Oar & Explore is a women-led paddle sports initiative based in Poplar and Bow, East London. Its main aim is to enable women—particularly those who may face barriers such as being non-swimmers or from global majority communities—to participate in water sports in a safe, supportive environment. By offering beginner-friendly sessions and building confidence on the water, the project also works to make “blue spaces” more accessible and inclusive. Initially seed-funded by London Sport and supported by Poplar HARCA, Oar & Explore has since grown into a thriving community club.
Breaking barriers through inclusive sessions
The project delivers free introductory paddle sessions designed for women with little or no prior experience. These tasters cover equipment, water safety, and basic paddling skills, with a strong emphasis on accessibility. Many participants are non-swimmers, so sessions are adapted to overcome fears and build trust. By removing cost barriers and creating a supportive peer-led environment, Oar & Explore successfully engages women who might not otherwise consider water-based activities.
A pathway from first paddle to independence
What sets Oar & Explore apart is its deliberate outreach to women with no swimming background. Rather than assuming prior confidence in the water, the initiative created a genuine entry point for new participants. The project also introduced a clear progression pathway: once women complete tasters, they can join regular sessions and, if they wish, become members. Long-term sustainability is built into the model through a mix of memberships, external funding and eventually paid corporate sessions.
Confidence, wellbeing and community impact
Since launch, more than 120 women have taken part. Reported outcomes include increased confidence, enhanced wellbeing, and stronger social connections. The project has also built partnerships with local organisations and achieved wide community recognition. A consolidation phase is underway, with the goal of establishing Oar & Explore as an independent, women-led club by 2025.
Lessons for the future
The project demonstrates the value of inclusive design, targeted outreach, and community partnership. By addressing barriers around cost, confidence, and swimming ability, Oar & Explore has shown how blue spaces can become places of empowerment and wellbeing when women are given the right opportunities to participate.
Find out more
To find out more on this initiative, please contact Poplar HARCA’s Coordinator through the Members Only Zone. If you are not yet a member of Eurhonet, find out about joining us.
