FAQ
How are rivers graded for difficulty? TOP
Rapids are graded 1-6, Grade 1 (Class 1) being slow moving current. Grade 6 (Class 6) being wild raging rapids that can not be safely rafted. Grades vary according to the technical difficulty to raft, rocks and water features, water volume and hazards. Commercial whitewater rafting is usually Grade 2-5 with Grade 3-4 most common. The Nagara is a natural river without dams so the water volume varies according to the weather. It is generally considered a Grade 3 river. Depending on the river level, often it can have exciting large bouncy rapids while at lower levels may have smaller rocky drops. It is not very technical and has relaxing calm sections between rapids.
When is the best time to go rafting? TOP
The rafting season is April to November and is very popular during the warmer months June to September. Usually the early summer rainy season gives better water conditions and late summer has more sunny days.
What kind of rafts do we use? TOP
Our boats are Incept self bailing rafts, famous worldwide as commercial whitewater rafts. We use 6-8 person, 4.3 meter, inflatable rafts. Each boat has a rafting guide and can take 7 customers.
Is rafting safe? TOP
Safety is our first concern.
Outdoor water activities obviously are dangerous.
All participants are required to wear a personal floatation device (life jacket), and helmet. You also get a paddle. We have experienced guides give detailed explanations of safety, paddling and rescue procedures with demonstrations. Participants are all required to partake in personal rescue training and paddle training. We take rescue equipment and a first Aid kit on every trip. We make every effort to ensure your safety. If you do have any relevant medical condition, please tell your guide before the trip. Our goal is for you to be completely informed and prepared so you can relaxed and enjoy your trip.
Who can come rafting? TOP
The whitewater section of the Nagara river is generally recommended for adults to Junior high school students.
Age 12 & older. Please ask about family rafting for younger children. Participants range up to late 60’s.
I’m not fit, can I still go rafting? TOP
Yes, rafting does not require great endurance. The river current is flowing downstream so we work with the power of nature, riding the water downriver. Everyone works together as a team so everyone is expected to paddle. All we ask is that you do your best according to your fitness level. In the rapids we usually paddle together for just a few good strokes to move onto the appropriate moving water. On the calm water we take longer sets of easy strokes.
Can I get a discount if I bring a group? TOP
Yes, we give a discount for every 7 people. You get half a free trip with seven people. A free trip with 14 people and increasing accordingly.
I can not swim, can I go rafting? TOP
Yes, every participant is issued with a PFD (life jacket), so if you fall in the water the PFD will float you without you needing to swim. We often have customers who can not swim. If you are concerned please tell your guide and we can put you in a safer position near the guide.
Will I fall in the river? TOP
The majority of participants never take an unexpected swim. We do practice falling out and getting back into the raft. Plus we practice rescuing other team members and helping them back into our raft. With the unpredictable nature of whitewater there is always a chance you may fall in!
Can we go rafting in the rain? TOP
Yes, as you will be getting completely wet whether it is raining or not, rafting is a great activity to do in the rain.
If during extreme rainy weather, the river rises beyond acceptable levels we will move to a safer section of river. If the river rises beyond safe levels we will cancel the trip.
What should I bring? TOP
Please see the WHAT YOU NEED page.
What do I need to take on the river? TOP
Yourself. Just your swimwear and footwear. While rafting you will get completely wet, please do not bring cellphones, wallets/ purses, money, cameras, towels, tissues etc on the boat.
What about tipping? TOP
The complete trip is included in the price so we do not expect you to tip.
If you thought your rafting guide did an exceptional job and you had a great time, you are welcome to show your appreciation with a tip but only if you would like.
How can I join the Adventure Spirit team? TOP
Experienced rafting guides with outstanding personal skills and relevent qualifcations, RAJ, First aid, CPR, Swiftwater Rescue etc please send your resume for casual work, mostly on weekends.
We also train several responsible, outgoing, hardworking individuals every year. Please contact us if you are interested in becoming a rafting guide.
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