New York Outrigger

NYO gives you three free sessions. After than, you can join for the season. NYO members are, by far, the friendliest and most patient people I’ve met in an extremely long time in New York.
You sign up for a session; show up, preferably early because they might fill your spot; sign a waiver; take a 15-​minute class; and get on the water. Absolutely no experience is needed and you don’t have to know how to swim. Life vests are available, if wanted. The water is calm and experienced folks will be in the vessel with you.
The scariest part of this was when Hudson River water splashed in my eye and mouth. All I could think about was that the Gowanus has gonorrhea. But I had to let it go because it’s really hard to paddle with your eyes closed and holding your breath. An NYO paddler reassured me, «Hey, the Hudson is better than it used to be.»
It’s also great for the core and isn’t too strenuous.
I had an absolute blast! I might just be back to try their stand-​up paddling.

I love being on the water so finding a new way to do so, with 3 free novice sessions, is fantastic!
I got lucky to have attained a seat on the canoe as spots fill up quick when novice sessions registration opens. At the session, you learn the basics on land for about 20mns and then you’re off with a crew to give it a go for another 30−45mns. I was hooked instantly!
Keith and Will, the organizers are friendly, helpful and encouraging. They really make you want to come back for more… and you know what, I’ll definitely be back!

Thanks to Calvin for planning and reserving a place for his good friends on a perfectly lovely Saturday morning.
This was a fun experience and I’m just a bit mad at myself for not going earlier in the season at the suggestion of Jocelyn and Emery.
The people who volunteer at NYO are so passionate about this sport, they gave us plenty of information about it. It’s so nice of them to go out of their way to show newbies this sport that is almost unheard of in on this coast. They show such enthusiasm and excitement for this sport. I’m definitely going to try and pick it up again next season when it starts (April, or as soon as the weather gets warm enough). The normal season runs from April — end of September.
On Saturdays they offer 3 sessions for the novice. 10:30, 11:15, and 12. You’re briefed for about 15mins on learning the technique of paddling (which is very different from rowing, kayaking, or canoeing). The paddle itself is made of a light wood and much shorter and slightly angled. Then you’re assigned a seat on the 6 man boat and you’re off. There are 3 pro’s and 3 novices per boat, then begin paddling! You paddle about 15 times on each side and then alternate. For about 30mins you paddle your way through a scenic view of the West side near Chelsea and then you return back to their dock.
Just the views alone, I can see how one can become so passionate about this sport. Over several conversations with all the volunteers, they say it’s a stress reliever. You go out there and give it your all, take in the views, and work it out. If you know me, I’m all about relieving work related stress. In any way that I can get it too, drinking, running, going to the gym, and extreme sports! It’s Team oriented so remember, there is no «I» in Team! They even have teams, mens, womens, age groups, and etc. So it can get very competitive and they travel for some of these competitions all over the world.
I’ve learned that timing is key when it comes to switching sides and that everyone should paddle at the same time so the boat moves steadily.
For novice sessions, you can participate up to 3 times a season and then you have to make a decision to take it up and pay the member ship dues for the season ($ 350 I believe?).
After a hard working session, you can hitup the Frying Pan which is right next door. Or head to Ovest Pizzoteca like we did.
PS — If you’re scared of small cramped spaces and have claustrophobia, keep in mind the boat is very narrow. It’s similar to a kayak (slim) and only fits your torso and nothing else. This may not be for you.
Check out the website for more information!