Rafting is a recreational activity using a raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. White-water rafting uses various degrees of rough water to thrill passengers, and has become increasingly popular over the last thirty years, especially as a tourist attraction. For white-water rafting the craft is almost always an inflatable boat. This consists of very durable, multi-layered rubberized fabrics with several independent air chambers. Its length varies between 3.5 metres (11 feet) and 6 metres (20 feet), the width between 1.8 metres (6 feet) and 2.5 metres (8 feet). Rafts come in several different forms, the most common being the symmetrical raft steered with a paddle at the stern. Rafts typically hold four to twelve people and are usually propelled by them using paddles.
Whitewater rafting can be a dangerous sport, and basic safety precautions are essential. Protective clothing, helmets, and life-jackets should be worn. In many areas legislation requires rafting operators to observe safety measures, ranging from the certification of outfitters, rafts, and raft leaders, to more stringent regulations about equipment and procedures.
Picture Gallery
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Tourists bamboo rafting on the Navua River
© Sally Bowden
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