What happens in a white water rafting briefing? Your guide fits your kit, shows you how to paddle and explains what to do if you end up in the water.
This guide gives general information only. It isn’t training. Always follow your guide’s instructions on the day.
Kitting up
You’re given a wetsuit, buoyancy aid and helmet, and the guide checks they fit. A buoyancy aid should be snug, and a helmet should sit level and not slide. Say if anything rubs or feels loose.
Sitting and paddling
The guide shows you how to sit in the raft, where to put your feet and how to hold the paddle so you don’t hit your neighbour. You practise a few commands, such as paddling forward, paddling back and getting down into the boat.
Listening to the guide
Guides use short commands you can hear over the noise of the water. The briefing is where you learn them. Some providers practise them on flat water before you reach the rapids.
If you fall in
The guide explains what to do if you end up in the water. In general, you stay calm, keep your feet up and facing downstream, and follow the guide’s instructions to get back to the raft or the bank. Providers also have safety boaters or kayakers nearby on many rivers.
Asking questions
This is the time to ask. Tell the guide if you have a health condition, if you’re not a strong swimmer or if you’re nervous. A good guide wants to know.
Water levels and the plan
The guide may explain the river grade and what to expect on the route. Conditions change, so they may adjust the plan on the day.
In short:
- Kit fit, paddling, commands and what to do in the water
- Listen closely and ask questions
- Tell the guide about any worries