Community Watersports Project
- Home
- Communities
- Community Watersports Project
Breaking Down Barriers to Blue Health for All Ages
Since 2019, our Community Watersports Project has helped people of all ages in St Austell Bay get active in, on and around the sea.
Our aim is to break down barriers to accessing the coast, building confidence and connection through fun, inclusive activities in the natural environment.
With support from Sport England, Cornwall Council, Mevagissey Parish Council and our community, we’ve been able to offer affordable kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling and sea swimming opportunities to over 60 participants aged 3 to 77. The project continues to make watersports more accessible while promoting wellbeing, confidence and a stronger relationship with the ocean.
What We Get Up To
Our programmes including a huge range of activities for all abilities.
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Sea Swimming
Snorkelling
Come and Join Us on the Water
Ready to get on the water? Book your place on one of our upcoming sessions and join our supportive community outdoors.
What the Project Achieved so far
The Community Water Sports Project delivered by Wild, Wonder and Wisdom created accessible and inclusive opportunities for people in the St Austell area to connect with the sea, build confidence and improve wellbeing. Through a programme of kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling and swimming sessions, the project supported people aged 3–77 to experience the water in a safe, supportive environment. The programme brought together diverse groups including women, young people, adults with additional needs and older participants, helping many try new activities, build friendships and improve their mental health and confidence.
- 60 unique participants took part in the programme, with 58% returning for multiple activities
- Structured water sports sessions delivered across kayaking, paddleboarding (SUP), snorkelling and swimming
- Activities delivered for multiple groups including This Woman Can, MENCAP participants, Over 50s, Sea Explorers youth group and local community paddles
- Young people gained water safety skills, confidence and opportunities to try new outdoor activities
- Adults experiencing isolation built friendships and social confidence, with many trying water sports for the first time
- Participants reported improved mental health, wellbeing and sense of belonging through supportive group sessions
- The project helped people overcome barriers to outdoor participation, including cost, confidence and access to equipment
- Families and individuals facing difficult circumstances experienced positive life changes through outdoor activity and community support
Book a Session
Book one of our upcoming Community Watersports sessions.
Latest Community Watersports Project News
Drowning Prevention Week
What are we doing to prevent drowning along with other campaigns we support.
Portmellon Patience Testers!
The persistent easterly winds and changeable conditions are making the start to this Community Water Sports Season a bit challenging.
Community Water Sports Launch Weekend 11/12th April
Let’s get our 2026 Community Water Sports season off to a fantastic start on 11th and 12th April in Portmellon.