Rowing Information

Rowing at CRAC

At CRAC, rowing is for everyone, whether you're chasing the thrill of competition or just enjoying the calm of a paddle on the water. We offer a mix of social rows, training sessions and the chance to take part in exciting events and regattas. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced rower looking for your next challenge, there's a place for you here.

Recreational & Social Rows

A major focus of the club is to support the enjoyment of our members rowing coastal boats in and around the harbour.

• As individuals improving our fitness, coordination and skills

• As squads, crews and groups; mixing socially to help and support each other learn, improve and enjoy

Social rows are low to moderate intensity, include a warm up/warm down, but with little instruction unless requested to the cox. Expect plenty of chat, bird/seal watching and the odd bit of cake consumed.

Development Rows

These rows are fantastic for beginners, new members and aspiring racers to have a go at a different boat class, and/or learn and master the basics of the rowing technique. They are deliberately set to the base competency of the crew and we gently build you up over a number of sessions, improving your overall fitness, flexibility and understanding of correct form and oar technique. These rows enable members to deepen their enjoyment of our popular Social rows, and form an important foundation to go forward into more challenging rows with confidence.

Race Training Rows

Exactly what it says on the tin! Be prepared to work a little harder, breathe a little faster and learn a ton of technique from our experienced Instructors as they guide you through the finer points of rowing for performance. Not just for those who’ve raced before, these are open to all who want to further their fitness, deepen their understanding and come off the water feeling stronger. You may even catch the bug for racing, like so many of our members have!

Endurance Rows

Our normal rows are typically 60-90 minutes in length. These rows are a different beast altogether. These are a minimum 2-hours with long sustained sections, minimum breaks and rolling water stops, covering at least 8-12km. Essential training for those annual race challenges like Round Hayling, Saltash and Tudor/Cockleshell Challenges, these will take you to another level of fitness and stamina.

RowFit 

The club has access, via the Coastal Rowing Academy, to indoor fitness sessions focussing on row-specific exercises and workouts on rowing machines.

Events, Racing & Regattas

We encourage members to get involved in events and racing — whether for the thrill of competition, the challenge or simply to try something new. Our training sessions and friendly encouragement help make participation accessible and enjoyable for everyone. It’s not just about winning — regattas and events are great social occasions and a brilliant way to connect with other clubs and celebrate the sport we love.

League Racing & Championships

These competitive events involve points, rankings, and trophies, so regular training and teamwork are essential. We compete in both Cornish Pilot Gig, Celtic Longboat and Coastal Sculling boats, with opportunities to race at local, national and international levels — including the World Championships. Rowing Captains lead crew selection and preparation, making sure fitness, form, and readiness are all considered.

Want to Get Involved?

Ready to get on the water? Visit our Find out More page to book a taster session!