Frequently Asked Questions

General

1. Is Navesink River Rowing a private club?
   Yes, Navesink River Rowing is a private 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
2. Where is the club located?
   We are at the northern end of Maple Avenue in Red Bank, New Jersey. You can use 1 Maple Avenue for GPS navigation.
3. Does the club have its own boats?
   A sculling-only club, Navesink River Rowing has singles, doubles, and quads for its members’ use.
4. Do I need my own boat or oars?
   No. The club provides boats, oars, and other equipment. Private boat storage may be available for members who own their own shells.
5. Do you rent boats?
   We do not rent boats. Local companies such as Red Bank Marina offer watercraft rentals. 
6. What age groups can join Navesink River Rowing?
   We welcome people 18 years old and older as regular members.  High school students can participate in our youth program.
7. How do I join the club?
   You can join by completing our membership application form at regattacentral.com. Full adult membership requires verifiable experience in single sculling boats. No prior experience is necessary for our learn-to-row sessions, and those who complete adult beginner lessons are eligible to join Navesink River Rowing at a reduced rate.
8. Can I try rowing before paying for a membership or lessons?
   Yes. We offer brief introductory sessions to allow you to determine whether rowing is a good fit. To schedule one, email nrrinfo30@gmail.com.
9. How much does it cost to join the club?
   Membership fees are set by the Board annually and are posted at regattacentral.com. Equipment use is included in the membership fee.
10. Do I need prior rowing experience to join?
    To register for a seasonal membership, you must have prior rowing experience in sculling boats. If you don’t have this, we offer “Learn to Row” classes for beginners.
11. Does the club teach people how to row?
    Navesink River Rowing offers “learn to row” classes. These provide a structured eight-hour beginner program that takes place over four days and teaches rowing technique, boat handling, and water safety. After completion, participants are eligible to join the club.
12. Do you compete in regattas?
    Yes. Competitive squads–youth and adults– race locally, regionally, and sometimes nationally.
13. Can non-rowers get involved?
    Yes. Navesink River Rowing offers volunteer opportunities for those who want to be part of the community without rowing. Email nrrinfo30@gmail.com or talk with our parent liaison for more information.
14. What should I wear to row?
    Close-fitting athletic clothing (like running or cycling gear) is best to avoid fabric catching on the equipment. Avoid baggy shorts or tops. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor sessions. We recommend that rowers wear high-visibility colors when out on the water.
15. When do members row?
    Most sessions occur early morning, evenings, or weekends, depending on the configuration of the boats and the goals of the rowers. Competitive rowers may train 4–6 times per week, while recreational rowers often go out on the water 1–3 times weekly.
16. Is rowing safe?
    Yes. Rowing is a non-contact sport; and it is safe as long as members follow safety rules and listen to coaches. All rowers, youth and adult, must pass a swim test and complete a waiver before going out in club boats.
17.  What if the weather is bad?
    If water conditions are unsafe, youth practices may move indoors to rowing machines (ergs), strength training, or be rescheduled. Adult lessons will be rescheduled. Members will not go out on the river.