What is Get Wet?

Get Wet is a national campaign which opens up an array of opportunities for local people to get involved in a range of watersports. 

The campaign will kick off over the month of June during which there will be a range of watersport clubs based all over Northern Ireland offering local people an opportunity to ‘Have a Go’ in a variety of watersports for free or at a reduced cost! 

Some events might start in May.

There will also be further opportunities to get involved and have a go in a range of additional events and training courses taking place throughout the summer up until the end of August to encourage participants to continue in their chosen watersport.

The campaign is a fantastic opportunity to try out a watersport for the first time and find out how you can continue to enjoy it by becoming part of a club.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is essential for the majority of events – see ‘Contact Details and Booking’ section for event specific details. All bookings must be made via the club/association that is hosting the event.

Who is it suitable for?

The events offered as part of this campaign are suitable for anyone looking to get into a watersport in their local area – no experience necessary. Some events are subject to minimum or maximum requirements specified by the event organiser: e.g. age, health, height or weight. This is outlined in the information provided in the ‘Suitability’ section of each event. It is the participant’s responsibility to ensure they conform to the minimum requirements.

Medical Conditions

Watersports may involve strenuous physical exercise. Participants should consider their personal health and fitness before taking part. Anyone suffering from or ever having suffered from any medical condition, illness, allergy or phobia or who is pregnant should consult their doctor regarding the suitability of their participation. Participants with concerns should only attend following positive advice from their doctor and should make their condition known to the event organiser.

Do I need to stick to my session time?

Yes – each session has a limited capacity so please stick to the session time you have booked. If you want to change your session time please contact the event organiser directly.

Is it possible to get a refund? 

Refunds are at the discretion of each event organiser so please contact them directly if you require a refund.

How do I find out more details about an event? 

Hopefully the comprehensive website will give you all the details you require on each event. However if you have specific enquiries regarding an event please contact the event organiser directly. All contact details are provided on each event page.

Who is responsible for Get Wet?

Get Wet is funded by SportNI with support from a range of water based National Governing Bodies (NGBs). The NGBs involved in this campaign are the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland, the Royal Yachting Association Northern Ireland, British Sub Aqua Club Ireland, Angling NI, Rowing Ireland, Irish Kite Surfing Association, and the Irish Water ski and Wakeboarding Federation.

The 2021 campaign is funded by Sport NI’s Build Back Better Project: Re-boot. 

The campaign aims to encourage sustained local participation and also to raise awareness of the water based recreation opportunities in Northern Ireland.