So, you’re getting a river rafting and heading out to defend me against the raging river rapids? Blessed you!First timer? No worries! Here’s what you should know before you go:
Rafting the lower New River is a challenging but fun run for new paddlers.
Shade from the Sun
Bring some sunscreen. Even if the sun isn’t blazing through the clouds in the morning, it might look out as the day drags on. And even though they don’t seem harsh, the sun’s rays can still burn your skin if you’re out for a complete day of rafting.
Brace Yourself in the Raft
Unless you’re buying a swim, remain planted strongly in a water rafting. You will have 3 main points of balance:
- Feet- maintain your front foot tucked gently under midair tube before you, or in the ft.Hold if you’re in the front of the raft. But don’t shove them in too far, because should you fall out, you don’t want your feet.To be trapped.
- Seat- Stick to the outside rim of the vessel to discover the best balance, unless your guide instructs you to get down.
- Paddle- Believe it or not, sticking your paddle in this has an extra bracing point. So, when the waves get harder, water rafting harder can help keep them from tossing you into the rapids.
Be Swim-Ready
Despite having the best bracing, you will probably find yourself in the. Your guide will let you know before you even reach the speeds which way you will want to swim if your fallout too much from the raft. Once you’re in the water, orient yourself to checkout your guide’s cues. She or he won’t steer you into a threat.
Swim hard when you can, and if you are not a strong swimmer or can’t swim, let your guide know before you start. Most importantly: Continue to keep your legs up, because you can certainly get them captured by a rock across the river bed.
While you’re operating the river, make sure to regularly tighten your PFD (personal flotation device. Sometimes called a “life coat,” but that can be misleading, because it isn’t always a sure-fire basic safety measure.) The water can release your straps, so just provide them with a tug every once in a while.
Paddle Together, Not Harder
In the water rafting of 8 or more paddlers, you only can’t make it move. You intend to draw strong paddle strokes, but half of a vessel stroking hard won’t be nearly as effective as a team of 8 working smoothly in unison. Prominent rafters: watch each other to stay in sync. Everyone behind: follow their lead.
Listen Up
It sounds like a no-brainer, but your guide understands what they’re doing, so stay alert and listen to the commands. Lacking an individual paddle stroke in the middle of a rapid can mean the difference in barreling through a wave or being tossed over by it. Chat and revel in your time and effort on the river, but keep an ear canal open for just about any instructions as you go.
After you’ve tackled the rapids, tell us your tips as you enjoy white water rafting!
