About This Activity
Neponset Rowing Club (NRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering competitive and recreational rowing for middle schoolers, high school athletes, and adults across Milton, Dorchester, Mattapan, Quincy, and Greater Boston. Operating out of historic Milton Landing on the Neponset River estuary, NRC provides learn to row and competitive programs. Led by USRowing-certified coaches, all programs welcome athletes of all skill levels—from total beginners to experienced rowers.
- Juniors High School Program (Grades 9–12 & Grade 8): Offered during Fall, Spring, and Summer seasons. High school athletes will join Novice (learning the rowing stroke from scratch) and Varsity tracks. Athletes train in 4- and 8-person sweep shells and compete in weekend regattas across New England.
- Middle School Program (Grades 7–8): A supportive introduction to rowing where students learn stroke fundamentals, water safety, and boat handling while building confidence and friendships in stable sweep shells.
- Adult & Community Programs: Fitness-focused and recreational sweep rowing for adults of all experience levels who enjoy a team atmosphere and exercise on the scenic Neponset River.
Dates & Schedule
- Fall Season: September – November (Weekdays 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM + Saturday mornings 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM + Weekend regattas)
- Spring Season: Late March – May/June (Sprint racing season)
- Summer Programs: July – August (2-week intensive morning sessions, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Weather Policy: Practices run rain or shine. Training is only canceled for active lightning or extreme water conditions.
Location
Milton Town Landing
25 Wharf Street
Milton, MA 02186
(Adjacent to the Milton Yacht Club on the Neponset River estuary)
Costs & Pricing
- High School Season Fee: $1,350 total ($1,050 operating & coaching fee + $300 regatta entry fees).
- Summer Camp Sessions: ~$800 per 2-week intensive program.
- 2-Week Risk-Free Trial: The first two weeks of the season serve as a trial period; if an athlete chooses not to continue, tuition is fully refunded.
Equipment Included: NRC supplies all boats, oars, launches, and safety gear (no personal rowing equipment
How to Register
Programs are open for registration online via ArbiterSports / Neponset Rowing Club.
Athlete Checklist for Registration:
- Complete ArbiterSports registration & waiver
- Swim test completion form (new rowers)
- Current sports physical (within 13 months)
- USRowing Basic Membership & signed waiver
- USRowing Safety Video viewing
Contact
info@neponsetrowing.org
jburbridge@neponsetrowing.org (Program Director: Jessica Burbridge)
Ratings & Reviews
What Parents Like
- Parents consistently describe the coaches as knowledgeable, patient, and invested in helping athletes of all skill levels grow both on and off the water. They appreciate the balance between skill development and fostering confidence. (1, 2)
- Families frequently mention that rowers quickly become part of a welcoming, inclusive team. New athletes—even those with no prior rowing experience—are reported to feel accepted and supported. (1)
- Many parents note that the club does an outstanding job teaching beginners while still challenging more experienced athletes. Families appreciate that no prior rowing experience is necessary. (1)
What Parents Think Could Be Improved
- As an outdoor sport, rowing occasionally requires schedule changes due to weather or river conditions, something families say is simply part of the experience. (1)
- While families generally feel the experience is worthwhile, it's worth noting that racing, travel, and rowing apparel can add to the overall cost beyond program tuition. The club's scholarship opportunities do help offset expenses for eligible families.
Our Take
Neponset Rowing Club receives consistently positive feedback from families for its welcoming culture, experienced coaching staff, and emphasis on personal growth alongside athletic development. Parents especially value that complete beginners are embraced just as enthusiastically as experienced rowers, making the club an approachable entry point into a sport that can often feel intimidating.
While rowing does require a greater time commitment than many recreational sports (and families should expect early mornings and weekend competitions for competitive athletes), most reviewers feel the friendships, confidence, discipline, and teamwork their children gain make the investment well worth it. For families looking for a unique summer program or year-round sport that combines fitness, leadership, and community, Neponset Rowing Club earns high marks as one of Greater Boston's standout youth rowing organizations.

