Whitewater rafting always conjures the image of swirling rapids that try to swallow everyone on the boat whole. While this is still a considered a very dangerous sport, technological advances in inflatable boat technology as well as stricter measures on laws that govern it have made rafting safer by leaps and bounds.
Using inflatable rafts that are durable and stable, whitewater rafters can now enjoy the adventure without really thinking that this might be their last day on earth. Inflatable boats that are used for this water sport can range anywhere from 6 to 8 feet in width and 11 to 20 feet in length. Depending on the size, an inflatable for whitewater rafting can hold 4 to 12 people.
The buoyancy tubes on an inflatable boat make them hard to flip over on whitewater even as it goes past rocks, strong waves and steep drops. The independent air chambers stabilize the boat and make them difficult to turn over. This is exactly the kind of security that rafters need so they can ably maneuver the boat through the most challenging rapids.
Those who are still new to whitewater rafting using blowups are often concerned about the strength and durability of the material used in constructing the raft. Won’t it get punctured as soon as it encounters roots, rocks and sharp edges?
Valid as this concern might be, the answer is generally no. Inflatable boats are made of strong and very resilient PVC or Hypalon material that can withstand sharp and jagged edges pretty well. Fabric technology has become more advanced that the durability of inflatables have gone by leaps and bounds. In fact, unless an inflatable is purposely punctured, it will just bounce off obstacles that would otherwise have ripped to pieces a hard shell.
The good thing about an inflatable is that you can still repair a puncture in case it does happen even when you’re still on the water. For as long as you have your repair kit- which you should always have before heading out- you should have no problems.
But just because you have a dependable boat to carry you on your whitewater adventure, it does not mean that you become complacent and ignore other safety measures. You, even if you are not leading the group, should have prior knowledge about the whitewater you plan to take your inflatable adventure in. You may be faced with environmental dangers when you are on the spot but it helps to have a general idea of the “water terrain” so you can visualize how you’ll navigate through the obstacles.
Always see to it that you and your teammates have your life jackets on and the supplies, emergency rescue equipment, first aid kit and communication devices on board before you go to the water and on to your adventure. Everyone on board should know how to paddle and have basic swimming abilities as well.
A whitewater adventure is an experience of a lifetime. With proper knowledge, skill and a healthy respect for the water, you should have a blast conquering the rapids on an inflatable boat.
Last but not least, don’t forget to check out our Sea Eagle reviews and this post on the Sea Eagle 285 fob.
