Discover Rowing
Rowing with VIRC
Rowing is a co-ed sport that appeals equally to teenagers, active retirees, and everyone in-between. Vashon Island is the perfect place to experience rowing. We have an incredible rowing venue and knowledgeable coaches. You can try rowing for a day or sign up for a class. Below are links to all the different ways to experience the sport, from a simple introduction through joining one of our teams. If you are already an experienced rower, contact us to learn about membership options and training schedules.
Join Us
FREE National Learn-To-Row Day - First Saturday in June, at the Boathouse. Just come by!
Observe a Practice - Adults and Teens; arrange a time with the Boathouse Director.
Register for Junior Crew - Teens
Youth Summer Skills Camps - Teens
Adult Learn-To-Row Classes – Adults 18 & Up
Adult Intro to Rowing Classes - Adults 18 & Up
National Learn-to-Row
Join us on the first Saturday in June to celebrate USRowing's National Learn-To-Row Day! The day's activities are free and include opportunities to:
Tour our Boathouse
Learn the basics of the rowing stroke on an indoor rowing machine
Learn the parts of a boat and safety terminology
If the weather cooperates, experience rowing in Quartermaster Harbor in a 4- or 8-person boat with experienced rowers and a coxswain.
No need to sign up; just come to the Boathouse! Use of the equipment and the on-water row is limited to those 12 and older, but all ages are welcome to visit. Save some time by bringing a VIRC Waiver form.
Observe a Practice
If you’re interested in rowing but not sure what it’s all about, email us at info@vashoncrew.com. We’ll put you in touch with one of our coaches who can take you out to watch a practice. You’ll see rowing up close, observe what a water workout looks like, and experience our superb coaching firsthand.
This opportunity is for teens and adults who are considering joining one of our teams. It can be cold on the water so dress appropriately. Waterproof shoes are a good idea and, per Washington State boating requirements, you must wear one of our provided life jackets.
Teen Summer Camps
VIRC offers three Summer Camps for new and experienced teen rowers, and a small-Boat Intensive for mature high school rowers and returning college rowers. Our goal in these programs is for everyone to have fun, get fit, and make friends while increasing their rowing proficiency. Beginning rowers will receive a well-rounded introduction to this great sport.
Adult Learn-To-Row Classes
VIRC offers Adult Learn-To-Row classes at various times of the year for new adult rowers and/or rowers returning from a long hiatus. You can row for fun, fitness, camaraderie and, if you wish, competition. These classes are open to all adults age 19 and up.
“There is nothing like having a rewarding 1-hour workout on glass-smooth water early on a nice morning. The sun rising over Maury Island and lighting up the water, sea birds flying around, seals bobbing their heads up. There’s absolutely no better way to get your day started. ”