Learning to row has different paths for different people. Some members come to the club with plenty of experience, some with none. The Dolphin Club tries to adapt the pace of learning to fit the needs of the individual member, but the general path is the same for all.
To request an orientation, please fill out our Training Request Form. Training is available for club members only.
Experience Rowing
If you’re just curious about rowing and have never rowed before, go out with an experienced rower as a passenger – or if they’re willing – you may be able to join them in a double with permission from the Boat Captain. Make friends with a rower and ask them if they’ll take you along. It’s a fun, simple way to get a feel for the boats.
Single Orientation
To start rowing by yourself, you must take an orientation class to become familiar with the procedures and use of the craft. You’ll learn how to launch, row, and return our boats. Orientations for new rowers are typically done in our heavier whitehall-style rowboats. If you have some rowing experience, you may request an orientation in one of our open-water or coastal shells.
Solo Practice
After your orientation, will practice by yourself, on your own time, inside the cove. Most beginners require six outings in the cove to become comfortable and confident behind the oars and launching and recovering the boat. Improving your rowing technique makes rowing more enjoyable and easier on your body. You can learn a bunch of tips in our Rowing Technique Guide. We recommend that you practice as soon as possible after your orientation to reinforce what you have just learned.
Join outings in doubles, James Storm (quad), and Wieland (six-seat barge)
Once you’re feeling comfortable with your rowing stroke, you may also go out in doubles with other certified rowers, or join a practice in the quad or six-person barge. Keep an eye on our WhatsApp group and the Boating listserv for opportunities.
Group Rows & Club Swims
The best way to build experience is with others. Once you’re confident handling your boat, you may join other certified members for outings outside of the cove. You are also encouraged to participate in club swims as a pilot escort – there is no better way to become involved in club activities, get experience on the bay and and meet other members.
Tuesday Boat Shop
Dolphin Club boats are largely maintained by members like you. Work on wooden boats is scheduled every Tuesday, alternating between days and nights. There are maintenance opportunities for other boats too. Please join for one of these so you can appreciate what it takes to keep our fleet going.
Bay Safety
There’s a lot going on out on San Francisco Bay: winds, tides, currents, shipping, wildlife, and more. You’ll learn some of this during your orientation, but also read the Bay Safety Guide to become familiar with the full syllabus. Passing a Bay Safety Test is required for certification.
Certification
Once you’re comfortable rowing solo and understand Bay safety, you can seek certification to row out on the Bay alone. Certification is a rite of passage for Dolphin Club rowers. We’ll double check you can take care of the boat, take care of yourself and others around you, and that you understand basic safety and navigation on the Bay. You will plan a trip with a certified member instructor to check that you have the skills and capabilities to take on the more challenging conditions of San Francisco Bay.