Race in a Cornish gig
Cornish pilot gigs – six-oared rowing boats built from Cornish elm – were some of the first shore-based lifeboats, owing to their speed and manoeuvrability. These working boats are now usually employed competitively. Falmouth Pilot Gig Club runs novice days where you can join a racing crew. falmouthgigclub.co.uk
Go sea kayaking
Sea kayaks can accommodate three people, with room for cargo and provisions so you can row to an island and spend the night there. Adventure Sunderland runs 2hr taster sessions for £30. It also offers longer courses for more experienced paddlers.
Adventure Sunderland, Sunderland Marina; marineactivitiescentre.co.uk/adventuresunderland; 0191 514 4721
Raft the river Washburn
The river Washburn is the only dam-released whitewater trip in the country. For 30 days through summer, water gushes between Thuscross Reservoir and Fewston Reservoir, guaranteeing grade III white water. Not for novices. River Washburn, Leeds. £5 for a weekday cruise, £8 at weekends; 0845 8338 654. Shuttle service available.
Take a punt
Scudamore’s in Cambridge runs self-punted treasure hunts on the river Cam for groups of eight or more. It’s part sight-seeing, part adventure, and teams set off on a trail that covers land and water, armed with questionnaires and maps. Scudamore’s Punting, Cambridge; Cambridge Treasure Hunt, £18.50; 01223 359 750; scudamores.com
Launch your yacht
OK, owning one may be a distant prospect, but you can perfect your yachting skills as a group by learning to sail one on the sheltered waters of the Norfolk Broads – a great place to start if you’re beginners. Norfolk Broads Yacht Training Centre, Wroxham; 1-day yachting taster sessions for 4-5 people, £55pp. Half days also available; 01603 782 897; trysailingnorfolkbroads.co.uk
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