We’ve gathered the most common questions from paddlers, teams, and supporters to help you quickly find the answers you need. Whether you’re preparing for your first dragon boat race, looking for details on equipment and safety, or curious about how the event runs, this is the place to start.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help – just reach out to us directly.

What is dragon boat racing?


Dragon boat racing is a fun and energetic watersport where teams paddle together in long, colourful boats decorated with dragon heads and tails. It’s a fantastic team-building activity that combines teamwork, rhythm, and friendly competition.

 

How many people are in a dragon boat crew?


A standard dragon boat crew usually consists of between 10 and 16 paddlers, plus a drummer at the front and a helm (steerer) at the back. For larger boats, up to 20 paddlers may take part.

 

Do I need prior experience to take part?


No experience is required! Most of our participants are complete beginners, and we provide full safety briefings, coaching, and guidance on the day.

 

What equipment is provided and what should I bring?


We provide the boats, paddles, buoyancy aids, and safety cover. You just need to bring comfortable sportswear (that you don’t mind getting splashed), a change of clothes, and footwear you’re happy to get wet.

 

Is dragon boat racing safe for beginners?


Yes – safety is our top priority. All participants wear buoyancy aids, and our trained helms and safety crews are on hand throughout the event to ensure everything runs smoothly.

 

How long does a typical race last?

International standard sprint distance is 200m, and a race usually lasts between one and two minutes. All day events are usually structured so each team races at least three times in the heats, finals and sometimes semi-finals depending on the format of the event.

 

Can companies, charities, or community groups enter teams?


Absolutely! Dragon boat racing is ideal for corporate team building, fundraising events, and community festivals. Many of our events are tailored to groups who want to combine fun, fitness, and friendly rivalry.

 

Is training available before the event?


Yes – we give a full on and off-the-water briefing sessions before racing begins. This includes paddling techniques, commands from the drummer, and how to work together as a team.

 

What happens if the weather is bad on race day?

Dragon boat racing is a water sport, so we race in most weather conditions, rain or shine! Events will only be postponed or cancelled if conditions are unsafe (e.g., high winds or thunderstorms).

 

I have race members who might arrive late, is it possible for us to race later on?

If your team member is late arriving on the day, it may mean you having to race without them.

 

Once registration closes, how do late arrivals register?

Please ask them to come to Event Control and speak to one of the staff there. If your team member is late arriving on the day, it may mean you having to race without them.

 
Safety Briefings: What happens if I miss my team’s briefing?

All safety briefing are the same so simply attend another team’s briefing to get your wristband. Please be aware that if you arrive after the end of Round 1, it will not be possible to get a safety briefing or participate in the event.

 

Safety Briefings: What happens if there are no more safety briefings?

If you arrive after all safety briefing have been completed (ie. after the end of round 1), it will not be possible to get a safety briefing or participate in the event.

 
What happens if I lose my wristband?

Wristbands do not fall off, they can only be removed by force. Under no circumstances can wristbands be removed and given to another person. If a wristband is on too tight, please report to Event Control with your wrist band still on so we can replace it with a similar band. Please be advised that removing a wrist band yourself may result in you being excluded from further participation in the dragon boating races.

 

Is there a cost for spectators to come?

No. There is no cost for spectators to come and watch.

 

Will we be able to buy food and drink at the dragon boat race event?

Food and drink will be available to purchase on the day. Please remember that no glass is permitted in the event area.