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Hi VangoMan02.

I’ve done the full length of the Spey on 4 occasions. Three of those times I was leading groups of beginners (trained them a couple of sessions on flat water), A couple of times our dog came too. I start just above Loch Insh (check access as up stream is a nature reserve). The brilliant and rare thing about this river is it starts as flat water and gradually increases to an easy grade 2 over an 80 mile trip. There are no sudden surprises; you can get a good view of the river and see what is coming. In my opinion only the Tandu rapid needs care at very high water, ie the water is above the banks level. If you have done canoeing on lakes this is an excellent first river. The grade two bit is either bump and scrape or lovely bouncy waves. The additional skills you will need are to be able to break out and in – Although the first time I did this river I had never heard of these techniques, Make sure you put a bit extra buoyancy in the canoe so if you do capsize it is easier to get it to the side – Carlisle canoe will have kits,

As long as you have buoyancy aids you will be fine. The minimal danger is from trees especially if you were to take a swim. When I took groups of people who had only canoed to evening as part of the planning , they would average about 1 capsize in the length of the river –  If you need a confidence builder, contact Glenmore lodge at Avimore they will give you a day’s tuition from some of the worlds experts.

The Tay is a different standard, It has two major rapids challenging grade 3+ (compared to the Speys 2-) that although you can walk around, they can sort of sneak up on you. Not a first river.

If I can be of further assistance just post

http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/scotlandnortheast/spey.htm

Kevin,

thanks again for the information and tips,most of our trips have been on Lochs ,canals and some rivers but not really fast moving water or rapids as such with the canadian canoe but have to some degree with the kayaks.So look forward to our learning curve in the canadian lol. The Spey sounds a good option and as you say bouyancy aids are a must and proper bags to store gear.

Although I bought the canoe in Carlisle I actually live in Fife on the east coast. We are also in Aviemore hillwalking several times a year and have often thought about a short canoe skills course at Glenmore Lodge..need to speak to santa...

         thanks again