We catch up with Clair Connibeer co-owner of Encounter Cornwall, offering kayak trips, kayak hire and stand-up paddleboard lessons and tours, along with mega SUP hire on the stunning Fowey Estuary in Cornwall.
Q When did you first get into watersports, and which is your favourite?
CC: Growing up in Cornwall and on the edge of the Fowey estuary, I have been lucky enough to be involved in a number of different watersports throughout my life. This includes body boarding, kayaking, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). However, my main passion lies with SUP, which I first tried about six years ago. From the moment I stood on a board, I was hooked… a sort of eureka moment! At the time I had no idea it would catapult me into the business I am in now.
Q How did Encounter Cornwall come about?
CC: In 2019 my husband Ben and I, with our friends Jules and Phil, created our company Paddle Cornwall SUP. This was a mobile, stand-up paddleboard school offering SUP lessons and tours on the River Fowey, launching from the slipway in Golant. After receiving some great feedback from our customers, we were inspired to look at ways to further diversify, and so when the opportunity arose to purchase the award-winning kayak tour company Encounter Cornwall, we took it. To say it has been an interesting few years (pandemic aside) is an understatement!
Q What is it like spending your days ‘working’ on the River Fowey?
CC: It is wonderful! The estuary is so special, it is an AONB with an interesting history and vibrant ecosystem. Most days on the water we see heron, egret, kingfishers, curlews, cormorants, one or both of our resident seals (two of the only ‘common seals’ in Cornwall) and twice a year we are visited by a pair of Osprey on-route either to or from the Highlands. There is nothing quite like floating with the tide on a warm summer’s day, chatting with clients whilst spotting the wildlife…
Q In what ways have you seen interest in watersports change in recent years? What are the latest trends?
CC: I have seen interest in watersports explode over the last few years, particularly during the pandemic. However, I believe I have seen the biggest leap in SUP. The difference in equipment, technique and understanding is very interesting. Kite, surf, wind and SUP foiling is also becoming huge, as is SUP racing.
Q What would you say to someone who has never been kayaking or tried SUP, but is thinking of giving it a go.
CC: Do it! It has an amazing community, and it is a fantastic way to spend your time. I would definitely recommend a licenced and insured provider to give you a lesson in technique and safety. I cannot stress how important this is. Once you get it, you get it, and it will open a whole world of adventure up to you. Check out British Canoeing ‘Go Paddling’ centres and clubs, as well as BSUPA, WSA and ASI schools.
Q Do people need their own gear to get started?
CC: Not at first, but again I would recommend having a lesson and discussing equipment options with the instructors. There is so much kit to choose from, and it can be quite confusing. Certain boards, paddles, wetsuits etc… may not be suitable for your body composition or lifestle. Storage, transportation and geography of the area you intend to paddle are other factors to consider. Obtaining knowledge from a professional will help you save money and find the best kit to suit your needs.
Q Tell us about STAND, your SUP clothing range.
CC: STAND is the brainchild of my husband, Ben. It is all about the SUP community. He works incredibly hard on all our designs and has some fantastic thoughts for equipment, garments and direction for the future. Watch this space!
Q We know sustainability is important to your business. Can you tell us more?
CC: Yes, sustainability is important to us, whether it is through local employment, community involvement or local environmental awareness. We believe we have a role to play on the estuary, helping to support and protect the wildlife.
Q You have travelled a great deal, but what do you love most about living and working in Cornwall?
CC: I could fill the whole interview with this answer. In a nutshell, I love the communities, the way of life and the environment. Paddling along the crystal-clear waters in the summer months to watching the stark power, and the beauty of the waves in the winter, to me it is the best of all worlds.
Q Tell us something people might not know about you!
CC: I get most of my energy from Kittows of Fowey handmade scotch eggs during my tours in the summer months. A guilty pleasure that I feel absolutely no guilt for at all…!
www.encountercornwall.com
www.bsupa.org.uk
www.britishcanoeing.org.uk
www.waterskillsacademy.com
www.academyofsurfing.com
