Meet Russ: Your Highland Paddle Board Guide
25+ Years on the Water. Veteran Discipline.
My name is Christopher Russell, but in the field, everyone knows me as Russ. I was born in Balintore and raised in the shadow of the Mermaid of the North. The waters of the Seaboard Villages have been my garden and my training ground for most of my life.
I also spent a significant part of my youth in Ardross, long before the castle became famous on TV's The Traitors. Growing up between the rugged hills of Ardross and the shores of Easter Ross gave me a deep appreciation for the diverse landscapes of the Highlands.
With over 30 years of paddling experience across the Great Glen, local lochs, and the North Sea, I’ve spent a lifetime learning how to read the water. That experience is grounded in the discipline I gained during my six years of service in The Highlanders (4th Battalion), serving in both the TA and the Regulars. That military background is at the heart of the leadership and safety-first approach I bring to every tour today.
Professional Standards
I believe in doing things right. That’s why I am currently an instructor in training with Paddle Scotland, constantly refining my skills with certifications in Navigation, Tides, Weather, and specialized safety protocols. Every session is equipped with first-class kit—including Tidal Rave boards and Lomo QR safety belts—and I am fully First Aid certified.
Our Story and Mission
The Inspiration: A Legacy for Kiean
The real spark behind Paddle ’n Skidaddle with Russ wasn’t a business plan—it was a father wanting the best for his son. Watching Kiean find his "water-legs" and seeing the pure, quiet confidence he developed while out on his board or exploring with his snorkel changed everything for me.
I’ve spent 25+ years learning the rhythms of the North Sea and the Highland lochs, but seeing the water through Kiean’s eyes reminded me that these experiences are life-changing. He is the heart of this business and the reason I decided to take 30 years of experience and share it with others. I wouldn’t put my son on a board or in a location I didn’t trust 100%, and I bring that same standard to every person I teach.
The Journey: From The Highlanders to the Highlands
My story started in the Seaboard Villages, growing up with the sea as my garden and the Mermaid of the North as my backdrop. Following my service with The Highlanders (4th Battalion) in both the TA and the Regulars, I spent the next 25+ years honing my skills as an outdoorsman across Easter Ross and the hills of Ardross.
I realized that the Highland waters can be a place of incredible peace, but they require respect and discipline. Paddle ’n Skidaddle was born from a desire to bridge that gap—combining "old-school" water-sense with modern, professional safety standards.
Our Mission: Excellence on the Water
Our mission is to provide world-class paddleboarding experiences rooted in local knowledge and veteran discipline. We aren't just a rental shop; we are a dedicated training venture.
We are committed to:
The Individual: High-quality, 1-to-1 sessions that focus on your growth and confidence.
Professional Kit: Using only the best gear, like Tidal Rave boards and Lomo QR safety belts.
The Future: We are currently reinvesting 100% of our profits back into the business. We are building a Highland legacy, one paddler at a time, ensuring that the next generation of adventurers has the skills to explore "Easter Ross and beyond" safely.
Join Us for a Paddle Adventure
Discover the Highlands from the Water
Whether new to paddle boarding or refining your skills, you are welcome to join Russ for coaching sessions or scenic tours along Balintore’s coast. Experience expert guidance in small groups or private lessons, surrounded by pristine natural beauty.