Rafting huge class III or IV rapids may seem like a very dangerous way to have fun. And in some respects it is, but rafting holidays are very safe if you stick to the instructions your guide gives you. Plus, not all rafting holidays involve taking on high grade white water, with many gentler and more exploratory rafting adventures available. So, in answer to the question ‘who can go on rafting holidays?’ – the answer is more or less everybody.
Ok, so it might not be quite that simple. Each company is different and will have different insurance stipulations. And very small children and people with certain physical conditions might be precluded for safety reasons, but for the most part, whether you’re aged between six and 106, rafting holidays are generally suitable.
If high adrenaline rapids are not your thing, try asking about calmer rafting adventures where changing landscapes and the beauty of the river provide the thrill.
Age
As we’ve mentioned above, it is anyone of almost any age who can go on rafting holidays. The only possible exceptions are very small children under a certain age. In most cases, children can be accommodated in the middle of the boat, with some extra precautionary safety equipment (they are usually not allowed to paddle), but they will still get to experience the thrill of rafting.
Individual rafting companies might have different age and size restrictions so it is worth checking before booking that they can accommodate your little ones. There is no real upper age limit on rafting, provided you are able to meet some basic safety requirements, so don’t let age stop you.
If you’re looking for something a bit more serene, then try a rafting adventure on a calmer river. Many rafting trips are more about exploring inaccessible, wild and beautiful places than they are getting the heart racing. And these kinds of adventures are suitable for more or less anyone of any age.
Swimming ability
Although being able to swim is helpful (and a useful life skill and fitness tool) it is not essential on rafting holidays. You will be required to wear safety equipment, including a life jacket and helmet, so in the unlikely event you do get pitched in you should be fine. Even strong swimmers will find it hard to swim in stronger rapids, so listen to the advice of your guide about what to do in case it does happen. There will be a full safety briefing before you embark.
Disability and medical conditions
Rafting is a very inclusive sport that tries its best to let everyone join in. Rafting centres will try their hardest to accommodate anyone who wants to raft, even with those with physical disabilities. It’s worth asking your local rafting centre what provisions they have and if they can make special arrangements to accommodate you. Hopefully, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by their answer.
You should always inform the rafting centre if you have any existing medical conditions or allergies that may require special attention. This is standard safety procedure and while most will do all they can to accommodate you, it’s best to let them know beforehand so that contingencies can be put in place.
Other than the few exceptions mentioned above those who can go on rafting holidays actually includes most people – especially the calmer river rafting adventures. With an inclusive mentality and excellent safety record, in most cases, there is nothing stopping you from booking a rafting holiday. When you look at those who can go on rafting holidays and often do, there really is very little to stop you enjoying a rafting adventure.
