Thinking about giving gig rowing a go? You’re in the right place.

Whether you’re completely new to rowing, looking for a new challenge, or just curious about getting out on the water—we’re really glad you’ve found us.

Starting something new can feel daunting.
But here’s the good news… every single one of us started exactly where you are now.

And we can confidently say—it’s worth it.

Your First Row What to Expect at Your First Session
From beach to boat, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Just turn up and get involved. 1 Meet the crew & launch the boat

You’ll be greeted on the beach and shown how to help launch the gig — it’s a team effort. 2 Learn the basics on dry land

We’ll walk through rowing technique, crew timing, and safety before you head out to sea. 3 Row for 45 minutes

Once briefed, you’ll head out for your first session. Not in the first crew? Relax and get to know everyone.

A supportive, step-by-step introduction

Your first few sessions are designed to help you build confidence, learn safely, and enjoy the experience from day one.

Before you even get on the water:

  • You’ll meet the crew
  • Learn how to safely launch the boat (everyone gets involved)
  • Get a simple walkthrough of what to do

Once you’re ready, you’ll head out on the water with:

👉 4 experienced rowers + up to 2 beginners
👉 A knowledgeable cox guiding the session

No pressure. No expectations. Just learning and enjoying it.

Your Intro Journey (Typically 3 Sessions)

We ease you in gradually so you feel comfortable every step of the way:

Session Focus:

✅ How to sit and set up correctly

✅ How to hold and control the oar

✅ The rowing stroke (the power phase)

✅ The recovery (resetting smoothly)

✅ Key commands from the cox

✅ What to do if things go wrong (e.g. “catching a crab”)

✅ Most importantly: how to row together as a team

By the end, most people feel confident enough to join regular club rows.

Why It Can Take a Little Time

It’s not just about availability—it’s about safety

You might have noticed a bit of a wait between getting in touch and your first session—thank you for your patience.

Here’s why:

The River Exe narrows significantly between Exmouth and Dawlish Warren. During large tides, this creates very strong currents.

For experienced rowers, that’s manageable.
For beginners—we want to give you the best possible first experience.

So we carefully plan sessions around:

✅ Safe tide conditions ✅ Crew availability ✅ The right balance of experienced rowers

Your first row is set up for success—not survival.

Where to Meet

📍 Most sessions start here:

Shelly Beach (our main base)
What3Words: drag.installs.shrugging

  • Launch point for beginner sessions
  • Home of our training boat Avocet
  • Meet directly on the sand (no clubhouse)

Other Key Locations

Boat Yard (tutorial.driver.modem)
Where our traditional wooden boats are stored.

Pirate Cove (robe.stun.lions)
Occasionally used for intro sessions—check your session details.

Belchers Slip (remit.loose.prouder)
Used by experienced crews only.

Parking:
Camperdown Car Park (belts.examine.undivided)
Use Ringo App (Location ID: 42950)

What to Wear

Simple rule: Dress for the weather… and the water

Rowing is outdoors in Devon—which means… anything can happen ☀️🌧️🌬️

In warmer weather:

  • Shorts & T-shirt
  • Light layer to start
  • Waterproof packed under your seat

In colder weather:

  • Leggings or training bottoms
  • Thermal layers
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Gloves (optional)

Always expect:

✅ Wet feet (up to knees sometimes!)
✅ Changing conditions mid-session

Top tip: Wear old trainers or water-friendly shoes.

After Your Intro Sessions

Ready to keep going? Most people are.

After your three sessions, you can:

✅ Join as a full member

or

✅ Take a few more intro rows if needed

There’s no rush—we’ll support you either way.

Life as a Member

Once you join, you unlock the full club experience:

🚣‍♂️ Regular club rows (twice a week)

🏁 Opportunities to race and compete

🌊 Regattas (including hosting our own!)

🍻 Social events on and off the water

We’re more than a club—we’re a community.

When Do We Row?

Club Rows:

  • Wednesday evenings (18:00)
  • Saturday mornings (09:00)

New rowers join these sessions alongside experienced crews when conditions allow.

👉 Just give at least 48 hours’ notice so we can organise your place.

A Final Word Before You Join Us

You don’t need to be fit.
You don’t need experience.
You just need to show up.

We’re a friendly, welcoming, and slightly chatty bunch—and we’ll make sure you feel part of the crew from your very first session.

Your first row is the hardest step. After that, it’s just enjoyment.