5 Minutes With… Kabincraft Adventures – Costal Rowing in Dorset

We spoke with Liam Patton, founder of Kabincraft Adventures, a brand new organisation that focuses on coastal rowing in Dorset to support wellbeing. Accessible to all and involving gentle, no-impact movement, the rowing activities offer people living with, recovering from, or affected by cancer, the chance to reconnect with their bodies, build confidence and enjoy the calm and peacefulness of being out on the water.

Who are your services aimed at supporting?

As rowing is a ‘no impact activity’, its reach is exceptionally broad. As long as we can make the boat accessible for people to access, they use their core and upper body strength to manage learning to use the oar, and then they’re off and going as a rower. People recovering from surgery or living with a condition which can affect their energy levels should not be deterred by trying to row as part of a recreational crew. Competitive rowing is brutally hard, however, this is often a target many people aim for as their journey through the sport develops.

How do you cater for people with specific needs?

We recognise that everyone’s needs are different and the comfort and safety of rowers is our main priority. If a new rower came to us with any specific physical limitations which they chose to share, we would be able to have a supportive conversation with them to consider adaptations. For instance, helping them decide which side of the boat they would be best to row on. This could avoid aggravating any soreness following surgery. Our boat is accessible on level ground, right up to the point of entry where the rower has a few steps down onto the water.

What’s the most rewarding thing about the work you do?

Having greatly benefited, both physically and mentally, from rowing myself, I love seeing people react to all the great discoveries it can bring. Whether that’s stopping out in the bay to look back on the coast, or catching your first big drive and feeling the boat cut through the water. I also love getting to the end of the row and people asking if they could come back to go further next time.

What would you say to those who are considering getting in touch with you but are nervous or apprehensive?

I’ve seen the benefits of this pastime outweigh almost every concern I have had shared with me. Perhaps if you have a deep fear of water then you would prefer not to row in rougher conditions, however, even people with that fear have found gig rowing the best way to expose themselves to being at sea and thriving thereafter.

Do you have testimonials from people that have used your services? Yes here’s a link to our google reviews.

“I did a fireworks row this evening with Kabincraft Adventures…. What a fantastic experience! Liam provided lots of information about rowing technique, equipment, safety and communicated brilliantly throughout the session. I felt in safe hands whilst on the water, and would highly recommend to anyone! I have never rowed before, but Liam and Heather did a brilliant job of coaching the crew through each step, and providing some local knowledge of Weymouth along the way. Thank you!”

“Been out twice this week with Heather and Liam and enjoyed every moment so much. They are both relaxed and ‘easy’ and have a knack at putting you at ease. If you aren’t sure whether this is for you just give it a go! Liam was constantly teaching and encouraging which made it so good. The sea is relaxing, healing, calming and exhilarating – haven’t stopped thinking about the two lovely evenings since I got home! Can’t wait to go back and go out again!”

Can you tell us about your team?

We are a start-up-business for 2025 so its run purely by me, Liam, with help from my wife Heather and our amazing family and friends. Heather and I met through gig rowing and it’s given us so many good times. I have been the captain of my local rowing club and raced for them at the World Pilot Gig Championships in the Isles of Scilly, as well as all over the South West. Away from rowing, we are expecting our first baby with a little girl arriving in December 2025.

What are the values of your organisation and can you describe your organisation in 3 words?

Our organisation is built on the values of bringing peace and wellness through the escape rowing brings from everyday life. In three words I would describe Kabincraft Adventures as – Exploring Uplifting Wellness.

And finally, how are you funded and what can people do to support you if they would like to?

Our funding is currently all generated through the rates we charge for our services, however we will be exploring grant funding options to provide some rehab and wellness services free at the point of delivery in future.

You can discover more about Kabincraft Adventures on their website www.kabincraftadventures.com. To find similar experiences in your area, please search on Cancer Care Map’s homepage using your postcode. Consult your cancer team or GP before making any lifestyle changes. Some exercise programmes may not be suitable alongside certain cancer treatments.