Frequently Asked Questions

Send us your questions using the "Contact Us" page and we may include them here.

Who can row?
What are NPBRC's membership requirements?
Where do you row, and how's the water?
What about motorboats?
Do you have a trial membership rate?
When is your next Learn to Row class?
Do you offer storage for privately owned shells?
Do you ever row earlier than 6:30 am?
What can we do after our Learn to Row class to keep at it?

Q: Who can row?

A: Really, anyone. No kidding. If you can fit in the boat, you can row. (Boats are built for a wide variety of sizes and shapes.) Rowing is an ideal sport for people of any age, gender, or athletic background. It develops both cardiovascular fitness and overall strength and is a low-impact, non-contact sport. NPBRC's minimum age for membership is 13; this is to ensure that kids are physically able to handle the equipment without injury or damage. There is no maximum age to join and no experience is necessary. Rowers are often known to compete well into their eighties and beyond!

Q: What are your Membership requirements?

A: Safety is our highest concern. First and foremost, you must certify that you are able to swim 100 meters, tread water for 3 minutes, and properly put on a life vest. If you are uncertain or incapable of doing so, we have life vests available for your use. Members pay an annual fee that grants access to the facility, use of club boats and equipment, and coaching (as available), as well as a few other benefits. Social Members do not row but keep abreast of the Club's activities and events and receive complimentary NPBRC items along with other bennies.

Q: Where do you row? and How's the water?

A: We row on Florida's scenic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The Intracoastal is much like any river, with the exception that instead of a "current" we have a gentle tidal change several times a day. That means after heavy rains we aren't dodging logs swept away by a raging river. Even better, the ICW never freezes or floods. Horseshoe crabs and starfish are common sights along our shore.The stretch of the ICW we currently row on is sheltered by a low ridgeline to the east that blocks most of the wind coming in from sea. The result: consistently flat, fast, and fun rowing conditions with some of the best scenery around.

Q: What about motorboats?

A: As stated above, safety is our highest concern--so we take every possible step to ensure we abide by safe-boating practices, can communicate in an emergency, and are properly supervised in all on-the-water activities. With that said, we're also not the only club in the world to share the water with motorboats. Many clubs are accustomed to, and operate safely in, boat traffic that exceeds the levels in our area. The ICW has many no-wake or slow-speed zones that keep the wake levels very reasonable. By planning practices when traffic is lightest, using common sense, remaining alert and interacting with respect and courtesy with passing pleasure boats, we are able to share the waterways amicably with little to no impact on our ability to train.

Q: Do you have a trial membership rate?

A: Yes. We offer a one-month trial rate of $50. The 30-day trial rate allows only accompanied access to our equipment. If you're new to the sport, this is very important for safety reasons. A link to our trial rate is now posted on our Membership page. If you're not sure what rowing is all about and want to make an informed decision before you join, we welcome folks to try one of our Learn to Row classes (click the tab to the left). Our aim is simple: to get folks on the water in what we hope is a positive experience. We don't care if you have never seen a boat before; We've all been there and years later we're still up at dawn messing around in extremely narrow motorless boats. Shoot us an e-mail or stop in. Worst case: you'll have to sign our waiver. Best case: you start a life-long love of a new and challenging sport, see the ICW in a whole new light, and meet some great new people.

Q: When is your next LTR class?

A: Please check our Learn to Row page for the most current information.

Q: Do you offer storage for privately owned shells?

A: Yes! Ask us about rental rates and availability.

Q: Do you ever row earlier than 6:30 am?

A: Heck yes! Any collegiate rower will tell you 6:30 is late compared to what they endured. When rowing in pre-dawn or post-sunset hours, boats must be equipped with light sets in accordance with Coast Guard regulation. Otherwise, dawn is typically the flattest, quietest water---your best bet to zone out and get in a killer workout. We have some early risers among our ranks so odds are you'll find another member up for a pre-work row.

Q: What can we do, after taking a LTR class, to stay involved and continue rowing?

A: After LTR, you have a sufficient understanding of the sport and equipment to begin teaming with other folks and rowing regularly. To help you do that, join as a full member. Then we can assemble "Novice" (adult beginner) boats comprised of folks with a similar experience level or athletic interest, match you up with a coach or experienced member to help you along, and get you rowing regularly. The options are wide open; you can get together with friends or fellow members to assemble your own 'teams' or groups or join one of our coached programs. We are fortunate to have many experienced members who are always available to help you progress from novice to advanced rowers.

See also