About Canoe Hire Pro
From Paddle to Purpose: Built on 30+ Years of Real Experience
Hi, I’m Nigel, founder of Canoe Hire Pro.
This isn’t just a business. It’s the next step in a journey built on decades of paddling, real-world setup experience, and a belief that more people should have access to waterways for physical and metal wellbeing
I’ve been paddling since I was 15. Over the last 30+ years, I’ve coached, led expeditions, run hire sites, and helped others do the same, supporting everyone from nervous first-timers to skilled Whitewater paddlers across the UK and abroad.
In 2016, I launched my own canoe hire business from the ground up, scouting a promising site, dealing with red tape, building the booking systems, and getting customers in boats. It grew into a multi-site operation, including a National Trust location, giving thousands of people access to the water in heritage landscapes.
When COVID hit, we were one of the first UK operators to reopen safely, pushing through resistance with clear risk assessments and helping others behind the scenes to do the same.
Today, I still run a multi-day canoe adventure company that’s been featured in the Guardian and The Times. It’s built around Blue Mind Theory and the belief that time on the water isn’t just fun, it’s good for the soul.
Now, through Canoe Hire Pro, I help others do what I’ve done: launch and grow safe, successful hire operations without the costly mistakes. Whether you’re starting from scratch or improving what you’ve got, I can help you build something that works.
Why Trust Canoe Hire Pro?
✅ 35+ Years on the Water – Coaching, leading, mentoring, and supporting paddlers of all levels
✅ Built a Multi-Site Hire Business – Including National Trust collaborations and complex permissions
✅ Trainer & Assessor – Years of hands-on experience developing people and systems that work
✅ Safety-First Systems – Qualified in FSRT, WWSR, Advanced First Aid, and more
✅ Marketing & Booking Strategy – Real-world digital know-how from building and running my own businesses
Our Vision
To make canoe hire a strong, sustainable opportunity for landowners, outdoor operators, and new entrepreneurs, rooted in safety, professionalism, and a genuine love of being on the water.
Recognition
My work has been featured in national press, including The Times and The Guardian, and continues to earn trust across the paddlesport community.
Ready to See What We Could Build Together?
If you’ve got access to water or even just the right idea, we’ll show you how to turn it into a working hire setup.
Explore our services, check out what we offer, and when you’re ready, let’s have a no-pressure chat.
👉 Start Here to see how Canoe Hire Pro works