The relationship between Bermudians and the sea has shaped our cultural identity from the earliest days of settlement until the present day. Manpowered pilot gigs were used well into the 1900s to put local pilots aboard incoming vessels to bring them safely through Bermuda’s treacherous reefs and channels.
This traditional sport is gaining popularity in Bermuda thanks to the efforts of the Bermuda Pilot Gig Club (BPGC). Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rower, pilot gig rowing is a great way to stay fit and connect with the local community. In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of getting started with pilot gig rowing in Bermuda.
What is pilot gig rowing?
Pilot gig rowing involves teams of six [historically eight] rowers in a long, narrow boat called a gig. The sport is based on the traditional boats used to transport pilots to incoming vessels to bring them safely ashore. Today, pilot gig rowing is enjoyed for recreation in many coastal communities in the UK, Europe and the US, as well as Bermuda.
Getting Started
To get started with pilot gig rowing in Bermuda, you’ll need to make contact with the club online or via a member. We offer all prospective new rowers 3 free rows. In these sessions, you will usually join a regular crew and be guided by one of our experienced coxswains. They aim to give people a taste of what gig rowing involves and introduce the basic rowing technique.
Age range: 13+
We ask that everyone come prepared to listen to the instructions provided and to have a little patience with themselves and their fellow crew as they try something new.
After 3 sessions, if you would like to continue gig rowing, then we’ll ask you to sign up to become a member. The club offers a range of membership options, including adult and junior memberships, as well as the option to join as a social member. Once you’ve become a member, you’ll have access to the club’s scheduling app, Teamer, where you sign up to participate in our regular schedule of rowing sessions and races.
Equipment
One of the great things about pilot gig rowing is that it requires relatively little equipment. The BPGC provides all the necessary equipment, including boats, oars, and life jackets. You’ll need to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and solid shoes with non-slip soles (all prepared to go in the ocean). Please bring your water, and some rowers wear fingerless gloves to protect their hands during training rows. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended for most days out on the water.
Training
After your introductory rows, your coxswains will continue to guide you through the basics of gig rowing technique, safety procedures, and navigation. It is a continual learning process and rowers are given feedback at each stage along the way. Each row is based on the skill set of the crew.
Even our experienced rowers will tell you that we’re all learning to improve our technique each time we’re out.
Racing
For those who are interested in a competitive element, the BPGC also hosts a number of races throughout the year. These races provide an opportunity for members to compete against other crews and challenge themselves to improve their rowing skills.
Contacting the BPGC
If you’re interested in getting started with pilot gig rowing in Bermuda, you are in the right place! Contact us via the links on the website or social media pages. Our friendly rowers will be happy to answer any questions and help you get started on your pilot gig rowing journey.
Gig rowing is an exciting and rewarding sport; our members look forward to sharing the thrill of being out on Bermuda’s water with you. Don’t hesitate to contact us when you’re ready, and we look forward to seeing you out on the water soon!
