FWC WILDERNESS CANOEing
*Applications for our wilderness canoeing 2023 now closed*
In September 2023 FWC will take a team of 12 ladies to Sweden to tackle a multi-day open canoe journey, with wild camping en route, in the stunning environment of the Hårkan River System. This expedition will introduce the fundamentals of traditional canoe paddling and will give participants the opportunity to learn how to be self-sufficient in a wilderness environment, with an emphasis on developing self-confidence, resilience, mindfulness and teamwork through the principles and practice of bushcraft.
KEY DATES
Friday 8th September 2023 to Thursday 14th September 2023 - Challenge dates
COULD THIS BE YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?
If you feel this is the adventure for you, please see the FAQ’s below for more details on the expedition and information on how to apply.
DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO PADDLE An open CANOE?
No, this challenge is open to everyone. So if you have never paddled a canoe before, please don’t be put off applying, as we will be provided with tuition throughout our journey.
DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO SWIM?
Yes. You should be able to confidently swim 50 metres; however, buoyancy aids are compulsory when on the water.
DO I HAVE TO BE A FWC MEMBER TO APPLY?
Yes, to apply to participate in this challenge, you have to be a member of FWC. If you are a female with a partner (spouse or long-term partner) in the armed forces (either serving or a veteran) and are not yet a member, please sign up HERE prior to applying for the challenge.
CAN I APPLY FOR MORE THAN ONE OVERSEAS CHALLENGE?
Yes! We welcome you to apply for any challenge you are interested in. Should you not be selected this time, please remember there will be many more opportunities in the future for challenges and events in the UK and overseas.
HOW WILL PARTICIPANTS BE SELECTED FOR THE WILDERNESS CANOE CHALLENGE?
Allocation of places is on a first-come-first-served basis. To apply to take part in this challenge, please email Steph on info@forceswiveschallenge.org from Saturday 19th November 2022, when the applications open.
HOW MUCH WILL THE WILDERNESS CANOE CHALLENGE COST?
There will be a cost of £850 required from each team member, which is an all-inclusive price from arrival at initial campsite in Sweden, through to departure. This includes accommodation, guide costs, food, equipment (but not alcohol!). Flights and personal insurance will be on top of this sum. A deposit of £200 is due within 5 days of acceptance of a place on the challenge.
IS THIS AN OFFICERS’ WIVES THING?
No! FWC does not care if your partner is head of Defence or a brand new service person in training - it is about YOU not your partner.
WHO IS RUNNING THE CHALLENGE?
The challenge is being run by Matt Larsson-Clifford and his company Sweden Outdoors Coaching. Matt is based in Sweden, is ex-military and is a friend of FWC. He was also one of the FWC Heroes of Telemark expedition guides, earlier on this year. Matt runs the same wilderness canoe trip for the RAF and Army as part of the ‘Eagles’ scheme, and it is by far the most popular Eagles expedition!
Head to our WILDERNESS CANOEING Q & A page for some more details about the trip