Is 2 man canoeing safe, not strongest swimmer, river wye.?

Question

I have been invited on a two day canoeing trip along the River Wye in a few weeks time. I can swim but im not the strongest swimmer in the world as I am kind of out of practice. I have a bit of a fear of deep water and have since childhood when I was pushed into the deep end of a pool by the teacher!

They will be providing us with life jackets, part of me really wants to go as I think it would be a good couple of days out, however I'm terrified of the canoe overturnng and ending up in the water! How safe is it in a 2 man? What are the chances of us overturning? Does anyone know if the river wye is particularly challenging/dangerous?

Answer 1

Hiya... I have canoed on the Wye many times. As long as you have a life vest or aid you will be fine. Parts of the Wye are challenging but nothing too bad. I have been on the water between Monmouth and Chepstow as well as around Ross on Wye - there are plenty of rapids and weirs, you will have fun!

Enjoy it...

Answer 2

Water and Canoes never really safe without full training which includes overturning If you really go,I say dont , find out a lot more how fast its running ..

Answer 3

a shortie wetsuit - which doesn`t look too OTT,will help your buoyancy in fresh water,as well as keeping you warm when you get wet....

Answer 4

I think you will be fine however use your common sense and tell who you are going with about your concerns.

Check the weather forcast as conditions will depend on the weather and if heavy rain - fast flowing river then reconcider , if fine weather you will be fine.

Answer 5

I just asked my partner, who has been on the Wye in a two man canoe.  He said it is perfect for a beginner.  Don't worry!

Answer 6

Think you will be fine, you need to wear life jacket and to be sensible, it will depend upon your buddy, if he/she is a good canoeist you will be fine. This time of year it will be okay, forecast is good for July.

You might want to practice your swimming and to get fitter and it would help if you can toughen up your hands, last time I tried canoeing it skinned my palms, so wear gloves or work on your fingers and palms