Experience the enchantment of the river as night falls and the wildlife awakens on our Wildlife Standup Paddling Tour from Batheaston. Led by Aleksander Domanski, an acclaimed wildlife photographer and conservation advocate, this tour is a unique opportunity to delve into the captivating world of river wildlife.
We can tell you it is magical but in the words of people who have already been on the tour:- (read the full reviews at the bottom of this page)
“We had the most magical, idyllic, sublime time.”
“Such a magical evening exploring the river and discovering beavers”
“The paddling was a breeze, easy for complete novices.”
“I felt very privileged to drift down the river spotting herons, beavers, kingfisher etc in companionable quietness.
A joy. Thank you.”“we saw a lot of beavers, and an otter! I highly recommend.”
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Experience the enchantment of the river as night falls and the wildlife awakens on our Wildlife Standup Paddling Tour from Batheaston. Led by the Aleksander Domanski, an acclaimed wildlife photographer and conservation advocate, this tour is a unique opportunity to delve into the captivating world of river wildlife.
Our adventure begins just before dusk in Batheaston, where you'll meet Aleksander Domanski, a passionate nature lover dedicated to capturing the beauty of the natural world and has an extensive background in providing imagery and film for clients such as the BBC, NGOs, and conservation charities.
As we paddle upstream, you'll hear about the intricate interactions between the river's wildlife inhabitants. If we are lucky we may see sightings of otters, beavers, fish, and bats and you’ll witness the nocturnal magic and silence of the river at dusk.
The tour culminates in the dark, providing a truly unique perspective of the river and its nocturnal inhabitants. Marvel at the real beauty of the surroundings and savour the tranquillity that envelops you as we make our back.
It's important to note that this tour is primarily focused on wildlife exploration rather than paddleboarding prowess. Much of the excursion will involve a slow paddle of about 3 miles upstream, often kneeling on the board then floating downstream in silence while sitting or lying on the board.
Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to connect with nature, learn from a renowned wildlife photographer, and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance within the ecosystem.
Join us on the Wildlife Discovery Standup Paddling Tour and let the secrets of the river's nocturnal wildlife unfold before you.
Reserve your spot today and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Dawn Beedle
July 27, 2026
We had a fantastic evening paddleboarding. Roger was a great host and Alek's knowledge of the rivers eco system is truly fascinating. We saw lots of wildlife, including beavers swimming and even saw a mother beaver feeding her kit. I would highly recommend booking a visit with Launch Point Adventures. Just wonderful!
Luke G
July 24, 2026
The River Safari, with Roger and Aleks, was amazing and incredibly informative. We were lucky enough to see beavers both in and out of the water along with a myriad of other wildlife.
If you have not been on a SUP before never fear as Roger is a fantastic instructor and will make you feel confident in no time.
If you are thinking about booking something with Launch Point Adventures, 100% do it.
Fi Thompson
July 16, 2026
Wow - what an incredible wildlife experience on the paddle board Beaver safari. It was so magical paddling at sunset and watching the wonderful beavers along the river and learning so much about them from our expert guide Alex. We were also blessed with kingfishers, herons and bats - what a special night. Thanks Roger for looking after us so well. This is a really unique opportunity to be with nature and stillness - highly recommended. We loved every minute - thank you. 🙏
Richard Hovey
June 26, 2026
Beaver Safari: an amazing evening! We were well looked after, even those of us with little paddle boarding experience and our guide was very knowledgeable about beavers' habits and activity and how to recognise their presence. And we saw a lot of beavers, and an otter! I highly recommend.
Sarah Kearney
May 14, 2026
I feel very fortunate to have had this magical experience watching beavers, bats, herons, grey wagtails and more in their natural habitat and so close to home, with hosts who are so generous with their knowledge and expertise. This is a truly uplifting thing to do to when it’s easy to feel down about the effects of river pollution.
Rachel Bird
September 4, 2025
Absolutely wonderful evening on the River Safari. Beavers and kingfishers and magic. Looked after so well by Roger and Aleks. And I learnt to paddleboard at the same time! Highly recommend this excursion and Launch Point Adventures themselves.
Frome Beaver Watch
August 21, 2025
Of course, I had to go on this safari (Frome Beaver Watch, come on! 😉)—and it did not disappoint! Even if we hadn’t seen any beavers (we did—four of them, three kits and an adult/juvenile), it still would have been an unforgettable experience. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking: the river is so still and reflective it feels like paddling through a Monet painting.
Aleks and Roger are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also so much fun to be around. They kept the pace comfortable for everyone (including me, the slowest paddler thanks to chronic pain 😅) and made sure safety was always a top priority while never compromising on enjoyment.
Beyond the wildlife and stunning landscape, what really stood out was the atmosphere they created—relaxed, welcoming, and full of laughter. I even came away with some wonderful new friends.
Just book it. You won’t be disappointed. And no, this isn’t sponsored—just one very happy adventurer sharing an amazing experience! Love Soph. 🦫
Tessa Mann
August 9, 2025
What a magical evening!
Roger and Alex are brilliant leaders,
Inspiring confidence and sharing their knowledge and experience of local wildlife.
I had never been on a paddleboard before. Roger made it very easy and there were no mishaps!
I felt very privileged to drift down the river spotting herons, beavers, kingfisher etc in companionable quietness.
A joy. Thank you.
Sue May
August 9, 2025
Lovely evening for the beaver safari. Beautiful river and knowledgeable hosts. And we saw beavers!
Duncan Briggs
June 18, 2025
What an amazing evening!! Aleks was extremely knowledgeable about the whole river ecosystem, not just the beaver population. The paddling was a breeze, easy for complete novices. Having paddled upstream it was blissfully chill to just float back down the river in silence looking for beaver activity as the sun set. And yes, we did spot a couple and heard the movements of several more.
Nikki Plowman
May 29, 2025
Roger immediately put us at ease with his warm and friendly, knowledgable manner. We all learnt loads of new information and new techniques on the Paddleboard. The kids aged 8-13 said that at no point was it boring- they loved the games and competitions, the information about the wildlife. My 8 year old never knew that beavers were nocturnal! Just a throughly brilliant morning was had by all aged 8-45…
Siobhain Archer
August 5, 2024
Such a magical evening exploring the river and discovering beavers - a perfect gift with great company - thank you Roger and Alex!
Sally McLeod
July 26, 2024
We had a brilliant River Safari with Al and Alex. Al immediately made us feel confident on the SUP's before we headed off up stream with Alex pointing out evidence of beaver activity. Drifting back felt like being in a different world hadnt expected the bonus of hearing beavers chomping on branches and splashing into the water. Highly recommended.
Brett Hardy
July 17, 2024
Yesterday evening, Alex and Roger lead a small group of us on a Beaver safari up the river Avon. The weather was perfect and we all had a fabulous time. And, we saw a couple of Beavers, and a majestic Barn Owl as well as lots of other wildlife. Our hosts were very knowledgeable. I would not hesitate to recommend. Thankyou for a wonderful trip.
Lissy Kelleher-Clarke
June 26, 2024
We went on a night-time wildlife SUP safari in June 2024. We had the most magical, idyllic, sublime time. We were able to see a great deal of wildlife - including beavers - as well as truly relax and enjoy the night air on the river. Roger is an incredibly supportive, knowledgeable and friendly guide who makes you feel completely at ease. Thank you so much!
