The CVCC was formed in the late seventies and has developed immensely as a canoeing club, particularly over the last few years. It is a friendly club with membership levels normally of around 100 and is an ideal place to start canoeing. The club caters for all abilities from those who've never seen a kayak before to the river running gods of the alps!
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The clubhouse is situated in the Seven Sisters Country Park, between Eastbourne and Seaford on the South East coast. The 'Barn' as it is known is a Grade 2 listed building and many years ago was a sheep shelter. It comprises of an office, separate showers and a large boat store housing our fleet. Close to the clubhouse we use the meanders of the Cuckmere River which provide shallow and still water to introduce newcomers to the sport. Much of the meanders are only 2-3 feet deep, which is excellent for building confidence in those who are initially a little unsure of canoeing. |
When newcomers have mastered the art of straight line paddling and developed stamina we use the tidal sections of the River Cuckmere which leads down to the sea at Cuckmere Haven. This section of the river was created by the Victorians who dug the channel down to the sea, so creating the landlocked sections - the meanders. As it is tidal we can only use this section when the tides are favourable - otherwise it is a hard paddle for most and impossible for some! |
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It is a good mile or so down to the river mouth where there is a bay below the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs and Beachy Head. When conditions are suitable we use the bay for kayak surfing which can be very exhilarating if you have never tried it. From here experienced paddlers can paddle east along to Birling Gap or west towards Seaford Head - both directions providing some wonderful coastal scenery. The area is popular with walkers who trek down from the Country Park car park to the beaches at the river mouth. |
Our fleet of canoes and kayaks is of many types: single and two person kayaks, Canadian canoes, general purpose kayaks and some specialised kayaks for freestyle and surf kayaking. You do not have to own all your own equipment - this can be hired for a season. We can provide canoe, paddle, helmets, cagoules if necessary. During the winter months pool sessions are run, which allow training during the cold when most members hang up their wetsuits. |
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Our concern for safety is paramount and all paddlers are made aware of safety issues both on and off the water. Before a paddling session begins the instructor will advise the group on what the sessions will include and and any precautions that they need to take. The instructor will then lead a warm up session to ensure everyone is loosened up before getting onto the water. Whilst on the water, each instructor can be responsible for up to 8 persons, so as groups are kept to a safe level. |
We meet on Sunday mornings at 10am and expect all paddlers to be fully kitted out and on the water by 10.30am. A typical session on the meanders will include some warm up paddling, small instructional sessions and some fun and games in between. Our aim is to make the sessions fun whilst teaching some valuable paddling skills at the same time. Kids in particular love getting wet and often drag us adults into their horseplay so do not forget that towel and change of clothing! |
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For those who want to develop their canoeing skills and achieve recognition we run the British Canoe Union Star Tests, which include training sessions and an assessment, which if successful results in a badge and certificate. One star assessments are arranged on demand, whereas 2 and 3 Star courses are run over a 4/5 week period with assessment at the end. Outside of the club, many paddlers go on to tackle more challenging water and during the winter months some of us search out the white water rapids both at in the Uk and on the abroad. |
Once you have reasonable canoeing skills you will find yourself invited to day trips, some of which are club run and others by private arrangement. Examples are day trips to the Nene Whitewater Canoeing Centre, local river trips such as the Cuckmere, Adur and Rother. We have also run weekend trips to Wales and Dartmoor to paddle such rivers as the Wye, Usk and Dart. |
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Due to the many aspects of canoeing we are not able to cover all disciplines so please note we DO NOT cater for the following: