Spey Descent

“THE SPEY DESCENT EXPEDITION”

Throughout your 5 days on expedition with us your guide will give advice and top tips to allow you to navigate the river safely.  Each day the Spey gets a little bigger and faster than the day before.

Most of the rapids are Grade 2 with the exception of Knockando which is a Grade 3.

Each night you will camp together at the side of the river. After dinner there will be time to chat through the days paddling and look ahead to what the following days will bring.

BLUE COURSE

A fantastic trip for paddlers who are wanting to experience journeying on moving water.

Includes rapids up to grade 2/ 3.

Day 1 - Loch Inch to Aviemore

Starting on Loch Inch we will have time to practice skills and techniques to set us up for an enjoyable trip down the river Spey later in the afternoon. A gentle river paddle to start with eventually finishes in Aviemore at a comfortable B & B.

Day 2 - Aviemore to Boat of Balliefurth

With the backdrop of the spectacular Cairngorm Mountains we use the smooth currents to aid us downstream. A beautiful campsite awaits us with only red squirrels for company.

Day 3 - Boat of Balliefurth to Blacksboat

Paddling into malt whisky country. This day will include plenty of time to practice skills that will be needed in the upcoming rapids. The day finishes with a thrilling ride down the “washing machine” rapid!

Day 4 - Blacksboat to Craigellachie

We are now in the heart of malt whisky country. Our river running skills will be tested to the full with the famous Knockando rapids, a beautiful bouncy ride.

Day 5 - Craigellachie to Spey Bay

This day brings the most dramatic changes to the character and scenery surrounding the river. As the water gathers pace towards the sea it will eventually give way to a coastal plain with stunning views of Spey Bay and beyond.

Accommodation 

1st night in a B&B with the next 3 nights camping.

Beyond Adventure will provide all necessary group equipment including waterproof barrels, camp seats, tents, cooking utensils, maps, group shelters as well as all necessary personal paddling equipment.

Personal Equipment 

3 season sleeping bag

Lightweight sleeping mat or thermarest

Waterproof jacket and trousers

Fleece jacket x2

Warm hat

Sun hat ideally with a peak or brim

Quick drying lightweight trousers x 2

Base layers - thermal tops and bottoms

Tee shirts x2 (thermal fabric - not cotton)

Gloves, wool is still warm when wet

Paddling footwear (could be wellies, trainers or old boots, but make sure comfortable when kneeling)

Camp footwear - sandals, trainers or lightweight boots

1 litre water bottle (minimum)

Sun glasses and sunscreen

Personal first aid including blister kit and insect repellant

Midge net & midge repellant (Scotland in summer)

Light weight wash kit (with biodegradable soap)

A few plastic carrier bags (to separate wet/dry clothes if necessary)

Lightweight towel

Headtorch plus spare battery

Camera

Personal Medication 

You will be able to leave extra clothes worn for travelling in the vehicle whilst we are on expedition.