Rowing Ireland has published the findings of its first all-island Recreational Rowing Club Survey, providing valuable insight into the current state of recreational rowing and the opportunities to grow participation across Ireland.
The survey confirms that recreational rowing is becoming an increasingly important part of the rowing landscape. It provides opportunities for lifelong participation, supports physical and mental wellbeing, strengthens community connections and creates welcoming pathways into the sport for adults of all ages and backgrounds.
Responses from clubs across the island demonstrate strong enthusiasm for the continued development of recreational rowing. Increasing adult participation, improving member retention, expanding touring opportunities and growing women’s participation were identified as key priorities for the coming years.
The findings also highlight the important role recreational rowing can play in supporting club sustainability. Social rowing, adult learn-to-row programmes, touring opportunities and community-focused activities are helping clubs attract new members, retain participants and create more inclusive club environments.
While the appetite for growth is clear, clubs identified several common challenges, including coaching capacity, access to suitable equipment, safety cover and facility limitations. The survey also found that many clubs are developing recreational rowing organically, without formal plans, highlighting the need for additional support, guidance and opportunities to share knowledge.
Recreational Rowing Networking Event
As a practical next step following the survey, Rowing Ireland’s Recreational Rowing Committee is inviting clubs to a Recreational Rowing Networking Event, hosted by Neptune Rowing Club.
The event will bring together recreational rowers and club representatives from across Ireland for an afternoon of conversation, shared learning, food and rowing on the River Liffey.
Date: Saturday, 22 August 2026
Time: 12.30pm–5.30pm
Venue: Neptune Rowing Club, Islandbridge, Dublin 8
The afternoon will include:
- Tea, coffee and registration from 12.30pm
- Short talks on the survey findings, future plans and club experiences
- Networking and a question-and-answer session
- A BBQ with beef, chicken, fish and vegetarian options
- An opportunity for visiting crews to row on the Liffey, with coxed quads available
Clubs are initially invited to nominate two delegates, with additional attendees accommodated where possible.
Please RSVP by 8 August 2026 by emailing recreationalrowing@rowingireland.ie. Include the names of your delegates, details of any additional attendees and each person’s BBQ meal choice.
Parking at Neptune Rowing Club is very limited. Additional parking is available at Garda Boat Club, while the Phoenix Park and Memorial Gardens Car Park are both within walking distance. Heuston Station and the Heuston Luas stop are approximately a 15-minute walk from the club.
This event forms part of the Recreational Rowing Committee’s ongoing work to develop frameworks, resources, events and networking opportunities that will help clubs expand recreational participation sustainably and inclusively.
The published survey report includes key findings, themes emerging from club feedback and practical next steps for clubs interested in strengthening their recreational rowing offer.
Rowing Ireland would like to thank every club that contributed to the survey and helped shape the future direction of recreational rowing across Ireland.
Download the full Recreational Rowing Club Survey Report below to explore the findings and recommendations.
