Bell boating on the River Tees

Here we are having a short rest before we go Bell Boating on the River.

 

Bell boats are designed like catamarans. They have two hulls, which are joined by a central platform to give them extra stability in the water. Their clever design makes them almost impossible to overturn in calm water. Bell Boats are perfect for beginners water sports sessions.

On arrival at Tees Barrage students are taught about water safety and how a lock works whilst experiencing it at first hand.

   
Before we can go boating we have to get ready. We all have to wear specialist clothing, waterproof jackets, life jackets and helmets.
Now we have all the right equipment we then climb into the Bell Boats ready to set sail!

And were off! There are 3 teams paddling away

Paddling from the centre towards Tees Barrage where the crew will learn how to paddle efficiently using teamwork. Along the way, we are taught about regeneration projects along the edge of the river Tees.

 

Here we go, the red team decide to stand up to paddle, lets hope they don't fall in!! Well it is a race after all.

Once downstream of the Barrage environmental issues are explained with regards to pollution and differences between salt and fresh water.

On the paddle back there are some fun and games.

Take a look at our video below

We really enjoyed the boating, even though we did get a little wet! That's why we had to take a change of clothes of course.

 
Next stop was Preston Park for lunch. We needed some food and a rest after the Boating session.

After recharging our batteries we had a game of football to finish off a great day.