Stand up paddle experience in Alentejo for anyone who wants to learn the basics of SUP properly, in calm and flat water, with a certified instructor by their side from start to finish. Led by António Pereira, founder of SW SUP and a passionate water sports instructor based in Vila Nova de Milfontes, this one-hour beginner lesson takes place on the Mira River and covers everything you need to get on the board confidently and safely. After the lesson, you will have the foundation to go out and explore the river independently.
The session covers all the core fundamentals of stand up paddle in sequence: safety rules and how to read the water, correct positioning on the board, balance and posture techniques, turning techniques and paddling technique. António and his team teach beginner classes in calm and flat water specifically because that is where learning happens fastest and most correctly. Depending on weather and tidal conditions there may also be the opportunity to do a small tour down the river, making the experience even more memorable. As this activity is highly dependent on river and ocean tides and daily weather conditions, sessions may occasionally be cancelled or adjusted at short notice.
What you’ll learn
🏄 Safety rules and how to approach the water as a stand up paddle beginner
🏄 How to position yourself correctly on the board from the very first attempt
🏄 Balance and posture techniques for stable and confident paddling
🏄 Turning techniques to navigate the river with control
🏄 Paddling technique for efficient and enjoyable movement on the water
What’s included
🌊 Board, paddle and lifejacket for the full session
🌊 Certified instructor monitoring throughout
🌊 Insurance coverage
🌊 One hour of focused beginner instruction on the Mira River
What you leave with
The foundation to go out on the Mira River independently after your first lesson, and the particular feeling of standing on a board on the water for the first time, which António has been watching change people since 2017.
I am António Pereira, founder of SW SUP and a water sports instructor born and raised in Vila Nova de Milfontes. I grew up surrounded by nature and deeply connected to the ocean from a young age, starting with canoeing and surfing as a kid before discovering stand up paddle in 2016 and realising this was what I wanted to share with people every day. Since 2017 I have been dedicated to creating safe, fun and authentic experiences on the water, working alongside a passionate and experienced team. My goal with every session is simple: that you leave with a smile, great memories and maybe a new passion for the ocean.
Solo participants booking a single session incur a supplement of 12 euros. Special prices available for groups. Board and wetsuit rental rates also available on request. Activity is subject to tidal and weather conditions and may be cancelled or adjusted at short notice.