Touring & Expedition

The longest paddle journeys of them all, this is a broad category for river or ocean trips over substantial distance and over many days, weeks or even months where exploration, discovery and stamina are key.

In terms or river touring, this could be a much acclaimed and planned descent from source to mouth, successfully running a previously impassable section of rapids, following the footsteps of expeditions made by historical figures documented in literature, overnight and stopover trips or paddling through several states or countries.

Ocean-going expeditions either in sea kayaks or specially designed craft could include circumnavigation of an island archipelago, timed cross-channel paddles, longer cross-ocean voyages, Arctic and ice-berg trips or even paddling up to lava secreted from an active volcano!

Tying hand-in-hand with charity-work and fundraising, 'Touring and Expedition' celebrates the very best of human spirit and paddle achievement.

There is always something left to explore or a previous record to beat, particularly in recent years stand up paddle exploration has become a popular trend.

See also: Freya Hoffmeister wins Sportswoman of the Year.