About our Club

Now in our twelfth year, we have approaching a hundred members and can be seen in the Harbour nearly every day of the week during the summer rowing season.

We are registered as a charitable incorporated organisation with the Charity Commission and we are run by a committee of volunteers. We have three lively competitive squads - men's, ladies' and juniors' and a growing group of people who row recreationally. 

The beginnings

The Club was founded in 2007 by members of Ilfracombe Yacht Club who were inspired by the success of other local gig clubs, a well-attended public meeting and a few pints. Our early motto was, “If they can do it in Appledore, we can do it in Ilfracombe!” We are very grateful to Appledore Pilot Gig Club for the support they gave us in those initial years.

Local support was incredibly generous. Initially we raised enough funds from our community to pay for our first wooden gig, Rapparee, completed and delivered in 2008, as well as the trailer, and a set of oars. Grants met the costs of our two fibreglass boats, Lantern and Capstone, and other equipment.

We continue to rely heavily on the support of the local community to enable to maintain the presence of pilot gigs in Ilfracombe Harbour.

Please see our sponsorship page for some examples of the local companies who have supported us recently.