About Encounter Cornwall
Encounter Cornwall is a paddle-sport specialist based in the picturesque village of Golant on the upper Fowey Estuary, one of South Cornwall's most scenic tidal waterways. Run by a team of fully qualified Paddle UK Level 3 coaches, the company has earned a silver award in the Cornwall Tourism Awards for Active and Learning Experience of the Year, cementing its reputation as one of the region's top water-based adventure providers.
Their programme covers guided kayak tours, canoe trips, stand-up paddleboarding lessons, and self-hire equipment along the sheltered creeks and woodlands of the River Fowey. Sessions range from beginner-friendly estuary paddles through ancient oak woodland to more adventurous open-water coastal excursions, all tailored to the group's ability. Family sessions, school groups, and corporate team-building events are catered for with flexible scheduling throughout the season.
What makes Encounter Cornwall stand out is its intimate, knowledge-rich approach — small group sizes mean personalised instruction, and the guides' deep understanding of the local ecosystem turns every paddle into a nature experience. Otters, kingfishers, and herons are regular sightings along the river, making it as much a wildlife tour as an adventure activity.
