Welcome to Stranraer Water Sports

The home of water sports, fun and friendship on beautiful Loch Ryan. Whether you are an experienced sailor, rower or swimmer, or you’re thinking about dipping your toe in the water for the very first time, we look forward to welcoming you!

credit: Stranraer Water Sports Association

What We Offer

You can get into sailing, standup paddle boarding, coastal rowing, kayaking, open water swimming, powerboating, canoeing and more at our friendly, community-run organisation. We also deliver accredited training, including RYA qualifications and British Canoeing Paddle Awards, and we host major water sports events, such as SkiffieWorlds 2025 and the Fin & Foil Championships.

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Architectural side view of new build water sports hub

Naturally Perfect

With its sheltered waters, spectacular views and close proximity to Stranraer, Loch Ryan is the perfect place to enjoy water sports activities and events. Now, we are adding a brand-new Water Sports Hub to make it even better!

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child enjoying watersports session

Water Sports for Everyone

We are passionate about making water sports accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for everyone. If you’re new to water sports, one of our instructor-led Paddlesports Taster Sessions is a great place to start - perfect for beginners!

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children enjoying swsa kids club

Make Waves

For young people aged 8 years and over, our Kids and Youth Sessions are a fantastic way to enjoy water sports while making friends, building confidence and growing skills. And during the school holidays, you can join one of our Multi Activity Days.

Loch Ryan

The natural amphitheatre of Loch Ryan is a perfect stage for water sports, with its calm, sheltered water, amazing onshore facilities, a stunning park and its close proximity to the town and its facilities. This makes it pretty perfect for competitive water sports events and for water-based leisure activities.

credit: Colin Tennant, CT Productions

Latest News

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Stranraer Oyster Festival

Stranraer Oyster Festival

Get out on the water and try something new - join Stranraer Water Sports during the Stranraer Oyster Festival for a fantastic, free taster session of paddle boarding or kayaking on the beautiful waters of Loch Ryan!

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kids enjoying water sports activities

Easter Holiday Activities

Discover the excitement of Water Sports this spring with Stranraer Water Sports Association and join us during the Easter Holidays for Multiple-Activity days!

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Kids Club with Struan
credit: Pete Robinson

NOW FILLED: Seasonal Water Sports Instructors

Stranraer Water Sports Association are recruiting two Seasonal Water Sports Instructors.

Membership

Becoming a member of Stranraer Water Sports Association means you officially join our water sports community. It also brings a whole host of member benefits, including discounted sessions, discounted training, member activities and community connection.