Differentiating Paddle And Motorized Rafting Trips

When you go whitewater rafting you will be given two choices for transportation along the river: You can take rafting trips that are powered either by an outboard motor or by paddles/oars on a non-motor raft which includes Oar, Dory, Paddle rafts. There is a perfect trip for everyone and while some prefer motorized rafting trips, other’s ideal trip would be a non-motor trip.

Motorized rafting trips can travel faster. Many whitewater river vacationers take a motorized rafting trips when they want to see as much of the river as possible, in a shorter amount of time, 3-8 days. For example, to navigate the entire 280-mile length of the Grand Canyon portion of the great Colorado River, all you need is 6-8 days in a motor raft trip. 

 

Some Things You Need To Know About Motorized Rafting Trips

The safest of all raft types these large vessels carry 12-14 passengers comfortably, 2 of whom will be your whitewater river guides. If you are the type of individual who prefers a sense of security while on river, then motorized rafting trips are the way to go. Many comfortable seating options  offer the perfect opportunity to meet new people and socialize during calmer waters between rapids. The motorized whitewater rafting trips are actually the most popular trip option chosen by more rafters annually over any other raft type.

Motorized rafting trips are perfect for larger groups who would like to take in as much of the scenery of the Grand Canyon as they possibly can. Since it is motorized, their focus will be on the scenery and the many frequent stops along the way rather then navigating rapids or paddling the raft. Perfect for families who want an exciting adventure, less then 8 days in length. Keep in mind that if you have a child, there is a minimum age requirement of 8 years for these trips.

Paddle-powered rafting trips are for those who would like to really experience navigating through some of the river’s roughest waters. Paddle-powered rafts are much smaller than motorized rafts and as such can hold only up to six to eight individuals at a time, including the river guide. This makes for a perfect test of your physical strength and mental alertness as you have to work with the rest of the team to safely navigate your craft through rough waters. Your guide directs you, so no previous rafting in necessary however outfitters recommend only those physically capable of paddling for multiple days in a row, to opt for a paddle raft trip.  Other non-motor options include Oar or Dory trips as well as Hybrid raft trips which is a combination of Oar rafts (rowed by the guide) and a Paddle raft to be used on rotation among passengers. This way you can take a break in a Oar raft and not be committed to paddling every day of your trip. 

The fact that non-motor powered rafting trips cruise at the speed of the river (3-4 mph) is why they take twice as long as a motor raft trip (8-9 mph). The minimum age for non-motor trips is 12 for some options and up to 16 for others.

 

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How To Have the Best Grand Canyon Rafting Adventure Ever

When it comes to whitewater rafting adventures, nothing can come close to the fame and world-renowned reputation of the Grand Canyon. Sure, there are other whitewater river systems in the world, some offering vertical drops higher and obstacles much more dangerous than those in the Grand Canyon, but with its beautiful landscape crafted by Mother Nature herself, shooting the rapids of the Grand Canyon while immersing yourself in the beauty of the environment, eating deliciously prepare meals is simply the best adventure rafting you will ever have.

Here’s How You Can Ensure A Great Grand Canyon Rafting Adventure

Plan Well Ahead of Time

Know that there are limits to the number river permits granted to the outfitters as well as how many launches per day are allowed on the river so a great source to learn about trip availability is us here at Advantage Grand Canyon. We know all of the Grand Canyon whitewater rafting outfitters’ schedules and itineraries and can provide you with real time availability at no cost to you. Suffice it to say, you need to plan at least a month before you head out to the Grand Canyon but we often fit clients in on last minute trips.

Consider Your Time and Financial Resources

Although this is a bucket list type of trip and ideally one should never bound their dreams based on a price tag, the reality is that these trips are not inexpensive and planning in advance, setting up a budget is recommended. You can choose shorter trips like a 3 to 4-day raft adventures on either the Upper Canyon for the most inexpensive options but do note that these trips require a strenuous 9.5 mile hike ascending the bright angel trail at trip’s end.  This should also address your concern for time especially if you can only squeeze a week or two off your busy schedule to have the best adventure in your life. Of course, on the longer end there are 12-18 day trips available as well.

Choose Your Rafting Trip

You can choose the much shorter yet equally exciting adventure rafting trips for 3 to 5 days and more commonly booked trip of 6 to 9 days exploring the Upper Canyon or the Lower Canyon sections. For the ultimate adventure rafting in the Grand Canyon you have the option to choose a 12 to 18-day trip that covers between 188 to 280-miles. 

Ensuring the best Grand Canyon rafting adventure starts with planning your trip in relation to your resources. Simply ask us here at Advantage Grand Canyon to plan for you the best adventure rafting trip of your lifetime!

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