Menu
WildWise offers day, evening or overnight private paddle experiences on the beautiful River Dart. Let us curate a nature-immersive trip for your group incorporating elements of bushcraft, foraging, camp crafts, nature awareness and storytelling.
WildWise offers private day, evening or overnight paddles in Canadian (open) canoes on the beautiful River Dart from Totnes. Spend as long or as little time as you want paddling on the serene river, occasionally hopping out to wander along the bank, relax, take a swim and perhaps find what wild food is on offer.
Learn how to light your own fire and prepare some campfire foods.
On overnight canoe camps wake early and paddle the river in the dawn mist or explore by moonlight and perhaps catch a glimpse of phosphorescence.
As this is a private event tailored to your needs and interests you can dictate the programme and the pace.
We provide all canoe equipment, buoyancy aids, paddles, tents, cooking equipment if needed as well as fully qualified canoe instructors with the option of campfire storytelling if you wish.
For overnight events we can include a stop off to enjoy some of Devon’s beautiful local pubs or cafes, opting to eat there instead – price changes with this option. Please contact us for more information as we are always happy to tailor our events to your needs and budget where possible.
Evening paddles, typically 4 hours duration, cost from £45 per person / adult (minimum charge £360)
Full day paddles, typically 6 hours duration, cost from £85 per person (minimum charge £500)
Overnight paddles to include camp supper and a simple breakfast cost from £125 per person (minimum charge £750)
We have a range of experienced and enthusiastic leaders we can call upon to lead your event. This will be discussed with you in advance and a name confirmed once we know your date requirements and can match that with a leader’s availability.
Our day paddle events are typically up to 6 hours; our evening paddles around 4 hours and our overnight paddles up to 24 hours.
Timings for private events can be adjusted and agreed around your requirements. However for events on the estuary tides will generally dictate start and return times. This can be discussed with you before booking.
All paddle equipment is provided including buoyancy aids. Please dress appropriately for the weather (noting that it is very rare that we cancel due to the bad weather!). A waterproof jacket is recommended with warm layers underneath plus robust footwear that can get wet/splashed.
We typically ask you to bring:
Generally our paddles set off from the pontoon just above Totnes weir.
We meet at Totnes boatshed near King Edwards School (KEVICCS). This is by the river just above Totnes weir. You can reach it on foot on the river path from either Totnes or Dartington.
To locate it by car from Dartington, make your way towards Totnes. As you enter the town, look for the footbridge over the road and KEVICC Elmhirst site is on your left hand side. There is a path running by the Astroturf pitch which leads down to the foot/cycle path next to the river. Turn left, you will see the small concrete boat shed, covered in ivy, where we will meet you. You can also access the river path from the bottom of Swallowfields, a no through road near to KEVICCS school.
Parking: There is no parking at the river side and nearby on street parking is very limited. We recommend you use the pay & display car parks nearer town, for example at Totnes station or at Pavillions car park near Borough Park.
For the evening paddle event we include a simple campfire supper eg a stew with a sweet dessert; for our overnight paddle events we typically include a simple breakfast & a campfire evening meal. Most dietary requirements can be catered for.
Please complete a booking enquiry form here indicating your area of interest and potential date options.
**BOOK NOW – free & friendly Meet the Leader / Q&A sessions**
Wolf Pack 2025 youth mentoring – Wed 8 Jan 2025 at 6pm