Whitewater Rafting: What to ask!

wwluvr4life  Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Want to go rafting?  Been doing some research on locations, rivers, and rafting companies?  If so, perfect!  If you are planning on taking the family on a nice raft trip; taking the seasoned gang out for a wet & wild ride; or taking a large group of random people rafting then here are a few things you may want to ask yourself and the rafting companies of interest.

Every rafting company is unique in its own right.  Consider the fact that one company may have some nice amenities while a smaller company can give you a more personalized experience with a better price on a similar package deal.

Here are some general questions to ask when talking to the person on the other end of the line.

1. What is the drive time to and from the river?  Some rafting companies are closer to the put-in than the take out.
2. How long is the river trip in hours & mileage?
3. What is for lunch?
4. Will there be video of the rafting trip?
5. How many customers are expected to be at base camp during my vacation?

Customer based rafting questions you should be sure to ask:

1. What percentage of your raft guides have over 5 years of experience, over 10 years of experience?  The reason for this question is due to the fact that some rafting companies train large amounts of guides each summer and retain fewer “senior” guides than other companies do.  Which, believe it or not, will have an impact on the type of ride you’ll have (i.e. smooth lines, less paddling, a relaxed versus intense raft guide).
2. Can I request a specific raft guide? Yes you can; however, sometimes the request is taken but not fulfilled so if you’re seeking your favorite guide ask point blank “does he/she still work at your company and if so am I guaranteed he/she will be my guide?”
3. Is non-standard raft lines allowed?  Here is a good example of the question to be asked, “If we trust our raft guide and want to go BIG and swim is that allowed or against company policy?  Now this question is more for the seasoned rafters who may want a wilder ride.  Since there are companies who are standardizing the way the river is being ran make sure you ask about what is “prohibited.”
4. How many boats & people will be on the trip?  On large days you may find yourself in a mix of 8-12 boats, which equals less play time  and more paddling (everyone gets a turn to play then you have to make up time to meet the end of the day take out time).

Tip:  When you go to book your trip be sure to check the “hidden” fees on amenities that you may or may not use.

Questions you may have:

1. What do I wear?  Cold weather – fleece, Warm Weather – swimming trunks.  Stay away from blue jeans and cotton.  Cotton is bad (stays wet and cold) unless it’s a really HOT day.
2. What should I take on the river?  A camera, medication, a bottle of water (perhaps), sunscreen, and cigarettes/chewing tobacco (make sure it’s not prohibited!).
3. I don’t want to fall out.  Will I?  That is the goal if that is your wish.  Just keep in mind that rafting is not YET running on rails like roller coasters so there is never an absolute guarantee that you will not fall out.
4. Is it customary to tip the raft guide?  If the raft guide took good care of you then you should take good care of them.  Typically 10-20% of the cost of the groups raft trip, similar to how you would tip a waiter/waitress.

I suppose that just about does it.

Good rafting to you, my friend!  Hope to see you on the water!

- West Virginia White Water Lover

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