Rafting Trips - Types of Boats

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Get Ready for Rafting Trips
Types of Boats
By Paul Cleveland

The two styles of rafting are dictated by the choice of boat: paddleboats and oar boats. A paddleboat can hold up to 6 to 8 people plus the guide. In these craft, the crew powers the boat upon command of the guide, who steers from the back. You are an active participant in getting downriver and through rapids.

In an oar boat, the guide sits on a frame mounted either in the center or the stern. Instead of acting as a rudder, the guide uses the oars and some paddle assistance from the crew to navigate the boat. You are still involved in getting through rapids, but to a lesser degree than in a paddleboat.

Pre-Trip Preparation
One of the best things about rafting is that most people off the street can don a wetsuit, hop in a boat, and with the proper instruction become a paddle master in minutes. It is that simple. No special pre-trip physical training is required, although the fitter you are the more enjoyable your overall experience will be.

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