Welcome to East River C.R.E.W.

We are a grassroots nonprofit organization that offers a portal into adventure, friendship, hands-on learning, exploration, new perspectives, advocacy and a whole lot of fun.

We offer free non-competitive rowing and learning opportunities about the East River to people of all ages who do not need to be athletic nor have previous rowing experience. Whether you’re a first-timer and want to try your hand at a new endeavor, interested in volunteering or seeking to re-experience the waters around New York City, we wholeheartedly welcome you to join us!

About Us

East River C.R.E.W. seeks to impart a love for, and an understanding of, the waters of the East River community of New York City.

Through educational and recreational activities, we will promote the stewardship of our waters. We pull together for the river.

Education & Recreation

East River C.R.E.W. actively works with organizations like the NY-NJ Harbor Estuary Program, the Metropolitan Waterfront Alliance and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, to plan the future of our river, as well as teach responsible stewardship of it today.

We combine opportunities to learn about conservation, ecology and the environment with the serenity and adventure of rowing on our urban estuary.

Get Involved

Although East River CREW’s rowboats and community rowing are grounded due to Esplanade Repairs, we are proud to sponsor “City of Water in your Neighborhood” Saturday July 13, 3-6:00 pm, highlighting our mission to impart love, respect, and understanding of the waters of the East and Harlem River communities of New York City.

Visitors to the East River Esplanade at 96th Street, Manhattan, will encounter fun opportunities for kids and adults to learn more about open water rowing and Estuary life, via

  • interactive crafts and science experiments,
  • free copies of our Estuary Guide,
  • newly reprinted in English & Spanish,
  • plus a gallery walk of rowing history on the East and Harlem Rivers.

Activities are held rain or shine, canceled at www.eastrivercrew.org only in the case of severe weather, thunder and lightning.

Join us on July 13th down by the river’s side! This event is made possible with support from Council Member Ben Kallos.