Rowing in Cambridge: Learn to row in an eight-person boat

Rowing machines, then the River Cam, then a full hour afloat

A three-hour rowing class at City of Cambridge Rowing Club teaches you to row in a coxed eight boat: the same vessel used in the world-famous Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race. You start on Concept 2 rowing machines to learn timing and technique, then practice the stroke at the boathouse before heading out for a full hour on the River Cam. No experience required. Children welcome from age 13.

The experience

The River Cam is where Cambridge rowing happens, and this class puts you in the boat that matters. You'll spend the first half-hour on Concept 2 rowing machines at City of Cambridge Rowing Club, working through the timing and technique with a live guide before you ever touch an oar. That foundation matters: it's the difference between flailing and moving the boat forward together.

Once the guide is confident you can follow instructions, you'll head to the boathouse to collect the remaining oars, grab a quick photo, and launch into a full hour on the water. The eight-person boat moves differently than a single scull (it's about synchronization, about eight people pulling as one), and that's what you're learning to feel. You're rowing the same class of boat that appears in the film "The Boys in the Boat" and competes in the Boat Race itself.

The whole experience runs three hours and operates year-round using high-quality club facilities and equipment. Public transportation options are available near the boathouse, so getting there doesn't require a car.

What’s included

• Use of the eight-person boat (the same class as the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race).
• access to Concept 2 rowing machines for technique training.
• use of all club facilities.
• a live guide throughout the three hours.

Before you book

Days and timesSaturdayDeparts at 10:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (16 to 60 years) · Senior (61 to 75 years) · Youth (13 to 15 years) · Under 13: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Cambridge Rowing Experience

Is this one for you?Three hours is long enough to learn the stroke and feel what eight-person rowing actually is, but short enough to fit into a day of sightseeing or work in Cambridge. If you want a full immersion in the sport, this is it. If you're looking for a quick taste, the time commitment is real.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 15 years). Under 13: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the difference between rowing on a machine and rowing on the water?

The rowing machine teaches you the stroke mechanics and timing in a controlled setting. On the River Cam, you apply that technique with seven other rowers, learning how the boat responds when eight people pull together. The machine work comes first so you're ready for the real thing.

Do I need to have rowed before to join this class?

No experience is required. The guide starts with technique on the machines and only takes the boat out once everyone can follow instructions carefully. Children are welcome from age 13.

How much of the three hours do I actually spend rowing on the river?

You get a full hour on the River Cam after the half-hour on the rowing machines and the transition to the boathouse. The rest of the time covers the introduction, technique work, and the move from machines to boat.

What boat will I be rowing in?

You'll row in a coxed eight: the same class of boat used in the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race and featured in "The Boys in the Boat." It's an eight-person racing shell with a coxswain calling the strokes.

Is this class suitable if I have a back or spine condition?

Rowing is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries because the repetitive pulling motion puts strain on the lower back and spine. If you have concerns about your fitness for the activity, contact the club before booking.