Make touring SUP expeditions to see beautiful waterways. Pack light for a memorable stand-up paddleboarding experience on calm lakes and rivers. Starboard, our paddle board brand, has a 25-year history. We make both premium inflatable and composite boards. Also, our inflatable stand up paddle boards have special welded rails for extra strength.
Key Takeaways
- Starboard has been leading the paddle board market for 25 years with top-tier inflatable and composite boards.
- Our touring SUP expeditions offer the chance to enjoy stunning water venues with expert guides.
- Travel light for an amazing adventure on clear lakes and peaceful rivers.
- The unique welded rails on our inflatable SUP boards boost their durability and performance.
- Get ready to experience the thrill of touring SUP on your next outdoor quest.
Choosing the Right Touring SUP Board
When picking the best touring sup for your trips, consider a few important things. Think about the size of the board and whether you want a hard boards or inflatable boards. This choice can really change how much fun you have on the water and how easily you can take your stuff with you.
Length and Width Considerations
If you’re going on stand up paddleboarding tours, you’ll need a board that can go the distance and hold all your gear. Look for one that’s 12'6" or 14 feet long for better balance and room to keep your things.
The width of your touring sup board matters too. It affects how comfortable and stable you are. For longer trips, go with a board that’s at least 28 inches wide. This will keep your legs and feet feeling good the whole way.
Hard Boards vs. Inflatable Boards
When looking at hard boards and inflatable paddle boards, each type has its own benefits for different uses. Hard boards, made with carbon or fiberglass, are great for fast and straight riding, perfect for sup excursions and sup sightseeing. Inflatable boards are easier to carry around, good for sup yoga classes and sup fitness activities.
Planning Your Touring SUP Expedition
When getting ready for a touring stand up paddleboarding (SUP) adventure, think about a few important things. You'll want to pick the perfect place, check the conditions and rules, and sort out the details with your buddies. A smart and organized plan is the key to having fun and staying safe.
Selecting the Destination
Pick a place for your SUP trip that fits what your group likes. Think about how skilled you all are, how long you want to be out there, and the views you want to see. You should also think about if the route should be round-trip or one-way, what the weather might be like, and how close you are to help if you need it. Don’t forget to look into any rules about the wildlife or the land, and if you need special permission to go there.
Researching Conditions and Permits
Do your homework on the water, weather, and what permissions you need for your trip. Plan out each day in detail, with a little extra time for the unexpected. Learn about the local area, like the tides and any dangers, to make sure you have a safe and fun time.
Sharing Logistics with Your Group
Good talk with your SUP team is a must. Share the trip plans and everything everyone needs to bring and do beforehand. Also, tell someone not on the trip all the details, just in case. Using a GPS tracking device could be helpful, especially in far-off places, to call for help if you must.
Essential Paddling Gear
Getting ready for your stand-up paddleboarding trip means having the right gear. This keeps you cozy and secure on the water. Make sure you dress right and pack the gear you need for fun and safety, no matter the weather.
Clothing for Warm and Cold Conditions
In hot weather, protect yourself with a long-sleeved rash vest, leggings, and a hat. This keeps the sun off you. In the cold, you'll want layers. A waterproof jacket and pants, or a drysuit, will keep you warm and dry.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
When paddleboarding, always have a PFD on. Also, think about other safety items like a leash, a knife, and a towline. These help if something unexpected happens during your trip.
Safety Equipment
Keep tools like maps, a compass, or a GPS to not get lost. Also, bring along ways to talk and keep your devices powered. This is important for your paddleboarding journey.
| Warm Weather Gear | Cool Weather Gear | Safety Equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Long-sleeved rash vest | Waterproof paddling jacket | Personal Flotation Device (PFD) |
| Leggings | Waterproof paddling pants | Coiled leash |
| Brimmed hat | Drysuit | River knife |
| Towline with carabiner | ||
| Maps, compass, or GPS | ||
| Communication devices | ||
| Backup power sources |
Camping and Overnight Gear
Going on a multi-day tour on a SUP paddle board needs the right camping gear. This makes your trip comfy and fun. Think about using light shelters like tarps or hammocks that are easy to carry and set up. Don't forget a cozy sleeping mat and bag for a good night’s sleep.
Shelter Options
Choosing the best shelter is key for your paddle board trip. Ultralight tarps and bivy sacks are great for a simple, easy setup. Or, you can go for a hammock for a snug, off-the-ground sleep. Make sure to check the sites along your path. This will guide you on the perfect shelter for the area's features and weather.
Sleeping Gear
Getting a good sleeping mat and bag helps you stay comfy and warm at night. Pick ones that are light and easy to pack. Remember to check the weather and choose the gear that matches the temperatures you'll face. This way, you'll be ready for both warm and cool nights on your trip.
Camp Essentials
Bring along other important camping gear like a headlamp for light at night, your toiletries, and any meds you need. It’s also smart to look out for wildlife and tides when picking your camp spots. This will keep your nights safe and fun.
Touring SUP Packing and Organization
Gearing up for a long trip on your stand-up paddleboard (SUP) needs smart packing. Making the most of your SUP's space and organizing your stuff well is key. This way, you carry all you need and stay stable on the water.
Packing for Extended Tours
For trips that span several days, use the right tools to keep your gear safe on your board. Dry bags, bungee cords, and the Starboard's SeaMount® system are great for this. This setup lets you bring extra without making your board unstable. Keep snacks, water, and map handy, and stash the rest towards the board's edges.
Gear Organization and Storage
Having a plan for where each item goes helps your trip go smoothly. Put the heavy stuff lower and nearer to the middle. Before you venture off, check to make sure your setup can handle rough waves. This ensures your gear stays put.
| Packing Tips for Touring SUP Expeditions | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Use dry bags, bungee cords, and accessory mounts | Maximizes storage capacity and keeps gear dry |
| Organize frequently used items for easy access | Enhances efficiency and convenience during your adventure |
| Distribute weight evenly across the board | Maintains stability and balance for a safer, more comfortable journey |
| Test gear attachments before departure | Ensures everything stays secure, even in challenging conditions |
Navigation and Communication
Setting out on a touring sup expedition means you need good ways to find your way and stay in touch. By using the right methods and tech, you can have fun and stay safe. This is true whether you're exploring calm lakes, gentle rivers, or vast coastlines.
Maps and GPS
For finding your way, it's vital to have both paper maps and GPS systems. Take with you maps of the waterways that show the best paths, dangers to avoid, and where to get in and out. Add a GPS app on your phone to see where you are, set spots of interest, and plan your journey. Make sure to download the maps beforehand, so you can still see them even where there's no phone signal.
Communication Devices
Keeping in touch is key for your safety and keeping the sup group together. It's smart to have a backup like a VHF radio or a satellite messenger. These let you talk to rescuers or your friends if there's an emergency. They can be a life saver, helping you signal for help or let others know where you are.
Backup Power Sources
It's important to have ways to power your navigation and communication gadgets on your sup trip. Get a portable solar charger or a big power bank. This ensures your tools are always ready to go. With these backups, your important electronics will never let you down.
Conclusion
Going on a touring SUP trip is full of thrill. You can see the outdoors and find beautiful water paths. It’s all about picking the best SUP board, bringing the right gear, and mapping out your plans.
Starboard, a top brand in paddleboards, has 25 years of making great boards. They have boards for exciting adventures in touring sup, stand up paddleboarding tours, and other activities.
This guide helps you set up your own amazing touring sup journey. With Starboard’s advice and quality boards, your paddleboarding will be unforgettable.
FAQ
What are the benefits of longer touring SUP boards?
Longer SUPs, 12'6" or more, are great for long trips. They let you travel further with less effort. Plus, you can store more gear without it getting in your way.
They also provide extra space for you to stand. This is very helpful in different conditions. For example, you can step back to balance or find a spot to sit if you're paddling for a long time.
What factors should I consider when planning a touring SUP expedition?
When getting ready for a SUP adventure, think about how long you'll be gone. Also, decide if you'll go in a circle or to a specific point. Weather, ways out if needed, and local wildlife are important. Check if you need any special permits.
Make a detailed plan for each day. This helps you be ready for unforeseen events. Always add extra time in your schedule.
What essential paddling gear should I bring for a touring SUP expedition?
In warm weather, wear a long-sleeved rash vest and leggings to shield from the sun. A hat with a brim helps too. If it's cool, layer with a light waterproof jacket or a drysuit to stay warm and dry.
Wearing a PFD is a must. Think about getting a coiled leash, a river knife, and a towline with a carabiner for safety.
What camping and overnight gear do I need for a multi-day touring SUP expedition?
For camping on your SUP trip, focus on lightweight gear. This includes shelter like tarps or hammocks, and a sleeping mat with a bag or liner. Add a headlamp, toiletries, and any medicines you need.
How should I pack and organize my gear for a touring SUP expedition?
For longer trips, make the most of your board's space. Use dry bags, bungee cords, and the StarMount system on Starboard boards.
Keep things you use a lot easy to get to. And make sure your gear is balanced on the board.
What navigation and communication tools should I bring on a touring SUP expedition?
Take along maps and a GPS, like a phone. Have a way to communicate in an emergency, such as a VHF radio or a satellite messenger. Pack a charger too, so you can keep your devices powered up.