Adventure Group – Bell/Dragon boating
For some time, group members have been asking for a shared rowing adventure. We have finally found a suitable place to do this and we offer to you (drum roll…) bell boating or dragon boating!
A bell boat accommodates up to 11 rowers and a dragon boat holds 17 people. We will select the boat according to how many people sign up for this activity.
This is what you need to know:
| Nature of activity | Multi oar rowing in a bell boat or dragon boat. |
| Name of u3a organiser and organiser’s contact details | Carolyn Hartley, email via: adventure@u3a.dawlish.info |
| Location of activity | Haven Banks, Haven Road, Exeter, EX2 8DP |
| Date and start time | Either Monday 8th June at 2:45pm or Thursday 25th June at 3:30pm
Actual date to be confirmed. |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Cost | The dragon boat costs £227 for the session; the bell boat costs £165. This cost will be divided between the participants.
We will choose the most cost effective boat, depending on numbers. |
| Cost includes | Safety briefing. Instruction on land and water. Buoyancy aids and waterproof jackets (if required). |
| Terms and conditions | Terms and conditions are shown here. |
| Deadline for commitment | Please contact Carolyn by Friday 1st May to show your interest and confirm your availability for the two dates.
Carolyn will choose the most popular date and calculate the per person cost based on the number of people that are available that day. |
| Deadline for payment | The full cost per person to be paid to Dawlish and District u3a Treasurer by Friday 8th May.
Bank details are as follows: Name of bank: NatWest If you are paying by cheque please ensure your cheque is with the treasurer before the deadline date above. |
| Cancellation policy | Your payment for this adventure is not refundable unless you are able to find someone to take your place. If you are unable to attend, please notify Carolyn as soon as possible. |
| Procedure for notifying group if provider cancels | In the event of cancellation Carolyn will send an email to all those who have booked and update the details on the website. Please check the website on the morning of the activity in case of last minute cancellation. |
| Level of fitness required or any particular skills (you must satisfy yourself that you are physically able to participate in the activity). | You will need to be sufficiently mobile to climb in and out of the boat. We recommend that you do not participate if you have back problems. |
| Personal medical conditions | Please notify the provider at the start if there is anything that will impact on your ability to participate fully in this activity. |
| u3a Disclaimer | Please note that whilst the u3a organisers are concerned for everyone’s welfare, by taking part in this activity you should recognise that your safety is your own responsibility. |
| Appropriate footwear & clothing | We are advised to wear a splashproof top (although these are available from Haven Banks if necessary) and closed toe footwear e.g. Crocs.
Haven Bank have published a clothing and kit list here. |
| Storage of personal belongings | There is provision to store some personal belongings but we recommend that you leave valuables at home if possible. |
| Toilet / refreshment facilities | Toilets are available on site. Refreshments can be purchased at one of the many cafes and bars nearby. |
| Meeting point | In reception at Haven Banks |
| Public transport and car parking facilities | Exeter St Thomas railway station is about a half mile walk away from Exeter Quay, or car parking is available nearby at one of the car parks along Michael Browning Way (a 3 min walk to Haven Banks from here).
If you need a lift to the venue or are able to offer one then please get in touch with the organiser. |
| COVID-19 | If you are exhibiting any of the symptoms of Covid-19 or flu, please stay at home to keep everyone safe. |
| Risk assessment | A risk assessment has been conducted for this activity. It is recommended that you read this. Please find it here. |
Any questions? Just get in touch via email: adventure@u3a.dawlish.info.
Last updated 23/04/2026