Where are you located?
We have 3 docks on Vancouver Island:
In Victoria, on the Gorge Waterway. Teams meet at the basketball courts at the Vic West Community Centre for warm-up before heading down to our dock, accessible off Selkirk Avenue.
In Cumberland, at Comox Lake.
In Comox, at the Comox Marina
VI Paddling also operates two paddle erg gyms, one in Esquimalt and one in Merville.
Additionally, VI Paddling has an affiliate site in Campbell River, where our team River Spirit practices.
What equipment is required to start dragon boating?
All you need to give dragon boating a try is a paddle and life jacket, and we supply both! You will get wet, (it is a water sport after all!), so we recommend wearing dri-fit clothing, a hat, and appropriate footwear (light soled shoes, sandals, or water shoes).
How do I join a team?
You can read about our teams here and if you think one will be a good fit for you, reach out and come try 2 practices for free before signing up for the season!
When does the dragon boating season start?
Most recreational teams start their season in late March or early April, finishing up in September. High performance teams train year-round along with our Island Breaststrokers team.
How many people can fit in a boat?
VI Paddling uses a fleet of standard BuK dragon boats which fit 20 paddlers plus a drummer and a stern. In addition, we have Champion dragon boats for 10 paddlers plus a drum and stern.
What boats do you have available for booking?
When you become a member and pay an annual small boat membership fee in either Victoria or Cumberland, you have access to OC1s, surfskis, and our club OC6 (Victoria only), with some access to OC2s also available.
How do I sign out OC1s or surfskis?
The first step is to meet a VIP coach for a tour of the dock facility you hope to use for an orientation. Upon successful completion of boat assembly/disassembly and a huli-self-recovery, you will be sent links to our online booking system which allows you to reserve boats for use.
Can I rent boats for trips or off-site travel?
Unfortunately VI Paddling boats are not currently available for off-site use unless a coach is present, or if there is scheduled club activity off-site.
We want to start a dragon boat team. How do we get started?
Get in touch with us here and we will get you set up! And if you need a coach and/or stern, we can help with that to! We will work with you to create a program best suited to you.
Are you recruiting?
Yes, we are always recruiting for both our recreational and high-performance programs. Come try a practice for free and learn for yourself why dragon boating is one of the fastest growing team sports across the world!
Where can I find more info about your current class schedule and upcoming events?
All of our bookings are managed through Mindbody, and you can see a list of our current schedule and events here.
How can I learn more about the Gorging Dragons?
You can check us out here or on Facebook!
Do you offer boat or SUP storage?
Currently we do not have any private boat/paddle board storage available.
Have another question?
