Frequently Asked Questions

Why Rowing?

Why not?? In all seriousness, rowing is one of the fastest-growing sports in the US and worldwide. Women’s rowing has more NCAA scholarships than any other women’s sport and is second only to men’s football. It is the ultimate team sport, provides lifelong fitness and skill, and is concussion-free!

Additionally, rowing has the power to heal. Rowing has been proven to stop and reduce the effects of trauma on the brain. According to the Grady Trauma Project, people in low-income communities experience rates of PTSD twice that of combat veterans.. Dr. Bruce Perry has demonstrated that rhythmic movement, such as rowing, can help ease tension and heal the brain from trauma. Rowing has the power to change lives.

What other sports are there?

Our fleet of kayaks can accommodate 30 people at a time and we can accommodate 10 people on stand-up paddleboards! These programs will be tailored to youth and adult groups and rentals will be available to all. Please inquire for further details.

In addition, we can host birthday parties (weather dependent)!

How do I apply for a scholarship?

Financial constraints are very real. We have committed to eliminating these constraints as a barrier to access. Your personal financial situation will never prevent you from participating in our programming. Please email us at info@northshoremaritimecenter.org and we will get you on the water.

What type of boats do you have?

We have rowing boats (shells) of all sizes! We have racing singles for one person, we have fours (four rowers plus a coxswain), eights (eight rowers plus a coxswain), a double (two rowers), and even a 12-person barge, the perfect learn-to-row tool! One day we hope to develop a strong relationship with a boat manufacturer, but until then, we row a varied fleet.

As mentioned above, we also have our fleet of single and double/tandem kayaks and paddleboards!

Where do you row?

We are grateful that the City of Lynn has allowed us the opportunity to operate on Lynn’s own Sluice Pond. It is the perfect environment to learn and train. The address for our location is 112 Kernwood Drive in Lynn (at the public boat ramp).

Do I need to know how to swim?

No! This is one of the common misconceptions about rowing. We do follow the USRowing swim test (100-yard swim and 5 minutes of treading water), but if you cannot swim, there are two great options. First, we can help arrange swim lessons at the YMCA. Second, you can row immediately while wearing a life jacket. Safety is the most important part of what we do, but we will get you on the water no matter what.

How tall is William Goldenheim?

Not as tall as his older brother!

Do I need to be tall?

No! You are the perfect size for our sport and we look forward to your participation.

Will I get any cool gear?

Yes! You will get a North Shore Maritime Center T-shirt when you sign up for a class or camp. Other NSMC gear is available for purchase. We are walking the walk with our mission to raise up our community. As such, our gear is primarily purchased through Exclusive Tees (https://exclusivetees.org/), a MA-based organization that employs at-risk youth to teach them workplace skills. We are proud and honored to partner with such a great organization.

Do I need any special gear or equipment?

No. Athletic attire is perfect and we avoid really baggy clothing, but nothing special is required.

What do I do if I have other questions?

Sorry we didn’t anticipate better, but please email us at info@northshoremaritimecenter.org and we’ll get right back to you.