Curious about dragon boating but not sure where to start? Experience Dragon Boat is the perfect introduction to this exhilarating sport—designed for individuals or small groups who want to get on the water without the commitment of joining a full team.
Whether you’re completely new to paddling or a returning paddler looking to rediscover the thrill, this program offers a fun, welcoming, and low-pressure environment where everyone can participate—no experience necessary. We take care of everything: paddles, life jackets, coaches, and most importantly, your teammates. You’ll be grouped with other enthusiastic participants to form a boat crew, creating an instant sense of connection and community on the water.
Guided by experienced coaches, each session includes both on-land instruction and on-water paddling, teaching you the basics of technique, timing, and teamwork. It’s a unique chance to learn, laugh, and challenge yourself in a supportive setting, all while enjoying the outdoors and the excitement of dragon boat racing.
Whether you’re looking for a new fitness outlet, a social activity, or a one-of-a-kind experience, Experience Dragon Boat is your gateway to the sport. Join us and discover why dragon boating is one of the fastest-growing team sports in North America. No team? No problem—we’ll help you find your crew.
This five-week program includes one coached practice each week, culminating in a race day at a Major League Dragon Boat Festival in your community. It’s the perfect way to learn the sport, build your skills, and experience the thrill of competition—no experience required! We provide all the gear, including paddles and lifejackets. Just come dressed to get splashed and ready to paddle!
What’s Included?
Cost: $155-$175 plus fees and taxes (if applicable) per person.
Short on time but still want to race? This streamlined option includes a single 1-hour coached practice followed by festival participation. Ideal for those who want to jump straight into the action with minimal commitment.
What’s Included?
Cost: $85-$95 plus fees and taxes (if applicable) per person.
Train & Race Junior:
The program starts the week of May 12th and culminates with the 37th Annual Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival on June 14th, 2025.
This program is being offered at our partner practice facility:
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of August 4th and culminates with the 30th Annual Tim Hortons GWN Dragon Boat Challenge on September 6th & 7th, 2025.
This program is being offered at our partner practice facilities:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 30th Annual Tim Hortons GWN Dragon Boat Challenge on September 6th & 7th, 2025.
Location: TBC
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the Inaugural New York International Dragon Boat Festival on July 19th, 2025.
Location: Rockland Lake State Park, Valley Cottage, NY (299 Rockland Lake Road, Parking Field #4, Valley Cottage, NY, 10989.
Practice Date & Time: Friday July 18th, 6PM-6:50PM
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of June 23rd and culminates with 12th Annual Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival on July 26th, 2025.
This program is being offered at our partner practice facility:
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 12th Annual Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival on July 26th, 2025.
Location: TBC
Practice Date & Time: TBC
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 7th Annual Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival on August 2nd 2025.
Location: Robious Landing Park (3800 James River Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113)
Practice Date & Time: Friday August 1st, 6PM-6:50PM
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of June 9th and culminates with the 26th Annual GWN Sport Regatta on July 12th, 2025.
This program is being offered at our partner practice facilities:
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 26th Annual GWN Sport Regatta on July 12th, 2025.
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of August 4th and culminates with the 18th Annual Mercer County Dragon Boat Festival on September 13th, 2025.
This program is being offered at our partner practice facility:
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 18th Annual Mercer County Dragon Boat Festival on September 13th, 2025.
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 2nd Annual Kansas City Dragon Boat Festival on September 27th, 2025.
Location: Shawnee Mission Park, Kansas City, KS
Practice Date & Time: Friday September 26, 6PM-6:50PM
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of September 9th and culminates at the 17th Annual Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival, held on Saturday October 4th, 2025.
Practices for this program is being offered at our partner practice facility:
Orlando Dragon Boat Club (Lake Fairview Park, 2200 Lee Road, Orlando, FL, 32810)
Practice Times: TBD
Practice Dates: TBD
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 18th Annual Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival, held on Saturday October 4th, 2025.
Location: TBD
Practice Date & Time: TBD
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of September 22nd and culminates at the 5th Annual Miami Dragon Boat Festival, held on Saturday October 25th, 2025.
Practices for this program is being offered at our partner practice facility:
Miami Rowing Club, 3601 Rickenbacher Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149)
Practice Times: TBD
Practice Dates: TBD
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 5th Annual Miami Dragon Boat Festival, held on Saturday October 25th, 2025.
Location: Miami Rowing Club (3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL, 33149)
Practice Date & Time: TBD
Train & Race:
The program starts the week of March 18th and culminates with the 6th Annual Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festivalon Sunday April 21st 2024.
This program is being offered at partner practice facility:
Nathan Benderson Park (5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota)
Practice Times: 6pm-7pm
Practice Dates (4 weeks): March 25, April 1, 8, and 15.
Fee: $145 plus applicable fees and taxes.
Race Ready:
The program includes one practice session and entry into the 6th Annual Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festivalon Sunday April 21st 2024.
Location: Nathan Benderson Park (5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota)
Practice Date & Time: TBC
Fee: $85 plus applicable fees and taxes.
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GWN and MLDB updates!
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