailing Courses
Learn sailing fundamentals through RYA-certified courses ranging from beginner tasters to advanced levels. Our qualified instructors provide hands-on training in protected New Quay bay, using modern equipment suitable for all ages. Ideal for individuals and groups seeking structured progression in a safe environment.
Paddleboarding
Explore New Quay's calm waters on stand-up paddleboards available for hourly hire. Suitable for all skill levels, with optional instruction available. The sheltered bay environment allows safe navigation while observing local marine life under instructor supervision.
Kids' Splash Fun
Action-packed water sessions designed for children aged 8+. Combines kayaking, paddleboarding, and games under professional supervision. Maintains 6:1 instructor ratios while teaching basic water safety and technique through engaging activities like paddleboard rugby.
Wingsurfing
Try the latest watersport innovation with taster sessions and improver courses. Instructors provide beach-based training before water sessions, covering equipment handling and safety protocols. Available since 2022, utilising New Quay's optimal wind conditions.
RYA Qualifications
Progress through internationally recognised RYA sailing and powerboating certifications. Courses range from Level 1 fundamentals to advanced keelboat sailing, with experienced instructors maintaining strict safety standards. Includes practical assessments and theoretical components.
People
Cameron
Instructor
Experienced watersports instructor specialising in youth sessions, known for making activities safe and enjoyable while maintaining technical excellence in training delivery.
Questions
When is the watersports season?
Our main season runs from Easter until the end of September, weather permitting.
Can I hire equipment without lessons?
Yes, experienced users can hire kayaks, paddleboards, and windsurf equipment hourly.
Are there age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 8 years old for group sessions and 16 for unsupervised hire.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain a 6:1 instructor ratio, provide safety boat supervision, and require buoyancy aids for all participants.
Do you accommodate special needs?
Our charitable mission includes developing accessible programmes for diverse groups and abilities.
Can I bring a dog?
We're dog-friendly provided pets are comfortable on water and have appropriate equipment.
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