What should I wear in the boat?
During the first few practices (April, May) the water is cold, and the wind tends to make the temperature 3-5 degrees cooler on the water. A wicking inner layer to take moisture away from the skin (polypropylene), a middle thermal layer for warmth (fleece) and an outer waterproof/breathable layer (Gore-Tex) is the best strategy.

Do I need to bring my own paddle? top
No, we have a large supply of wood paddles, with lengths from 44" to 51". We also have lifejackets for all paddlers, coaches and steerers. However, many people opt to purchase their own equipment, so feel free to talk to any of the NDC staff or email us for more information.

How do I get to the Sunnyside practice site? top
We are located on the south side of Lake Shore Blvd. W. at Parkside Drive. Detailed directions are available on the page About Us -> Practice Site.

Do I need to warm up before starting to paddle? top
YES! Keeping yourself healthy and injury free is imperative for you to enjoy yourself. Plan on arriving 25 minutes or so before you paddle, allowing for time to change, warm up and a few extra minutes to chat and get organized before you load the boat. Running, jumping jacks, chin-ups, push-ups or yoga are encouraged-- anything to get the blood flowing to the muscles before you start your stretching and mobility exercises.

Are there change rooms/washrooms/lockers/showers available? top
Yes. The Sunnyside Pavilion has change rooms with $0.25 lockers, washroom and shower facilities. For safety reasons we encourage our paddlers to leave all valuables at home.

I can't swim... do the boats ever flip? top
With calm conditions and an experienced steerer, it is very unlikely to capsize or swamp. However, in poor weather conditions there is always a possibility a paddler may end up in the water. To ensure everyone's safety we avoid practicing in unfavourable conditions and require all paddlers to wear either the supplied, or their own lifejackets. As well, we have strict rules governing who can steer and where the boats can go.

What do I do if I see a boat in trouble? A paddler in distress? top
There are several things each boat can do to assist another crew. First, blow the whistle the supplied whistle THREE times to alert the lifeguards or other boats within earshot. If you hear three whistles, immediately relay the situation to the base/lifeguards. Stop your dragonboat as close as safely possible to the team in distress, to offer aid. Paddlers can raise their paddles blade-end straight up to signal distress.

Are there lifeguards? top
Yes. We have NLS certified lifeguards in motor boats patrolling the on water practice and beachfront area at all times. Our team is linked via VHF radios, each boat has a on board first-aid kit, and full safety procedures are in place. Accidents are prevented before they can happen.

Where are the dragonboats allowed to go during practice? top
Teams can typically paddle from Ontario Place to the top of the Humber river. There will be times when the weather will shorten the boundaries, which allows our lifeguards to concentrate on a smaller area to ensure the safety of our paddlers. Talk to the lifeguard at the dock for the day's boundaries.

Are there areas where are the dragonboats may not go? top
Coaches and steerers must be aware of our "No Stop Areas". These include all break-wall openings, the narrow passage just east of Sunnyside, and the docking slips at the Boulevard Club. Crews are not allowed outside the break-wall or up the Humber without approval from the lifeguard team.

How long are practices? top
NDC runs 55 minute practices. Start time will be 5 minutes past the hour, ending on the hour. This will have the double effect of less people on the docks and easier transitions from hour to hour.

My team does not have a steersperson, what do we do? top
The NDC supplies steerers at a rate of $40/hr + (H)GST. There are always paddlers wanting to learn to steer, so on a calm day a crew may be asked to help train a new steerer. We strongly discourage novice steerers from taking crews out during less than optimal weather conditions.

How much does this cost? top
For a full price list see our membership page or contact us in the office.

How do I book a practice? top
Booking is easy. It’s never too late in the season to book practices. Simply call or email us at the the office info@nationaldragonboat.com and we’ll add you to the schedule right away.

How do I pay for practices? top
The NDC has the ability to accept all major credit cards, cash and cheques.

I'm not on a team, how can I get involved? top
First: Ask around to your friends and family. You may be amazed how many people you know that are already on a team.

Second: Start your own team. It's not too hard to do and we're here to help new teams get up on their feet.

Third: Join our Individual membership program. Information is available on our membership page.

Lastly, simply hanging out at the Sunnyside practice area and relying on the kindness of strangers works most of the time. Best to arrive early and look for a team that has the fewest people.