Coastal Rowing

Class Captain: Kirsten Bithell - rowing@hisc.co.uk

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Hayling Island Sailing Club is delighted to introduce an exciting new opportunity for members and newcomers to experience the thrill of coastal rowing in a traditional Celtic Longboat.

Combining teamwork, fitness, adventure, and a connection to the sea, coastal rowing is one of the fastest-growing watersports in the UK. Now, HISC members will have the chance to take to the water in a Celtic Longboat and enjoy Chichester Harbour and the surrounding coastline from a completely new perspective.

What is Coastal Rowing?

Unlike river rowing, coastal rowing takes place on open water, embracing the natural conditions of the sea. Crews work together to power the boat through waves, tides, and changing conditions, creating an exhilarating and rewarding experience.

The Celtic Longboat is a robust 6-person rowing boat, traditionally crewed by four rowers, a bow person, and a coxswain. Success depends on teamwork, communication, and rhythm, making it a highly social activity that is as enjoyable as it is challenging.

Why Try Coastal Rowing?

Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, learn a new skill, or simply spend more time on the water, coastal rowing offers something for everyone.

Benefits include:

• A full-body workout suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities
• The opportunity to explore our beautiful local waters
• A welcoming and supportive team environment
• Improved fitness, strength, and endurance
• The excitement of rowing in real coastal conditions
• A new way to enjoy life at Hayling Island Sailing Club

No Experience Necessary

You don't need any previous rowing experience to get involved. Training and guidance will be provided, and new participants will quickly learn the basics of rowing technique, boat handling, and crew coordination.

Whether you are an experienced sailor looking for a different challenge or someone completely new to watersports, coastal rowing is a fantastic way to get active and become part of a crew.

Training Available  

Until our boat arrives, we will be offering external training with Mike from the Coastal Rowing Academy. The current plan is to run two 4-week session blocks, one on a Tuesday Evening and one on a Wednesday Evening at Northney Marina. Once the first block of weekly sessions has finished, there will then be an opportunity for a new group of people to commence training. 

The first blocks will start on 9/10 June at 6.15pm on each day - if you would like to get involved in this training, please sign up via EliteLive. Please note that by registering for a training block, participants are expected to attend all four weeks of the programme. 

Courses will be a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 5. 

Once our boat arrives, we will be running in-house training. 

Join the Crew

The launch of coastal rowing marks an exciting new chapter for Hayling Island Sailing Club, expanding the range of activities available to members and strengthening our connection with the sea.

If you've ever wanted to experience the camaraderie of a rowing crew, the challenge of coastal waters, and the satisfaction of moving a boat through the water using nothing but teamwork and determination, now is the perfect time to get involved.

Come and discover coastal rowing at HISC and be part of something new from the very beginning.