Common Myths About River Rafting
If you visit or vacation in an area where there's a beautiful, rushing river, then you will probably see river rafting groups scattered along the river. Rafting is a lovely way to navigate these waters and spend time with friends and family members. But there are an unfortunate number of myths and misconceptions floating around about river rafting, and some of them may be preventing you and others from fully enjoying this activity. Take a look at those myths, below.
Myth: River rafting and white water rafting are the same thing.
White water rafting is an adrenaline-fueled activity that involves taking a raft over rough rapids. The participants get jostled around a lot, and there is a notable risk of falling off the raft. White water rafting is a type of river rafting, but not all river rafting is white water rafting. If you prefer a slower-paced activity on the water, you can go river rafting in a calmer part of the river. You'll float gently down the river rather than being bumped around, and you'll move significantly slower.
Myth: River rafting is only for big groups.
There are some pretty large river rafts that can hold 16, 20, or even more people. Rafting on one of these massive rafts can be fun. However, if you'd rather go with a smaller group, that is definitely an option. Most rafting companies do also have smaller rafts that only hold four or eight people. They may even have some smaller, 2-person rafts for couples. If you're on a narrower stretch of river, you're more likely to see people in smaller rafts rather than big ones that take up the whole width of the water.
Myth: You need to be a good swimmer to go river rafting.
Being able to swim is definitely an asset if you plan on river rafting, but you don't need to be the strongest swimmer. You can and should wear a life preserver while rafting, which will keep you safe if you do fall off the raft. And chances are, you won't fall off the raft. It would be unusual for a rafting company to have any sort of swimming test, or to only allow swimmers on the rafts.
With these myths busted, you are now even more prepared to go river rafting. Talk to a rafting company nearby to learn more about their individual policies and procedures.
For more info, contact a local company like Zoo Town Surfers.