Prague White Water Centre

Rafting FAQ

Some of the most frequently asked questions concerning rafting

 

What is River Difficulty Ratings?

Rivers are rated using roman numerals I to VI. I is easy, VI unrunnable, and V the limit of sane rafting (see. the International Scale of River Difficulty- chart below). A plus sign (+) after a rating indicates there may be one or more rapids with difficulty slightly above the level indicated, while a "P" after the rating indicates there is a portage. By the way Trojan´s slalom course is rated from WWIII. to IV.

the International Scale of River Difficulty

WW I - Easy Waves small, passages clear; no serious obstacles.
WW II - Medium Rapids of moderate difficulty with passages clear. Suitable for everyone.
WW III - Moderate Waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks; eddies; rapids with passages clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering.
WW IV - Difficult Long rapids; waves powerful, irregular; dangerous rocks; boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required.
WW V - Extremely Difficult Exceedingly difficult, long and violent rapids, following each other almost without interruption; riverbed extremely obstructed; big drops; violent currents; very steep gradient. Paddlers should have prior Class IV or better whitewater experience.
WW VI - Unrunnable Just like it says - Don't even think about it!
Portage Boats must be carried along the river bank in order to circumvent an unrunnable stretch of river.

 

Is rafting dangerous?

Rafting is thrilling, exciting, wet, wild and unbelievably fun. However, as in all adventure sports, there is an inherent risk involved. That risk contributes to the excitement, and is one of the reasons people enjoy it so much. Our guides are trained to minimize risks, and, statistically, you're safer on a raft than in your car. One state government found in an investigation that the injury rate for whitewater rafting is similar to that for bowling! But still, there is a risk, and you must accept that risk when you go on the river. By the way, rafting on our slalom course is a lot more safer than the rafting on wild river. Firstly the slalom course is manmade so that there are no hidden dangerous. Secondly all the artificial course is quite shallow, is on average 1.1m deep. Thirdly all the time there are a lot of people around who will help you if something happened. And finally we can stop the water which flows into and empty the course.

 

How fit should I be to go rafting? Is it strenuous?

You will have a paddle in your hands, and will be paddling. You should be reasonably healthy, and must be able to fit into the buoyancy vests supplied by the outfitter. Paddling can be tiring, but guides will instruct you on paddling technique. If you're in doubt about your ability to go rafting, or your fitness, check with your doctor before you go.

 

What clothes do I have to bring?

The very dress you should bring yourself is swimsuit. We will lend you the rest of water gear. The rent for gear is included in price. According to your wish we will provide you long or short neopren, waterproof jacket, helmet, neopren shoes, lifejacket.

 

I've never been rafting before.

You have no experience with rafting? It doesn´t matter because our guides will instruct you on behavior and will advise you what to beware on. Moreover rafting on slalom course is much more safer than trips on wild river. (see more Is rafting dangerous? )

 

I have a family with young children. Can they go rafting?

You have to realize that altough rafting in White Water Centre is adjusted nearly for everyone, there is quite high chance you will get into water at least once. Therefore is necessary your children would be able to swim.

 

What happens on a typical rafting in White Water Centre?

You'll meet the leader at boathouse. He or she will collect your release forms and guides will distribute wet suits and another gear. Then you will go to the changing room. After you dress up you´ll be divided into rafts. The rafts typically seat 4 to 6 people and a guide. He´ll inform you about how to be safe on the water and will give you further instruction on how to paddle, and how to follow his or her commands. Then you'll go down the river, and have the time of your life! Two hours later you will be finished with rafting. You will be led into the changing room, where you will change your clothes and if you aren´t fed up with water you can take a shower.

 

What are my chances of falling out of the boat? What should I do if I do?

Believe it or not, many people love falling out of the boat. It's exciting. But it can be disorienting a little at first. It's a part of rafting. Before you go on rafting, you'll be given extensive instructions on what to do if you fall in, and how to stay safe. Follow you're guide's instructions, and your "swim" could be the most exciting part of your rafting!