Dragon Boating - General

What is Dragon Boat racing?

Dragon Boat racing is a water sport where a team of approximately twenty paddlers are paired in a long boat to race against other teams. It is a sport that requires concerted teamwork, as the boat will only move smoothly if all paddlers are paddling together and not individually.

Is Dragon Boat racing dangerous?

Dragon Boat racing is safe as long as safety instructions are followed strictly. As with any water sport, there is an inherent danger and it is strongly recommended that the paddler is able to swim a certain distance. Life vests are available if you are not a confident swimmer - which effectively makes the sport accessible to anyone with a sense of adventure.

Is Dragon Boat racing similar to rowing?

No, Dragon Boat racing is technically different from rowing. Dragon Boating is more correctly known as a paddling sport, similar to canoeing or kayaking. Unlike other flat water sports, you only paddle on either the left or the right side of the boat at one time. Obviously paddling with 20 other people in the boat also lends Dragon Boat racing a very different dynamic to other water sports.

How many people are there in a Dragon Boat crew?

In standard competitions in New South Wales, there can be 18 to 22 people in the boat - ten pairs of paddlers sitting side by side, a steerer (sweep) at the rear, and a coxswain (drummer) at the front of the boat.