Building Confidence and Teamwork: Dragon Boating with Scouts

At Dragon Boat Experience (DBX), we believe that dragon boating isn’t just about racing — it’s about building teamwork, confidence, and life skills that carry far beyond the water. That’s why we’re passionate about working with youth and community groups, helping young people develop resilience and earn achievements through exciting outdoor activities.

Recently, we had the privilege of running a dragon boat session with the 3rd Royal Eltham Scout Group, bringing together a troop of enthusiastic Scouts for an afternoon they won’t forget.

Why Dragon Boating is Perfect for Scouts

Dragon boating ticks so many boxes for Scout groups:

• Adventure & challenge – Scouts love trying something new, and dragon boating delivers a mix of excitement, coordination, and energy.
• Teamwork – Success comes when every paddler works in rhythm, just like in Scouting activities that rely on communication and collaboration.
• Skills for badges – Sessions can contribute towards badges related to water activities, adventure, fitness, and teamwork.

• Confidence building – For many, it’s their first time on the water, learning to paddle and steer develops independence and resilience.

The 3rd Royal Eltham Scout Session

On the day, our coaches welcomed the troop to the water with a full safety briefing, a warm up game on land and an introduction to paddling technique. Within minutes, Scouts who had never held a paddle before were working together to move the boat as one.

As the session progressed, we ran short races and challenges to build excitement and test their new skills. From the first splash to the final cheer, the energy was electric. Leaders told us how impressed they were with the way the Scouts supported one another, stepping up to help teammates and celebrate successes together.

The Impact on Young People

The smiles said it all. For the Scouts, the session wasn’t just a fun afternoon — it was a chance to:

• Step out of their comfort zones.
• Learn new skills in a safe and supportive environment.
• Build confidence that transfers to school, Scouting and life

One young paddler summed it up perfectly: “I didn’t think I’d be able to do it, but we did it together as a team. I can’t wait to try again!”

Our Commitment to Community & Youth

Working with groups like the 3rd Royal Eltham Scouts reflects our commitment to giving back and helping the next generation thrive. With over 20 years of combined experience in coaching and racing and a passion for community involvement through our links with Windy Pandas Dragon Boat Club, we’re proud to make dragon boating accessible, safe and inspiring for young people.

Interested in a Dragon Boat Experience for Your Youth Group?

We offer tailored sessions for Scouts, schools, youth clubs and community organisations across London and the UK. Whether you’re working towards badges, planning a special adventure, or simply looking to inspire your group with something new, DBX delivers unforgettable experiences on the water.

Contact us today on the contact form below to book a youth or community dragon boat session and see how teamwork on the water builds confidence for life.