At HQ20 Watersports, we make that first paddle easy, welcoming and fun for all ages and abilities. Here’s exactly what you can expect when you join us on the river.
A Warm Welcome and Simple Check In
When you arrive, our friendly team will get you checked in, fitted with a buoyancy aid, and matched with the right craft — kayak, canoe, hydrobike, katakanu or even a traditional Irish currach if you want to try something really special. If it’s your first time, don’t worry — most of the people who join us are beginners.
Our changing rooms, secure storage and on‑site café make things easy, whether you’re arriving from work, the city centre or with a group.
A Safety Briefing that puts you at Ease
Before heading out, you’ll take part in a short, friendly safety briefing. This covers:
How to sit, paddle or pedal comfortably
What to expect on the river
How to stay safe and confident on the water
Signals and simple instructions your instructor may use
It’s light, relaxed, and perfect if you’ve never done a water activity before.
Getting Comfortable on the Water
Now the fun begins. You’ll launch from our safe, sheltered pontoon and get a feel for your craft. Within a few minutes most first‑timers are settled, smiling and surprised by how stable everything feels — especially on hydrobikes and katakanus.
Our instructors stay close by, offering tips, encouragement and support while you get used to the water. You can take it slow, go at your own pace, or enjoy a playful adventure — it’s entirely up to you.
Seeing Dublin From a Completly New Perspective
This is the moment most people remember. Once you’re moving, the city transforms. The river opens up, the sounds shift, and you suddenly feel miles away from the bustle — even though you’re right in the centre of Dublin.
If you’re trying currachs, you’ll feel part of a living tradition stretching back thousands of years. If you’re on a hydrobike, you’ll be surprised at how smooth and relaxing it feels. If you’re kayaking or canoeing, you’ll find rhythms and views you only get from water level.
You might pass:
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- The Custom House rising above the quays
- The iconic bridges — each one with its own story
- The Samuel Beckett Bridge sweeping overhead
- Riverside wildlife you may not have noticed before
- The Guiness Storehouse – an Irish gem
A Relaxed Return and Visit to the Cafe
After your session, you’ll return to HQ20 where you can grab a warm drink or bite to eat in our café — a great way to finish your experience or chat with your group. Schools often use this time to reflect on what they’ve learned, and tourists love it as a chance to plan their next Dublin stop.
