Learning to row has different paths for different people. Some members come to the club with plenty of experience, some with none. We try and adapt the pace to fit the needs of the individual, but the general path is the same for all.
To request an orientation, please fill out our Training Request Form
Experience Rowing
If you’re just curious about rowing, and have never rowed before, you might want to just go out with an experienced rower as a passenger – or if they’re willing, you could join them in a double. 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’ll need to go through an orientation 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 already have previous rowing experience, you may request an orientation in one of our coastal boats or shells.
Solo Practice
After your orientation, you’ll be asked to practice by yourself on your own time. Most beginners require six outings in the cove to become comfortable and confident behind the oars. 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 come down to practice again within the first week after your orientation.
Join outings in Doubles, Quad & Wieland
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 our four-person quad or six-person barge. Keep an eye on our WhatsApp group and the Rowing Calendar 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.
Boat Night
Our fleet of boats is largely maintained by members like you. Wooden boat night is held every Tuesday evening from 6-9, and 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 in your orientation, but also read the Bay Safety Guide to become familiar with the full syllabus. Passing the 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 safety on the Bay. You will plan a trip with an instructor to check that you have the skills and capabilities to take on the more challenging conditions of SF Bay. Once your certified, you’ll be a fully fledged rower able to row anywhere you choose.