The grading system is a standardized scale that relates to the International Scale of River Difficulty. It reflects the technical difficulty and skill level required associated with the section of river/sea. We categorise our kayaking insurance into 3 separate policies: up to grade 3/sea, grade 4&5, and above grade 5.
Up to grade 3/sea
Clear passages, numerous but manageable waves, some rocks. Most white water kayaking in UK (Tay in Scotland, Dee in Wales, Tyne in North England)
Grade 4&5:
“Difficult and very difficult”. Long, sometimes violent rapids, high waves, dangerous rocks, steep gradient, big drops – close study essential, demands expert experience and quality equipment
Above grade 5:
“Exceedingly difficult”. Extremely violent rapids following each other almost without interruption, riverbed mostly obstructed, very steep gradient – close study often difficult/impossible, demands specialist skill