PYB Events

Name: Paddlesport Expedition Symposium
Start: 2025-10-31T00:00:00+00:00
End: 2025-11-02T23:59:59+00:00
Location: Plas y Brenin – National Outdoor Centre

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Paddlesport Expedition Symposium

31 October - 2 November

Get ready to learn all about planning epic expeditions around the world through a series of talks, workshops and activities at the long-awaited Paddlesport Expedition Symposium , making its return after nearly two decades! Whether you’re a sea kayaker, open boater, white water enthusiast, or packrafter, this event is designed especially for YOU.

We’re thrilled to bring it back in 2025 with a focus entirely on paddlesports. Over one action-packed weekend, immerse yourself in a rich program of talks, workshops, and hands-on activities led by some of the most experienced and passionate experts in the field.

Tickets are available using the link below.

What to Expect

Our weekend will be packed with workshops covering everything you need to know for your next epic expedition, including:

Kit Repair with Snowdonia Gear Repair – Repairing your kit in the field and what to carry in your repair kit. Featuring expert guidance from Snowdonia Kit Repair, who will be bringing their materials and tools for a fun and practical session. (2 hour session, Saturday only)
Packraft and travelling light with Tirio – Use of packraft and tips for getting your gear as light as possible. Learn about minimising weight for expeditions requiring portages and “hiking in”. (Half day session)
Doctor Down with Mountain Equipment – Light weight and warm clothing developments. Learn which layers to bring for paddle expeditions in all seasons. (1 hour session)
Staying Healthy with Loel Collins – Good hygiene, filtration, suncream, bear and bug proofing. Everything to keep you safe out and about! (2 hour session, Saturday only)
Injury Prevention with Zac Laraman – Stretching and specific targeted exercises for paddlers. Whether it’s warming up, cooling down, or maintaining long-term fitness, this workshop will provide you with the know-how to keep your body happy out in the wilds. (1 hour session)
Comms and Safety with R2Ri – Look into the use of satellite phones and the Garmin InReach for staying in contact, especially in emergencies. Technology moves quickly- make sure you’re up-to-date with it, and learn some tips and tricks to help you stay connected. (Half day session)
Photography and Filming with Pete Catterall – Documenting your journey and adventures. Whether you just want keepsakes for yourself, to share with friends and family, or even starting a vlog of your adventures, this workshop will tell you everything you need to know about photography on expedition. (2 hour session)
Fuel, food and fluids with Joe Browns – Expedition foods and cooking outdoors. Discover the options out there for meals on longer expeditions, as well as how to keep yourself well-fuelled over multiple days. (2 hour session)
Paddle Sports Expedition with Ollie Sandeman – Kit packing top tips. What to pack, what *not* to pack, and how to pack. Sometimes glossed over until a frantic afterthought at the last minute, this workshop runs through a key part of expedition planning. (1 hour session)
Planning, logistics, and applying for grants with Olly Sanders – Where and when to go, organising shipping, use of tech to plan, insurance and applying for grants. How to make those nitty-gritty admin tasks flow smoother and seem easier. (1 hour session)
Bushcraft with Wardy and Nicky – Building shelters, cooking outdoors, making fire, and using axes. Everything you need to know to survive out and about in nature, packed into a fun, practical half-day. (Half day session, Saturday morning and afternoon, and Sunday morning only)
Wilderness First Aid with R2Ri – What to carry and what course to go on that matches your expedition. Prepare for any eventuality, and make sure you are ready to look after yourself and lead groups, whether personally or professionally. (Half day session, Saturday only)
Managing Risk with R2Ri – Assessing risk on expedition and minimising chances of incidents. Discuss methods of identifying risk before it happens, and managing incidents effectively if they do occur. (Half day session, Sunday only)