Yes, you can: Lanzarote to host its first-ever adapted water sports event for people with disabilities of all types

The water sports camp will be held from October 6-13th and is the first of its kind in the Canaries.

UCan has been organised by LanzAbility , the only accessible holiday provider for those with disabilities on Lanzarote, in partnership with Ao! Experience , the island's sole adventure company which offers a range of water-based excursions and activities for people with mobility problems. The camp is also suitable for those with Special Educational Needs and Autism, sight loss and full-time wheelchair users.

The camp will feature seven days of adapted water sports, relaxation and community bonding. Activities featured include adapted kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, adapted surfing and surf kayaking. Locations are quiet and peaceful, and all the activities are aided by experienced, specialist instructors using adapted specialist equipment.

Camp clients can bring carers and/or family members and clients' needs are assessed prior to travel so both the right support and specialist equipment is provided for the individual.

Adapted travel is included from the also adapted accommodation to locations via a wheelchair adapted vehicle (WAV), which is a minivan that can hold eight passengers. Ramps and transfer boards are all provided.

The accommodation consists of a one bedroom, fully adapted apartment with a tranquil garden view, or a more spacious two-bedroom fully adapted apartment with direct access to the pool area. Both are located at Nautilus Lanzarote, a quiet and peaceful area, just short drive from all the activities and away from the main tourist destinations.

David Penney, who established LanzAbility three years ago after seeing the need for disability-friendly holidays in the Canaries, thought of the water sports camp idea along with Alessandro Baklouti, who is the only registered ISA Adaptive Surf Instructor on Lanzarote.

David said:

We recognised that together we had the opportunity to make dreams come true for others who previously thought that the ocean was not accessible to them. 

With this vision we can make it happen for many who had disabilities and never believed it was possible.

He added:

This could be a once in a lifetime experience for people. We see it as a holiday with a purpose which focuses on the ability, not the disability. As well as the thrilling activities, we also focus on the client's well-being, tailored to their individual needs, and believe they truly deserve this type of adventure which is so hard to come by for too many.

With this opportunity, our clients can experience an unforgettable week and return home with cherished memories, new skills and stories to share from their time at the camp.