Founded in 1979 by a group of local businessmen led by Abe Bashara of Bishop's Restaurant, the Greater Lawrence Community Boating Program was created to provide boating education, recreation, and a positive summer experience for all youth and adults in the Merrimack Valley. With just six boats, a tent, and a used dock, these businessmen set out to do just that.

 

We are able to provide sailing lessons, kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boarding, crew team and rowing for all ages and abilities through our greatest asset, the Merrimack River. Now with over 170 watercraft, a 10,000 square foot boathouse, and a docking system capable of holding over 125 boats, we can expand upon our founders' mission of providing a safe and positive environment for our members to take part in some of the best water activities in all of New England.

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We encourage you to take a visit to our facility to get a real glimpse of what the boating program offers. Our friendly staff will help you find your way, and set you up with a complimentary day pass to get you started (see Summer Program page for more info). Happy boating, we hope to see you at the GLCBP soon!