Where Mixed Mode has taken us in 2024

At OceanRock, we believe in giving the option to do the Duke of Edinburgh’s award differently. The DofE mixed mode expedition offers a unique twist on expeditions combining multiple forms of travel for an enhanced feeling of adventure! Walking, cycling, canoeing, horse riding, and sailing are all valid modes of transportation accepted by DofE. Here at OceanRock, we have pooled our expertise in both canoeing and walking expeditions to be able to bring to you an exciting alternative expedition style, where each day brings fresh perspectives and new challenges.

Why Mixed Mode?

Mixed mode is an adventure! Switching between modes of travels adds an extra bit of variety to an expedition, making it an engaging alternative to single mode expeditions. With each change, participants experience new terrain, build a wide range of skills, and work together as a team to navigate diverse environments. This approach offers a complexity and variety that teams genuinely value, ensuring that each journey becomes an unforgettable experience.

Diverse skill development.

As participants navigate both land and water, they develop skills across two unique environments. While some skills, such as timing and navigation, are shared across modes, others are specific and unique. Canoeing introduces techniques like self-rescue during a capsize, while walking encourages reading terrain contours and mastering pacing. Our training is designed to maintain the same high standard as single-mode expeditions, guaranteeing that participants build proficiency across each mode.

Explore stunning landscapes.

The beauty of mixed mode expeditions lies in the variety of landscapes. By alternating between modes, participants enjoy access to some of the UK’s most breathtaking terrains. We’ve carefully hand-picked our locations and routes to visit spectacular locations. Imagine standing atop a peak you’ve just conquered, to look down and see the lake or river which you had successfully paddled the day before.