No experience is necessary to join the Club. We welcome paddlers of all ages and all skill and fitness levels. When paddling, you get a great aerobic workout that is easy on your joints. You will discover that the added encouragement you receive will make fitness easier to achieve.

Whether your interest is recreational or competitive, our coaches will train you in safety, timing, and technique until you paddle in perfect unison with your teammates.

The Annapolis Dragon Boat Club will meet your needs for fun, fitness, health, and friendship — and competition if desired.

“Within the gunnels of the blue, pink, and red boats, we leave life’s storms at the dock. We heal through friendships with fellow paddlers. We find the courage to navigate challenges. Above all, we find joy.”
— Club member and breast cancer survivor

Paddle as a guest

If you want to learn more about us and dragon boating, we recommend paddling as a guest before becoming a member.

You can paddle up to two times as our guest, free of charge. Everyone is welcome — cancer patients, cancer survivors, and supporters.

Please email us at to sign up for an upcoming soft paddle. We typically hold soft paddles from April to September on the fourth Saturday of each month.

Important note: You must complete the online liability release and waiver agreement form before participating in any activities.

Become a member

Are you ready to join us? It’s easy!

We offer three types of membership. All members must be over age 18.

Warrior members ($150) are breast cancer patients or survivors. Warriors are entitled to full Club rights and privileges.

Supporter members ($150) are supporters of breast cancer warriors. Supporters are entitled to the same full Club rights and privileges as warriors.

Pillar members ($50) are breast cancer patients, survivors, or supporters. Pillars are entitled to the same full Club rights as warriors and supporters but can only paddle at the monthly soft paddles.

Team members raising their hands under a billboard of Cal Ripken Jr. raising his hand" width="419" height="614" /> Team members raising their hands under a billboard of Cal Ripken Jr. raising his hand
Team members raising their hands under an image of Cal Ripken Jr. raising his hand

Financial assistance is available. All members who have been diagnosed with cancer are eligible to receive financial assistance through the Brigitte Wallace McKee Bosom Buddies Grant Fund. This fund pays tribute to Brigitte Lynn Wallace McKee (1976 -2020), who fought metastatic breast cancer with grace and bravery and inspired all who had the good fortune to know her.

Please email  if you need help with your dues or other expenses. You don’t need to provide any medical or financial documentation. All requests are confidential.

To become a member, you must:

  1. Complete the membership application form.
  2. Complete the liability release and waiver agreement form.
  3. Pay the 2024 annual membership dues.

If you prefer to pay by check, you may bring it to a practice or mail one to PO Box 6596, Annapolis, MD, 21401.

Join the operations team

Not everyone in the Club paddles. Several folks join the operations team to tend to the boats, organize gear, and prepare paddlers for practices and races.

Become a coach

Paddlers who want to get more involved with dragon boating can join our roster of coaches. The Club can sponsor coaches to attend clinics and hone their skills.

Support us

The Club relies on the support of our donors and sponsors.

We are proud to play such a prominent role on behalf of breast cancer survivors. We need your help to continue our efforts.

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