The paddle stroke that moves a dragon boat is beneficial to the alleviation of lymphedema, a symptom related to breast cancer surgery. That’s one reason why breast cancer survivors have rallied to the sport of dragon boating. Most of us paddle on both sides of the boat, but you can ask to paddle on only the right or left.
It’s not just the boat that unites us — it’s also the bonding and friendships we form in this Club. Together, we create strength and camaraderie that transforms us from survivors into warriors.
Our home port for practices and paddles is Pier 4 Marina. It is in the heart of the beautiful Annapolis Harbor.
Pier 4 Marina
301 Fourth Street
Annapolis, MD 21403
Schedule
We paddle when the combined temperature of the air and water is 100 or more degrees. We’re typically out on the water four days each week during the outdoor season — on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Each day, we have a different focus. The descriptions below provide a general overview. Practices are about 1 1/2 hours long, including a group stretch before and after we paddle.
Browse our calendar of events for more details.
Tuesday technique practices
6:00 p.m. New paddlers learn the basics, and experienced paddlers advance their skills. Coaches emphasize the technique essential for paddling effectively and preventing injury.
Wednesday morning paddles
9:00 a.m. Day-time paddles for those of us able to spend some extra time on the water. This is not a coached paddle, so it isn’t appropriate for new paddlers.
View all upcoming Wednesday morning paddles >
Thursday race practices
6:00 p.m. Get your heart pumping on Thursdays. These practices provide an aerobic workout as we practice our racing and international festival strategies. We also work on endurance. New paddlers can join us on Thursdays after attending at least three Tuesday or Saturday practices. We encourage you to talk with a coach about what to expect at Thursday practices.
Saturday open practices
8:30 a.m. Start your weekend out on the water! These coached practices are open to all.
View all upcoming Saturday open practices >
Saturday soft paddles
9:30 a.m. We take a monthly soft paddle after practice on Saturday mornings. Experienced paddlers handle the boat, so anyone recovering from treatment can join us. You can paddle (or not) as you wish. Come to try dragon boating … and enjoy the nourishment of being on the water with friends.
We typically hold soft paddles for guests from April to September on the fourth Saturday of each month.
Email to sign up for an upcoming soft paddle. If you enjoy paddling with us, then you can join the Club. We hope you will!
View all upcoming Saturday soft paddles >
Sign up to attend practices and paddles
Members must use Team Snap to sign up for practices.
What to wear and bring
We provide personal flotation devices, paddles, and seat pads. However, you may bring your own if you prefer.
Some members order a custom paddle with our Annapolis Dragon Boat Club logo.
You will get wet from splashes. We recommend wearing:
- A t-shirt or fitness top during warmer months and an additional quick-dry layer during cooler months
- Comfortable, quick-dry shorts or pants
- Water shoes, Crocs, or flip-flops
We also recommend bringing:
- A reusable plastic water bottle
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- A change of clothes in case you get wet