White Water Rafting Info

The thrill of white water rafting attracts thousands of fans each year. In the event you haven't tried it yet, you are missing out on one of the best adventure trips to be had. If done correctly, the white water rafting can be safe and fun for all parents, from beginner to advanced paddlers. Here is a look at everything you need to know before you go by river.

Classification

As mentioned in Wikipedia (and based on the International Scale of River Difficulty), here is classifications of rivers for White Water Rafting Tours

CLASS I

Easy moving water with a few riffles and small waves

CLASS II

Small to medium rapids with waves up to three feet high, some obvious obstacles to maneuver around

CLASS III

Medium to moderate difficult rapids with high irregular waves, narrow channels, rocks and holes, some maneuvering required

CLASS IV

Difficult to very difficult; long turbulent rapids with powerful waves and holes, many obstacles requiring precise maneuvering

CLASS V

Extremely difficult; long violent rapids that must be scouted from shore, dangerous drops, unstable eddys, irregular currents

Types of most recent used White Water Rafts

The raft is a modern dinghy, which consists of very durable fabric, rubber multi-layer coating of vinyl or several independent air chambers. The length varies between 3.5 m (11 ft) and 6 meters (20 ft), width 1.8 m (6 ft) and 2.5m (8 ft). The exception to this size rule is usually designed as a raft of mobile packraft one person can be as small as 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) long and weigh as little as four pounds (1 , 8 kg).

Rafts come in a few different types. In Europe, the most common is the symmetrical raft with a paddle address on the back. Other types are the raft asymmetrical, rudder-controlled raft and the symmetrical, with central command (paddles). Rafts are usually propelled with ordinary paddles and typically hold 4-12 people. In Russian, the rafts are handmade and are often a catamaran style with five inflatable tubes attached to a frame. Pairs of paddlers navigate these boats. Catamaran style rafts have become popular in the western United States, too, but usually takes the place of paddle.

Safety to take during white water rafting

Rafting can be a dangerous sport, especially if basic safety rules are not respected.

Ensure that your swimming ability is first class. Always go with guided trips.

Choose a reputed rafting company.

No raft in the dark.

Choose the lifejacket which suits you.

Do not wear over weight lifejacket.

Listen to Your Guide.

Protect your head.