East London Canal Access Network CIC (ELCAN CIC)

We’re a community-led initiative in East London, helping women, especially from global majority backgrounds, feel confident taking up paddling and getting on the water.
Every woman should have the chance to try paddle sports, and we're here to help break down any barriers— whether it's cultural, religious, or financial.
Since launching in 2022, we have grown from an 18-woman class to nine certified instructors and over 100 participants.
Our aim is simple: to make paddling more welcoming, keep it affordable, and encourage more women to grow into community leaders.

Hi and thanks for signing up for our next litter picking event! This event is scheduled for 2 hours from 11.00pm on Saturday 12 September, starting &amp; finishing at Poplar Union. What to wearOn the day, please wear clothes suitable for moderate outdoor activity - you don't need any special gear, just comfy clothes which aren't too precious and sensible, closed toe flat shoes. People tend to stay mostly dry other than a few paddle splashes, but you may want to bring a change of clothes and a towel just in case.&nbsp; The changing rooms are closed for refurbishments, but there is a shower that can be used in an emergency. Finding us on the day&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To find us on the day please check out Poplar Union’s location&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Poplar+Union/@51.5156482,-0.0253532,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x48761d4abb4ad6d5:0x5f623dd74532a526!8m2!3d51.5156449!4d-0.0231645">here</a>. The full address is 2 Cotall St, Poplar, London E14 6TL. For more information on how to get there please visit Poplar Union’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://poplarunion.com/how-to-get-here-2/">website</a>&nbsp;where they have a number of useful videos explaining this. A member of our coaching team should be around the board racks ready to kit you up. The board racks are behind the large metal doors which open onto the Cotall St. side of the building.&nbsp;The Cotall Street market will be in full swing so we recommend arriving early so you can take a look around first. Looking forward to seeing you on the day! Kind regards, ELCAN CIC

Join in with other locals and get afloat and clean the Limehouse Cut Canal at Poplar Union!Welcome to the Poplar Pick up!Join us at&nbsp;Poplar Union&nbsp;for a day of making our waterways cleaner and greener. Grab your trash bag and jump in a boat or on a paddleboard, and let's work together to rid the waterways of plastic waste. Whether you're a seasoned canoeist or trying it for the first time, all are welcome! You don't need any special equipment, everything is provided, but bring a change of clothes and shoes just in case you get splashed.Kayaks seat two people, so you can come along with a friend or family member (you'll both need a ticket) or pair up with someone new when you arrive.Participants of all ages are welcome, but under 18's must have a parent or guardian in the boat with them and be supervised at all times.Let's show some love to our waterways and make a positive impact on the community.Please make sure you arrive promptly, as those who miss the safety briefing will not be able to join in.&nbsp;See you there!

Good morning, Just a reminder that you are booked onto our canal cleanup tomorrow! If you are no longer able to make it please cancel your booking to give someone else a chance to attend. We look forward to seeing you all tomorrow! Kind regards, ELCAN CIC

Poplar Union Waterways Cleanup (September) 

Taster sessions10 kayaks6 paddleboards2 katakanus1 canalboat

Poplar Union

Hello and thanks for your booking!We are excited to meet you and get you out on the water! The meeting point for this session is the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Oar+and+Explore/@51.5202644,-0.0107714,19z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761d005e5e6adb:0x5b5631d2d8ed85b5!8m2!3d51.5202907!4d-0.010974!16s%2Fg%2F11mm6fnv7x!5m1!1e4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQyMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D">Oar &amp; Explore club boat store</a> (what3words: ///taped.linked.tuned). Unfortunately we cannot accommodate latecomers so please arrive 10 minutes before your designated start time.On the day, please wear clothes suitable for moderate outdoor activity - you don't need any special gear, just comfy clothes which aren't too precious and sensible, closed toe flat shoes. People tend to stay mostly dry other than a few paddle splashes.Unfortunately we don't have any changing rooms or toilets nearby, so please make sure you arrive ready to go on the water!You may wish to bring:<ul><li>suncream</li><li>a warm hat/sunhat</li><li>drinking water</li><li>splash proof jacket or trousers (especially if it's a windy day)</li><li>a towel (just in case!)</li></ul>Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult whilst on the water. All participants will require a ticket so please ensure you have booked for the correct number of attendees.If you have any questions about your booking please contact us at info@elcancic.comKind regards,ELCAN CIC

Explore the local waterways on our guided katakanus trip! This session is suitable for complete beginners. You will be led by an experienced coach. There are 5 spaces on each katakanu and you will be accompanied by an experienced instructor. Please note you will be provided with a paddle and required to assist with the paddling.Children welcome. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Child

Child over 8

member

Good morning,Just a quick reminder that you are due to join us on Saturday for a guided katakanus trip! The meeting point is the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Oar+and+Explore/@51.5202644,-0.0107714,19z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761d005e5e6adb:0x5b5631d2d8ed85b5!8m2!3d51.5202907!4d-0.010974!16s%2Fg%2F11mm6fnv7x!5m1!1e4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQyMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D">Oar and Explore club boat store.</a>Your session will begin at the time you have booked and we cannot accommodate late arrivals.If you can no longer make it please cancel your space to enable someone else to take part.We look forward to seeing you at the weekend!Kind regards,ELCAN CIC

Teviot Pontoon

Thank you for booking an Oar &amp; Explore Women's Paddlesport session!• This is a club led by qualified volunteer paddle sport instructors.• All participants are expected to support carrying equipment at the beginning and end of each session. Everyone must help!• We have a variety of craft including kayaks, double kayaks and paddleboards, these will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.• This is an adult-only women's session - please do not bring children or any men.• Closed-toe flat shoes must be worn.• Bring a spare set of clothes in case you get wet.• In poor weather, please check your emails in case the session is cancelled. If you do not receive a cancellation email, the session will go ahead.• Please arrive 10 minutes before your session start time.• If you are over 10 minutes late to your session, you may not be given entry as you will have missed the safety briefing.• Personal belongings can be kept in the boat store whilst you are on the water but we encourage you not to bring any valuables.• If you would like to have a picnic, please bring your own food and drink, wrapped securely. There will be space on your craft to store your food.• We do not recommend taking your phone out onto the water, but if you do and wish to take photographs, please keep them for personal use only, and do not share photos with other people in them on social media without their permission.• This session will start and end at the Teviot Pontoon, Oar &amp; Explore Boat Store, 466 Teviot Street, London, E14 6TL: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/jjyeH8RpfQKSVLSX8">https://maps.app.goo.gl/jjyeH8RpfQKSVLSX8</a>Cancelling your booking:Our sessions are very popular and get booked up quickly! If you find you are no longer able to attend your booking, please do cancel your booking through this email.After you have done this, we ask you to:1. Write a message in the 'Oar &amp; Explore' big group chat to say you cancelled your booking, so others know there is a space available to book on. (We do not have a waiting list option anymore as our booking system did not automatically notify people on the waiting list if a space became available. Link to join WhatsApp: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t">https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t</a>).2. Email <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:oar.and.explore@gmail.com">oar.and.explore@gmail.com</a> with your name and cancelled booking date. (Unfortunately, when you cancel your booking, you are not automatically refunded. We have to manually do this. By emailing us, we can ensure your refund is processed).See here for full terms, conditions and safety information: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://bit.ly/OarExploreTC">https://bit.ly/OarExploreTC</a>For more information, go to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.oarandexplore.com">www.oarandexplore.com</a> or email <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:oar.and.explore@gmail.com">oar.and.explore@gmail.com</a> for any queries.Looking forward to seeing you soon,From all the team at Oar &amp; Explore!

Join our women-only paddlesport session and choose between a kayak or paddleboard. Whether you're completely new to paddlesports or looking to build your confidence on the water, our friendly instructors will guide you through the basics in a supportive, relaxed environment. Come along, meet like-minded women, and enjoy a fun time on the water.&nbsp;(If a session is fully booked, please look out for a cancellation message in the Oar &amp; Explore group chat: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t">https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t</a>)&nbsp;Oar &amp; ExploreThis session is held by Oar &amp; Explore. We’re a community-led initiative in East London, helping women, especially those from Muslim and global majority backgrounds, feel confident taking up paddling and getting on the water.&nbsp;Every woman should have the chance to try paddle sports, and we're here to help break down any barriers— whether it's cultural, religious, or financial.&nbsp;Since launching in 2022, we have grown from an 18-woman class to nine certified instructors and over 100 participants.&nbsp;Our aim is simple: to make paddling more welcoming, keep it affordable, and encourage more women to grow into community leaders.&nbsp;Please contact <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:oar.and.explore@gmail.com">oar.and.explore@gmail.com</a> or visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://oarandexplore.com">oarandexplore.com</a> to make any queries about this session.

Hi, This is a reminder that you are booked onto an upcoming paddling session. If you are unable to make it, please ensure you cancel your booking.In the meantime, we look forward to paddling with you.All the best, Oar &amp; Explore team

O&E Tuesday Women's Only Paddle Session (Members Only) 

Thank you for booking an Oar &amp; Explore Women's Paddlesport session!<ul><li>This is a club led by qualified volunteer paddle sport instructors.</li><li>All participants are expected to support carrying equipment at the beginning and end of each session. Everyone must help!</li><li>We have a variety of craft including kayaks, double kayaks and paddleboards, these will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.</li><li>This is an adult-only women's session - please do not bring children or any men.</li><li>Closed-toe flat shoes must be worn.</li><li>Bring a spare set of clothes in case you get wet.</li><li>In poor weather, please check your emails in case the session is cancelled. If you do not receive a cancellation email, the session will go ahead.</li><li>Please arrive 10 minutes before your session start time.</li><li>If you are over 10 minutes late to your session, you may not be given entry as you will have missed the safety briefing.</li><li>Personal belongings can be kept in the boat store whilst you are on the water but we encourage you not to bring any valuables.</li><li>If you would like to have a picnic, please bring your own food and drink, wrapped securely. There will be space on your craft to store your food.</li><li>We do not recommend taking your phone out onto the water, but if you do and wish to take photographs, please keep them for personal use only, and do not share photos with other people in them on social media without their permission.</li><li>This session will start and end at the Teviot Pontoon, Oar &amp; Explore Boat Store, 466 Teviot Street, London, E14 6TL: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/jjyeH8RpfQKSVLSX8">https://maps.app.goo.gl/jjyeH8RpfQKSVLSX8</a></li></ul>&nbsp;Cancelling your booking:Our sessions are very popular and get booked up quickly!&nbsp;If you find you are no longer able to attend your booking, please do cancel your booking through this email.&nbsp;After you have done this, we ask you to:&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Write a message in the 'Oar &amp; Explore' big group chat to say you cancelled your booking, so others know there is a space available to book on. (We do not have a waiting list option anymore as our booking system did not automatically notify people on the waiting list if a space became available. Link to join WhatsApp: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t">https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t</a>).2. Email <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:oar.and.explore@gmail.com">oar.and.explore@gmail.com</a> with your name and cancelled booking date. (Unfortunately, when you cancel your booking, you are not automatically refunded. We have to manually do this. By emailing us, we can ensure your refund is processed).&nbsp;&nbsp;See here for full terms, conditions and safety information: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://bit.ly/OarExploreTC">https://bit.ly/OarExploreTC</a>&nbsp;For more information, go to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.oarandexplore.com">www.oarandexplore.com</a> or email <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:oar.and.explore@gmail.com">oar.and.explore@gmail.com</a> for any queries.&nbsp;Looking forward to seeing you soon,&nbsp;From all the team at Oar &amp; Explore!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Join our women-only paddlesport session and choose between a kayak or paddleboard. Whether you're completely new to paddlesports or looking to build your confidence on the water, our friendly instructors will guide you through the basics in a supportive, relaxed environment. Come along, meet like-minded women, and enjoy a fun time on the water.(If a session is fully booked, please look out for a cancellation message in the Oar &amp; Explore group chat: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t">https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ld7UWj5uyfsLHZxVaVcYYa?mode=gi_t</a>)Oar &amp; ExploreThis session is held by Oar &amp; Explore. We’re a community-led initiative in East London, helping women, especially those from Muslim and global majority backgrounds, feel confident taking up paddling and getting on the water.Every woman should have the chance to try paddle sports, and we're here to help break down any barriers— whether it's cultural, religious, or financial.Since launching in 2022, we have grown from an 18-woman class to nine certified instructors and over 100 participants.Our aim is simple: to make paddling more welcoming, keep it affordable, and encourage more women to grow into community leaders.Please contact <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="mailto:oar.and.explore@gmail.com">oar.and.explore@gmail.com</a> or visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://oarandexplore.com">oarandexplore.com</a> to make any queries about this session.

O&E Friday Women's Only Paddle Session (Members Only) 

Hi and thanks for signing up for our next litter picking event!We are excited to meet you and get you out on the water! The meeting point for this session is the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Oar+and+Explore/@51.5202644,-0.0107714,19z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761d005e5e6adb:0x5b5631d2d8ed85b5!8m2!3d51.5202907!4d-0.010974!16s%2Fg%2F11mm6fnv7x!5m1!1e4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQyMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D">Oar &amp; Explore club boat store</a> (what3words: ///taped.linked.tuned). Unfortunately we cannot accommodate latecomers so please arrive 10 minutes before your designated start time. This event is scheduled for 2 hours from 11.00pm on Saturday 26 September.On the day, please wear clothes suitable for moderate outdoor activity - you don't need any special gear, just comfy clothes which aren't too precious and sensible, closed toe flat shoes. People tend to stay mostly dry other than a few paddle splashes.Unfortunately we don't have any changing rooms or toilets nearby, so please make sure you arrive ready to go on the water!You may wish to bring:<ul><li>suncream</li><li>a warm hat/sunhat</li><li>drinking water</li><li>splash proof jacket or trousers (especially if it's a windy day)</li><li>a towel (just in case!)</li></ul>Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult whilst on the water. All participants will require a ticket so please ensure you have booked for the correct number of attendees.Kind regards,ELCAN CIC

Join us at&nbsp;the Teviot Pontoon&nbsp;to help clean up our waterways! Grab your trash bag and jump in a boat or on a paddleboard, and let's work together to rid the waterways of plastic waste. Whether you're a seasoned canoeist or trying it for the first time, all are welcome!You don't need any special equipment, everything is provided, but bring a change of clothes and shoes just in case you get splashed.Participants of all ages are welcome, but under 18's must have a parent or guardian in the boat with them and be supervised at all times. There will be 4 tandem kayaks, 6 single kayaks and 2 paddle boards available during the session. Priority over specific craft will be given to those booking on with young children.Please make sure you arrive promptly, as those who miss the safety briefing will not be able to join in.&nbsp;Let's show some love to our waterways and make a positive impact on the community.See you there!

Hello and thanks for booking onto our Discover Course. We are excited to meet you and get you out on the water! The meeting point for this session is the <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Oar+and+Explore/@51.5202644,-0.0107714,19z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x48761d005e5e6adb:0x5b5631d2d8ed85b5!8m2!3d51.5202907!4d-0.010974!16s%2Fg%2F11mm6fnv7x!5m1!1e4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQyMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Oar &amp; Explore club boat store</a> (what3words: ///taped.linked.tuned). Unfortunately we cannot accommodate latecomers so please arrive on time. Please wear clothes suitable for moderate outdoor activity - you don't need any special gear, just comfy clothes which aren't too precious and sensible, closed toe flat shoes. We expect you to stay mostly dry other than a few paddle splashes. Unfortunately we don't have any changing rooms or toilets nearby, so please make sure you arrive ready to go on the water! We recommend you bring;<ul><li>suncream</li><li>a warm hat/sunhat</li><li>drinking water/snacks</li><li>splash proof jacket or trousers (especially if it's a windy day)</li><li>a towel (just in case!)</li></ul> There will be a 1 hour lunch break so please bring a packup with you. If you have any questions about your booking please contact us at info@elcancic.com Kind regards, ELCAN CIC

<h2>Join us for this one day course where you will work towards obtaining your Discover award!</h2> If you've ever wanted to learn more about paddlesports, now's your chance! The Discover Award is open to all adult beginners or those who have already completed the Start Award. One of our Senior coaches will work with you to evolve your decision making and practical skills, giving you confidence on the water. The aim is to become a more skilled and independent paddler. You will learn how to choose and effectively use equipment, whilst developing an understanding of the factors which affect your paddling. Please note you will obtain your Start Award as a minimum during this one-day course. We cannot guarantee you will reach the level required to obtain your Discover Award, however with hard work and a desire to learn it is possible!

Thank you for registering your interest in a free trial paddle session. A member of the Oar &amp; Explore team will be in touch with you to confirm details in the next few days. Please contact oar.and.explore@gmail.com or visit oarandexplore.com to make any queries about this session.

Interested in joining our women's only boat club but keen to have a taster session first? Please follow the instructions to register for a free trial session! Ignore the date and time, a member from the Oar &amp; Explore team will be in touch to confirm your trial session. Whether you're completely new to paddlesports or looking to build your confidence on the water, our friendly instructors will guide you through the basics in a supportive, relaxed environment. Come along, meet like-minded women, and enjoy a fun time on the water. Oar &amp; ExploreOur paddle sessions are run by Oar &amp; Explore. We’re a community-led initiative in East London, helping women, especially those from Muslim and global majority backgrounds, feel confident taking up paddling and getting on the water. Every woman should have the chance to try paddle sports, and we're here to help break down any barriers— whether it's cultural, religious, or financial. Our aim is simple: to make paddling more welcoming, keep it affordable, and encourage more women to grow into community leaders. Please contact oar.and.explore@gmail.com or visit oarandexplore.com to make any queries about this session.

O&E Women Only Paddlesport (Free Trial – Register Interest)

Thank you for paying your annual Oar &amp; Explore membership fee. You can now book onto paddle sessions through this link: <a href="https://book.plinth.org.uk/org/yXoMMiiZzAnjDUlFmnQ0" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">East London Canal Access Network CIC (ELCAN CIC) - plinth</a> Please contact oar.and.explore@gmail.com or visit oarandexplore.com to make any queries about sessions or your membership.

You need a membership to book onto any paddle sessions run by Oar &amp; Explore. Please follow the instructions to pay your annual membership fee for Oar &amp; Explore. This annual fee is £10 and will run out on 31st March 2027. Oar &amp; ExploreOur paddle sessions are run by Oar &amp; Explore. We’re a community-led initiative in East London, helping women, especially those from Muslim and global majority backgrounds, feel confident taking up paddling and getting on the water. Every woman should have the chance to try paddle sports, and we're here to help break down any barriers— whether it's cultural, religious, or financial. Our aim is simple: to make paddling more welcoming, keep it affordable, and encourage more women to grow into community leaders. Please contact oar.and.explore@gmail.com or visit oarandexplore.com to make any queries about this session.

East London Canal Access Network CIC (ELCAN CIC)

Poplar Union Waterways Cleanup (September)

Guided Katakanus trip

O&E Tuesday Women's Only Paddle Session (Members Only)

O&E Friday Women's Only Paddle Session (Members Only)

Community Litterpick

Paddle UK ‘Discover’ Training Day

O&E Women Only Paddlesport (Free Trial – Register Interest)

O&E Annual Membership Fee 2026-2027