DoryWoman Rowing FAQS
DWR offers a one-of-a-kind experience rowing a traditional-style wooden dory in a gorgeous coastal setting. You'll have access to a whole other world in beautiful Belfast Bay, learn a new skill, observe the abundant wildlife that live here, discover the history of Belfast's working waterfront and have a unique on the water adventure!
Rows happen in Sorciere, a 19'5" Swampscott dory, a traditional-style wooden boat, originally designed as a fishing vessel for North Atlantic waters, dating back to the mid-1800's.
Sorciere comfortably seats up to four people, including your Maine Guide, Nicolle, the DoryWoman herself! DWR's rowing services are available for individuals and private groups of up to three people. Pricing is per person in the boat.
DWR offers four types of rows: lessons, guided tours, workout and speciality rows. The difference? Lessons provide instruction on how to row a fixed seat, two-oared traditional-style boat in open water. Guided tours offer a scenic on-the-water experience of Belfast Bay and the Passagassawakeag River, with the option to try rowing. Workout rows are for rowers with intermediate to advanced skills and experience. DWR offers a Learn to Row 4-Pack plan that provides good skills-building for workout rows, as well as the Hale & Hardy 4-Pack plan. Both offer a discount on purchasing multiple rows. Speciality rows happen throughout the year and are fun outings to mark various holidays and celestial events. The Full Moon Row, the notorious Witches Row and the Solstice Row are examples of these types of rows.
Rows are offered throughout the week, mainly in the mornings, with some late afternoons and evening sessions, depending on the season.
Children ages 10 and up are welcome as passengers on most rows. Ages 12 and up may participate in a rowing lesson. Parent supervision for kids under 14.
Dogs may also be able to join a row with human supervision!
DWR may be able to customize a row for you or your group. Please inquire! Examples: engagements, team-building, maritime history for student groups.
DWR prioritizes safety. All rows begin with a safety talk. Life jackets/PFDs are required in the boat for all passengers. In the colder months, these must be worn on the dock and in the boat.
Rows are weather dependent. DWR will go out in a variety of conditions including light to moderate breezes, some ocean swell and chop, light rain, fog and snow.
In the event DWR cancels a row due to the weather, every effort will be made to reschedule the session. If this is not possible, a full refund will be issued.
Client Cancellation Policy: rows cancelled 48 hours in advance will receive a full refund; 24 hours in advance, half the fee will be refunded. Less than 24 hours, day of cancellations or "no-shows" will not be eligible for a refund. A row cancelled by a client may be rescheduled one time. A cancellation after the row has been rescheduled will not be eligible for a refund.
All participants must review and sign DWR's client liability waiver and photo release prior to your row. You will receive links to this form when you book a session.
What to wear and bring? DWR recommends wearing comfortable, anti-wicking layers (wool, silk, synthetic fabrics) and footwear appropriate for the temperature and weather conditions. When cool temps or precipitation are forecasted, bringing a light jacket or rain gear is advised. In the colder months, wear a wind-resistant jacket that provides insulation, as well as a hat, gloves and boots that will keep you warm and dry. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and sunscreen for daytime rows. Feel free to also bring a camera or phone to take photos or binoculars! Bring a headlamp or small flashlight for nighttime rows.
Book your Row here or click on "Book Your Row" on the site menu above.
Questions? Please reach out to Nicolle at dorywomanrowing@gmail.com
or call/text: 207-323-3932
Looking forward to rowing with you!
Please watch the DWR 2021 Wrap-up Video below or visit the Media page for more stories!