Rowing can be done in many ways: on your own or in a crew, at recreational or competition level, on the Amstel or on any other rowing waters in the Netherlands, for example during a nice rowing tour.
But you'll have to learn it first!
If you already have rowing experience, we will assess your rowing level and then determine whether you would still need instruction (C1 or skiff). If you are a starter, you will be assigned to a beginner's course in a C1 boat (a wooden single boat) or in a C4 boat (a four-person boat with a coxswain). During the C4 rowing course you will also get steering instruction. As soon as your rowing is at the required level in terms of safety and rowing technique, you can take part in one of our rowing exams.
Once you have passed your first rowing exam, you may want to join a team. You can either form your own crew or we will pair you up with rowers of a similar rowing level. You can also take part in our weekly Drop-in rowing sessions to row in alternating teams, supported by a coach.
This regional rowing competition between several Amsterdam rowing clubs is a good way to have your first competitive rowing experience. These races – five every summer – are a lot of fun and are concluded with an exciting finale on the Bosbaan.
If you prefer recreational rowing, numerous tours and rowing marathons are organised across the country, such as the Elfsteden Roeimarathon in Friesland. In the surroundings of Amsterdam, the Ronde Hoep Tocht and Shortest Night Tour are nice options.
For rowers with more experience and ambition, there are all kinds of races you can enter. These require a bit more effort, technique and preparation. Examples nearby are the well-known spring classics on the Amstel (Heineken Roeivierkamp and Head of the River) and the Spaarne Lenterace and Tromp Boat Races.
