Coasteering
Where the sport started: Coasteering first appeared as early as 1970 as a recreational activity but its invention, and evolution into what we know today, can be attributed to a surfer known as Andy Middleton. Andy was the first person to offer Coasteering as a recreational sport to others in the early 1980’s, starting his own Coasteering business in Pembrokeshire South Wales. By the mid 1990’s Coasteering had been adopted by many adventure providers across the UK and subsequently the sport started being perused outside of the UK. In its essence Coasteering simply involves swimming, low level traversing / climbing and Jumping as you make your way around the costal cliff faces of an area, routes can vary in length but typically for activities being provided by a guide they will last between 1.5 and 3 hours with some providers offering a full day out of around 8 hours. Coasteering like many other activities can be affected by weather and ocean conditions, some days may be sunny with blues sky’s and glass flat oceans. These days are perfect for the beginning offering a pleasant day out at the coast, other days can feel ominous with heavy clouds and big waves. Professional adventurers may choose to venture out on these days looking for that extra thrill and challenge, however adventure providers will usually have limitations that they follow for the safety of the group. We are fortunate in the UK having many great places to go Coasteering, North Wales being rated as one of the best. When you go on a Coasteering adventure you will usually be provided with the following gear, wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet. Most providers will ask you to bring some sturdy shoes eg Trainers or Walking Boots, you are usually required to bring some old shorts such as board shorts. The shorts are used to protect the soft neoprene of a wetsuit against the abrasive rocks and barnacles found on the coastline. Additional gear may be provided if the weather is cold such as neoprene socks, gloves and hoods along with neoprene vests for extra warmth. Your adventure provider should carry any additional gear that may be required usually consisting of first aid gear, phone or radio, throw line, along with some rigging gear. Coasteering is usually a seasonal activity with most providers offering the activity between April and October, however the best times to go Coasteering are usually between May and September.
Who is Coasteering for?
Coasteering is a great sport for anyone, a basic ability to swim is usually required and a reasonable fitness, particularly if the sea conditions are more challenging on the day. However most guides can tailor a route that will best suit individual needs and requirements.
5 Fun Facts!
The worlds larges cliff jump was performed Laso Schaller in 2015, he broke the cliff jumping world record with a jump of 58.8m or 192 feet off the Cascata del Salto in Switzerland.
Coasteering originated in the UK, starting in South Wales.
Over 50 miles of Cornish Coastline have been Coasteered.
Wetsuit makers have started making purpose built suits for Coasteering.
Anyone with a willingness to try can become a competent adventurer with enough practice and guidance.
Now if you love the sound of Coasteering and want to try for yourself you can book your adventure on our website detailed below
📞 +447930137994 Call, Text, WhatsApp Available
