rowing • kayaking • paddle boards

FAQs : General

 

Can I pay with a Credit Card?

  • We accept cash and checks. Credits cards are not accepted.

 Do you have changing facilities?

  •  Yes, we offer a large, clean portable restroom for changing.

 Do you have lockers?

  •  No, we do not have lockers; we suggest keeping all valuables at home or locked in the trunk of your car. We can hold your keys at the rental hut. Small dry bags are available for rent to keep cameras, keys and cell phones dry and safe while on the water. 

FAQs : Rentals

 

Are kayaks safe? Do I need to have experience?

  • Our kayaks are very stable boats and are great for a wide range of ages. The boats are designed for inexperienced kayakers and are virtually “untippable.”

 Do you have canoes?

  •  We have one canoe available for rent.

Do I need to be in shape to rent a kayak or a paddle boat?

  •  Kayaking and paddle boating do require physical work, but participants do not have to regularly exercise to enjoy their experience. Renters of all sizes and ages regularly experience Lady Bird Lake in our boats.

 Do I need to bring anything with me to rent a boat?

  • We provide paddles and life preservers for each renter. We suggest you bring water, sunscreen and cash or a check for payment (no credit cards) and a driver’s license to use as a rental deposit.

Do you rent paddle boards?

  •  Yes, we rent paddle boards to those 13 years of age and older, with no membership or experience required. Paddlers between the ages of 13-16 MUST have a parent present on the water in order to paddle board.

Will I fall off of my paddle board?

  •  You might, but most paddle boarders do not. As we like to say, don’t expect to fall in, but be prepared to fall in (leave behind anything you don’t want to get wet). In the case that you do fall off your board, do not linger in the water. It is very easy to get back on the SUP boards from the water.

 Do you offer paddle board memberships?

  • No, not at this time.

 Do I need a reservation?

  •  All rentals are on a first come, first serve basis. We do not accept reservations. Click here for group rentals.

 Do you have storage for kayaks?

  •  No, unfortunately we do not have space available right now. However, we are keeping a list of interested boat-owners, just in case we expand.

 Do you sell drinks?

  •  Yes, we sell cold bottled water for $1, and Gatorade for $2.

 FAQs : Rowing

 

 I have no rowing experience. Is that okay?

  • Our beginner courses and lessons are great for people with zero rowing experience. They are also great for those with only sweep rowing experience or those who have not rowed in some time.

I have sweep rowing experience. Do I have to take lessons?

  •  Typically, rowers with no sculling experience will need to take one of our beginner courses or lesson packages.

 I used to row. How can I get back into it?

  • Every situation is different, so you will need to talk with us first to find out if you need a refresher course before rowing again. Feel free to contact Coach Nadia or Coach Ron.

 What do I wear?

  •  Wear something comfortable and close fitting – most anything you would wear to the gym or for a run. Stay away from baggy t-shirts and shorts.

 Do I need special shoes?

  • No. Wear tennis/running shoes to your first lesson; these are more comfortable on the rowing machines and dock trainer. After that, just wear whatever. The boats have built-in shoes or Velcro® foot stretchers. Bring socks for comfort.

What if I flip?

  •  Most new rowers do not flip. If you do, stay with your boat. Your coach is on the water with you and will show you how to get back in the boat.

What happens if it rains?

  •  We can row in light rain, but not lightning, thunder or high wind. If your beginner course lesson is rained out, we’ll add a lesson onto the end of the course.

Do I have to have a membership to row?

  • While most of our rowers do have memberships, we also offer a 10-row card for $150, which allows you to row our recreational singles for $15 an hour and is good for one year. This is a popular option with those who live outside of Austin.

 Do I need to be in shape to row? I am not an athletic person.

  • Rowing is a great sport for many people since it is a low-impact activity. It even works well for those injured in other sports. In the beginning, rowing can be compared aerobically to a brisk walk. If you are concerned about your fitness, we would be happy to discuss it with you.

Do you offer storage for rowing sculls?

  •  No, unfortunately we do not have space available right now. However, we are keeping a list of interested boat-owners, just in case we expand.

 Do you have sweep rowing?

  •  No, we concentrate on sculling (rowing with two oars per person). We have single, double and quad (four-person) sculling boats. We like sculling because of its symmetry; it’s better for your shoulders, back, hips and knees.

 Where can I find out more about rowing?

Check out these web sites:

Who are your suppliers?

We have quite a few. Here are links to many of them:

 


FAQs