The club actively supports the pursuits of Gig Rowing, Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding. The growth in these rowing activities has grown considerably in recent years, especially in the sheltered, safe waters of Langstone Harbour. Rowing has many benefits, including building personal fitness and exploring the local wildlife in the harbour. Improving technologies in kayak and SUP design are making the pursuit cheaper and more are accessible to all.

Rowing gigs are recognised as one of the first shore-based lifeboats that went to vessels in distress, with recorded rescues going back as far as the late 17th century. Over the years gig rowing has become a competitive sport, with clubs springing up all over the country. Tudor Sailing Club actively support our up and coming gig rowing section, whose focus is on gig rowing for pleasure.

Gig rowing is a relatively simple pursuit, offering members the opportunity to get out onto the water to have some fun and build confidence out on the water in a friendly, unpressured environment. It is also fantastic exercise!

Tudor Sailing Club purchased their rowing gig in April 2016 – the 15’ GRP Gig was built by Cygnus boats and was originally commissioned to be competitively raced. It has modern carbon fibre sweeps, which help provide the power to propel the vessel through the water. Although small for a rowing gig, the boat has fantastic sea handling characteristics and can be used in a variety of weather conditions. The gig can be skulled alone, or be used by up to 5 persons (with one acting as a cox).

The club has a handful of experienced cox’s who are happy to introduce members to gig rowing, and will show you how to safely launch and recover the boat and get the most out of your time on the water. If you would like to have a go at gig rowing, look out for the next gig rowing session in the calendar and contact our gig section coxes using the section email address rowing@tudorsailing.org.uk

Once you have completed a number of sessions and you are confident with the vessel, members will be able to take the gig out on their own, or in the company of others.

May 2016 - Gig Rowing proved very popular at the recent RYA Push the Boat Out / Tudor Sailing Club Open Day, with many prospective members taking to the water.

Introducing the Cygnus 15' Rowing Gig - CLICK HERE