Frequently Asked Questions
CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING |
4X4 DRIVING | MOUNTAIN
BIKING | LASER COMBAT | HORSE
RIDING | FALCONRY | WALKING
AND HIKING | YACHTING
| KEELBOAT RACING | RIB'S
| FISHING | PARAGLIDING
| GLIDING
Clay Pigeon Shooting
How many targets do we shoot?
Each person will have the same number of cartridges and clays at each
stand and will be scored on the hits and misses! For experienced shots
further cartridges and clays can be purchased on the day.
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable clothing with something warm and waterproof if the weather
is unsettled. You will be out in the countryside in the afternoon so sensible
shoes - hiking boots are a must.
Is it very loud?
Well, a shot is more like a large 'crack' than an explosion. We do provide
ear muffs for everyone which are very effective at blocking out the sound.
Does it hurt your shoulder when the gun fires?
When you are standing properly, and holding the gun correctly, which
our instructors will show you as they stand just behind you, the impact
is minimal. The gun does move back when it is shot, but most people are
surprised how easy it is.
Does everyone shoot at the same time?
No, we may split large groups who will go off to different stands
a short distance away from each other. Everyone at each stand takes it
in turn.
What about shooting live game?
On your day with us you will only be shooting clay pigeons. We do not
arrange live shoots on the Island. You may occasionally see paragliders
flying nearby on sunny days, but we don't usually aim for these!
Minimum group size is 6
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4X4 Driving
Is it dangerous?
No...you do need to concentrate, and all maneuvers will
be demonstrated by an instructor first. All vehicles are professionally
maintained, and the courses are carefully planned and constructed to provide
a challenge. Drivers are supervised at all times by a member of staff.
What do we need to wear??
You will be outside in woodland so rugged, warm clothes
are best. Sensible, waterproof shoes which you don't mind getting wet
are also recommended.
What should I bring?
A camera!
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Mountain Biking
How long will we be out?
Sessions vary from an hour to a full day. It is up to your group.
If everyone is feeling tired the ride can be cut short. Or, if everyone
is bursting with energy a more demanding track can be taken.
What do I need to wear?
We provide helmets but you need to bring sensible shoes like trainers,
a rucksack to carry any drinks and nibbles, and some comfortable trousers
or shorts. Long legged is preferable in the summer as you may be cycling
through some undergrowth.
I'm not very fit and not that keen?
Lots of pit stops are definitely part of the ride as we don't make
each ride an endurance event! If you think you are not fit enough the
ride can be taken in stages , an easy route taken and kept short on the
day. And remember, at the bottom of most hills is a good pub!
How can a ride be made more easy or difficult?
With the huge number of trails available a ride can be graded to suit
each group. The steepness of the hill, the type of terrain and the length
of the trail all contribute to different levels of bike ride. We will
talk with you and assess each group's overall ability to make sure everyone
enjoys the ride.
Do we go out alone?
Only if you specifically request to. We arrange for an instructor to go
with your group so you can find your way to some good trials, have someone
there who can sort out any bike problems, and generally show you how to
make your ride enjoyable.
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Laser Combat
Is it the same as paintball?
The concept is the same with two teams pitched against each other. The
only difference are the ammunition and weapons. Unlike paintball which
uses paint pellets, everyone wears a helmet with targets on it and linked
to their gun. When a target is hit by an infra-red beam from someone
else's weapon, the gun is deactivated and you are out of the game.
What if my gun is deactivated in the first 5 minutes?
Well, for starters we would suggest you change your ambush technique.
However, each gun can be reactivated back at a central base camp in
the middle of the arena.
What type of games are played?
Because the guns can be reactivated a number of different scenarios
can be played during your session. A 'Defence' game involves one team
protecting their base camp from the enemy. Or 'Sudden Death' where you
will be eliminated from the game when you are first hit. Other games
include retrieving your enemies flag or storming camps. Minimum group
size is 12
Will I get dirty?
In a nutshell, yes! We will provide overalls but you will get very muddy
as all the action takes place outside. You do need a change of clothes
and shoes you don't mind getting wet and dirty. And, it won't be cancelled
if it is raining. It's part of the fun!
Horse Riding
Do I have to be able to ride?
No, we will ask you about each person's riding experience to ensure
that the horse and lesson or ride is suited to everyone's ability.
What if I have never ridden before?
There are two options for complete beginners or very nervous riders.
A half hour 'intro lesson' can be taken in the school, and if the rider
is confident this can be followed by a short hack. Alternatively, the
horse may be led by one of the instructors on a full hack.
Our group has mixed abilities, what will happen?
With a mixed group who wish to stay together the level of hack will
be tailored to suit those with the least experience. Often mixed groups
are split so that novices have a nice gentle ride and the more experienced
are challenged a little.
What is the difference between hacks?
A novice group will tend to only walk and trot on their hack. More experienced
riders will have the chance for a canter or two, depending on the route
of the ride.
Is there any road work?
Some stables include both road work and bridle ways in their hack. Some
stables have direct access to the countryside depending on their location.
We will let you know what type of route you will take when you book.
How many people are there on each hack?
The maximum per group varies from 6 to 8 people, depending on the
stable. We may add people onto smaller groups on the day.
What shall I wear?
Long comfortable trousers and flat shoes with a small heel so your foot
stays in the stirrup. Very chunky shoes are not really suitable, and
no stilettos please!
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Falconry
How long is the day?
You will start at 10am and finish between 5pm and quarter to 6 in the
evening - this depends on your afternoon flying. For those visiting
for half a day you will be with the birds for around 4 hours. A light
lunch is included at the Centre's café.
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable clothing with something warm and waterproof if the weather
is unsettled. You will be out in the countryside in the afternoon so
sensible shoes - hiking boots are great - are a must. There is a café
on site where you can purchase additional drinks and snacks during the
day.
What happens if it is raining?
No matter what the weather, on a full day of Falconry you will always
go out so remember to check the forecast the night before! If you have
only booked a half day you will be able to use the indoor arena.
I'm not sure about going hunting, do I have to do this?
No, the choice to hunt live prey is purely optional on the day.
How many people are there in a group?
The average group size is 6 people, but this may vary slightly.
What bird will I fly?
You could be a Harris Hawk, Common Buzzard, Hybrid Falcon or a Lanner
Falcon on the day if you have booked a full day. The Centre also has
Owls and Vultures which you may have the opportunity to handle on a
half day.
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Walking and Hiking
Where will we go?
There are literally hundreds of miles of trails around the Island. Depending
on where you are staying our guide will meet you there and take you
out. If you have any particular areas you would like to visit in the
vicinity just let your guide know. Or you can arrange to visit a particular
part of the Island when you make your booking with us.
Do we need to plan our own route?
The choice is yours. We can arrange our guide to plan a route for you,
or should you wish to go under your own steam we will make sure you
have plenty of information before hand so you make your own arrangements.
How energetic is it?
You can go out for a morning or afternoon or the whole day with
a stop for lunch. Your guide will monitor the pace to suit the group
and can choose easier or more difficult trails on the day.
What should I wear?
If you don't have hiking boots don't worry! Strong, sensible shoes are
the most important item to wear, and a small rucksack is also extremely
useful to put water & snacks in. Whether you are wrapped up warm
or in a t-shirt and shorts depends on the time of year you are visiting.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be sensible in what you bring.
You can always ring us the day before as we keep an eye on the long
range forecast.
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Yachting
What do I need to bring?
We will provide 'oilskins', which are basically waterproof jackets
and trousers, and life jackets are available on board each craft. You
will need to wear warm clothing and shoes with a non-marking sole. If
the weather is looking brisk then you may wish to bring a woolly hat
too!
What happens if it's raining?
You will still go out if it is raining and get wet, but you will have
waterproofs on so shouldn't get too soggy.
I have never been sailing before, is that a problem?
No, all of our yacht charters are with a fully experienced skipper,
but you may be asked to get involved to crew your boat under their supervision
- it's all part of the fun!
How many people do the yachts take?
You can try a Sonar keelboat which takes 3 crew plus skipper for some
fun match racing. Our yachts take between 6 and 12 people each depending
on the type.
Do we get off during the day?
Yes, we always moor for lunch, the location on the day depends on the
tides and wind. Whether you stay on board and have a picnic, or go to
the nearest pub for lunch depends on the package you have booked.
Can we do some racing?
If you have a larger group and have more than one yacht out we can arrange
some informal racing in the afternoon after everyone has become familiar
with sailing in the morning. This will usually take the form of 'see
who gets back to the marina first!'. More serious racing can be arranged
in advance depending on your group, and if there are any regattas on
we can also arrange entry if you book well ahead.
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Keelboat Racing
Racing sounds a bit serious .. we just want something a bit more
relaxed
Our expert says
Match racing can be very serious, but with our breaks we want you
to have a fun day which means all starting together and see who finishes
first! Each boat will have a skipper who is there to help the crew, whether
novices or experts, and there is no pressure to do anything else than
enjoy yourselves.
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'Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB)' Riding
What happens when we go out?
If you have just booked to go out for a trip on the Solent for a morning
or afternoon your skipper will tell you about the boat and take you out
on the water to see some of the sights and landmarks around the Island.
Once everyone is familiar with the boat there may be the opportunity for
everyone to have a drive.
If your group has booked one or more boats some fun on
the water Team Challenges and Navigational Treasure Hunts can be organised
as part of your package, with a stop at one of many waterside pubs for
lunch.
How many people are in a boat?
The boats we use are licensed to take between 4 and 8 people, maximum,
each. A skipper always drives the boat and goes out with each group.
Is it comfortable?
It can get very bumpy out on the water and may be uncomfortable for
people with back problems. When the boat is traveling at speed you may
need to stand up and hold on tight so you can brace yourselves over the
bumps! Not recommended for people with bad backs!!
Is it dangerous?
Everyone will be given a lifejacket and should feel confident about being
on the water. To ensure the safety of everyone your skipper will give
you a safety brief prior to getting on board. If the Solent is particularly
rough or windy then we will not take you out as it is then that go out
on a RIB would be dangerous.
Will we get wet?
Most probably, from the sea spray when you are at sea. Waterproofs can
be provided on request to help you stay dry but you may find your
shoes may get a little wet so bring a dry pair! And make sure you have
warm clothing.
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Fishing
What is included?
All your fishing equipment - rods, lines, hooks & bait is included.
If you are already a keen fisherman you can also bring your own equipment.
Lunch is not organised, but can be arranged by u us when you book. The
only gear you need to bring is something warm and waterproof to wear in
case the weather is a bit unsettled.
How long is the day?
You will need to be ready for an 8.30 start, and the boat leaves from
Yarmouth. The day will finish around 4.30 - 5.00 and we can arrange transfers
for you on the day as part of your package.
What will I catch?
The type of fish around depends on the time of year and the tides,
however, you could be fishing for Mackerel, Skate or Bass.
Can we keep what we catch?
Yes! However, you will need to check with the hotel whether or not they
will cook or store it for you! In the Summer we can arrange BBQ facilities
for group bookings so you can cook your catch and eat it at your leisure.
How many people can go out?
The group will be a maximum of 8 people on the day. Fishing is really
open to anyone as well, whether you have experience or not - no fitness
required!
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Paragliding
I'm afraid of heights
Contrary to popular belief you are not jumping off cliffs when you learn
to paraglide. You actually start on flat ground and learn to handle the
canopy - which you inflate above your head. To fly you then run forwards,
and as the canopy fills with air, lift up your legs and sit in soft seat
supported underneath - this will already be attached to you by a harness.
For your first flight you will only be a foot or so off the ground, and
as you gain confidence you will progress further up the hill to take a
series of 'mini-flights'. Most people find they manage to fly from
the top of the hill to the bottom by the end of the day - which is a massive
300 feet high!
What do I need to wear?
The most important things you need to wear are boots, preferably with
some ankle support - hiking boots are great. Whilst you are learning you
will fly from the hill to its base and will have to walk back up, which
means you will get hot so wear layers that you can put on and take off
during the day and long trousers.
What about lunch?
You need to bring some lunch with you and plenty of water as you will
be doing a lot of exercise during the day!
What happens if the weather is no good?
The weather conditions for paragliding need to be very specific. Fortunately
because we are an Island we have flying sites for all wind directions
and get a sea breeze during the summer, which is ideal. However, we cannot
guarantee flying. For group bookings we will let you know the night before
if you will be flying the next day, and if it is postponed we will already
have discussed alternative activities with you. If you have bought a voucher
for paragliding you need to call us the night before, and if the school
is not going out you can then reschedule your day.
Is it safe?
Paragliding is an adventure sport on par with ski-ing, which means you
will get a huge adrenalin rush on you first flight. However, it is strictly
regulated by the British Hang-Gliding and Paragliding Association (BHPA),
and you will be learning with a registered school who must adhere to the
BHPA's standards and have qualified instructors. During all your flights
you will have a radio on you allowing you to hear instructions and everyone
can progress at their own pace. Whilst you learn you will also be a registered
student which covers you for third party liability insurance.
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Gliding
Who can try Gliding?
People of all ages who are interested in experiencing the joys of silent
flight have a trial instructional flight, on the Isle of Wight between
March and October.
What happens during the session?
Before your flight you will be given an introductory talk by a qualified
gliding instructor who will explain how a glider flies and what to expect
from the flight. You will fly in a two-seater glider which will be launched
in the air by a tow plane. Your instructor will then take you flying over
the hills, cliffs and beaches around the Isle of Wight and show you how
the glider is controlled. If you wish you will be able to try your hand
at flying the glider on the day too!
How long will I be flying?
Your safety brief will last between 10 - 15 minutes, and once you have
been released from the tow plane you will be gliding for around 20 minutes.
How many people can try it?
We have two gliders and two instructors available, each taking one
person. The tow plane takes one glider at a time so each person will have
a flight in turn.
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