SUP Mag UK lo-res free to readers July 2014 lo-res - free to read | Page 44

MINI Guide… Canal, West Sussex
Chichester
Overview
Chichester
Canal is a
watery
stretch of
paddling
tranquillity
that flows
from the heart of this ancient market
town. A place to escape the south
coast chop during blowy weather, Chi
Canal is the perfect spot for those
wanting gentile flat water SUP fun, a
race training venue, plentiful fishing
grounds or just somewhere different to
sweep.
Conditions

Hazards

Launching
The easiest launch is after parking up next to
Chichester Canal basin, walking a few short steps to one
of the pontoons and putting in straight off the side.
There’s a relatively high drop so beginners and
intermediates will need to watch not taking a dunking.

Amenities
Amenities as such are lacking – unless you pay to
become members of the local canoe club, in which
case you can access their club house.
A pub sits overlooking the water and is a great place
for après paddling refreshments while the bars,
restaurants and pubs of central Chichester are only
a short walk away.

Hazards are few and far
between on Chichester Canal.
You’ll need to watch out for
fisher types as you paddle
along this stretch but most are
inquisitive and happy to reel in
and have a chat with you.
The canal basin gets busy with
strollers, dog walkers and
families. Be courteous as you
navigate to the put in with
your gear. Canal water in
winter can freeze as it gets a
lot colder than the open sea.

Summing up
Chichester Canal is a great
flat water SUP venue that’s
ideal for all levels of
paddler. Sheltered from the
weather, it’s the perfect
place to escape for SUP
missions during storms or
on sunny warm days.
For adventurous types it’s
possible to sweep the entire
length of the canal to open
sea. You’ll have to navigate
a few tight squeezes and at
points get off the water and
cross a couple of busy roads,
however, this is a fun route
for those with time on their
hands.

Google map

This location is extremely sheltered and as such
boasts totally flat water. In an area not known for
its inland SUP venues, Chi Canal offers respite from
the sometimes relentless chop of the open sea –
just a few miles away.
Pioneered on SUPs by Bill Dawes and Simon
Bornhoft, the canal is a natural habitat for wildlife
of which there is much to observe – nature lovers
will love it. With zero tidal flow to worry about and
very few hazards, other than fishermen, Chichester
Canal is a great flat water SUP location – perfect
for all round paddlers, racers or tourers.

s

t

a n d

u p

p a d d

l

e

m a g

u k

44