Dragon Boating
Paddle Through It
Paddle with Survivor SAKE, Team Survivor Northwest’s dragon boating team. Join us for a fun, empowering workout on beautiful Lake Washington—build strength, boost cardiovascular fitness, and connect with an inspiring community of women.
Dragon boating is a true team sport:
- A full boat includes 20 paddlers, a tiller, and a caller
- Everyone paddles together in synchronized rhythm
- Beginners can rest as needed and still stay with the group
- Workouts build strength, cardio fitness, coordination, and confidence
Whether you’re brand new to exercise or already active, dragon boating is appropriate for all fitness levels. No experience is needed. Beginners are welcome.
Try It Out
New paddlers can attend up to three trial practices before committing to the team. Onboarding sessions are typically held once a month. Your first visit includes basic instruction on land before getting on the boat.
Racing
Racing is an optional, fun part of the program—everyone can join, no matter your speed or experience.
- Local races are usually all-day Saturday events in the Puget Sound area.
- Each season we often attend one overnight festival within driving distance.
- Participants should plan to attend most practices to build the necessary technique and endurance.
Interested? Next Steps
- Become a Team Survivor Northwest member. Membership is free!
- On the program calendar look for “Join Dragon Boat emails” which is listed on every Saturday morning on the calendar.
- After signing up, the Team Survivor captains will reach out to you to schedule an onboarding session.
- Attend a free onboarding session.
- Attend two additional free practices.
- To continue the program after your trial period, you’ll join the Seattle SAKE Paddling Club with a $200 annual membership fee. Financial assistance is available. Team Survivor offers scholarships for program fees—please apply here.
- Follow safety instructions and paddling techniques
- Participate in two-hour practices with planned rest breaks
- Work cooperatively as part of a team
- Swim or tread water for up to 15 minutes while wearing a PFD (personal flotation device—like a lifejacket)
- Hear and respond to commands from a distance
- Use moderate upper- and lower-body strength
- Remain calm in unexpected situations
- On the boat: seating is two paddlers per bench, light contact may occur, and entry/exit involves forearm-to-forearm support for balance
- Full instruction and support provided during the annual capsize drill—your safety is our top priority
- Arrive early; text captains if running late
- Club provides paddles & PFDs
- Moisture-wicking clothes & layers for changing weather
- Closed-toe shoes with rubber soles
- Water bottle, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Light rain jacket or pants (as needed)
- Gloves (optional)
- Masks requested at times
- Fragrance-free products only for members’ sensitivities
Sign Up For Dragon Boating
Visit our program calendar and look for "Join Dragon Boat Emails" to try out this program.
New to Team Survivor?
Membership is free.