Is rafting dangerous?

Rafting is thrilling, exciting, wet, wild and unbelievably fun. However, as with all adventure sports, there is inherent risk involved. That risk contributes to the excitement, and is one of the reasons people enjoy rafting so much. The professionals working for Ace Paddlers are trained to minimize and manage risks, and, statistically, you're safer in a raft than in your car. The most injuries on most rafting trips occur on land, especially getting into and out of the boats.

If I can't swim, can I still go rafting?

Everyone on commercial rafting trips wears a approved life vest or personal flotation device (PFD). This critical piece of equipment will keep you afloat in the event that you find yourself in the river. Many non-swimmers go on Ace Paddlers’s rafting trips, and they have a great time. Your guide will give you an in depth safety talk before your trip explaining what you should prepare for and do in the event you fall out of the raft. Your guide is professionally trained in whitewater rescue and will work with the rest of your guide team to ensure that you are able to feel comfortable with the whitewater conditions on your trip. All non-swimmers should talk to their outfitter when considering a Class IV+ or Class V trip.

How fit should I be to go rafting?

On Ace Paddlers rafting trips paddle boats are used. This means that guests will be an active source of power to move the boat through the rapids and you will need to learn commands from your guides to help maneuver the boat as it moves downstream. You should be reasonably healthy, and must be able to fit into the life vests supplied by AcePaddlers. Paddling can sometimes be tiring, but your guides will instruct you on paddling techniques which are lots of fun to learn. If you're in doubt about your fitness to go rafting, check with your doctor before you go.

What should I wear on the river?

Luckily…this is not a fashion contest! Your gear will depend on the time of year, water temperature, and weather for your trip. Ask us for gear recommendations before your trip. As a rule of thumb we recommend you dress for the water temperature, rather than the air temperature, since you'll be getting wet. You might also bring some synthetic fleece, polypro, capilene, or wool garments. Don't wear cotton because when it becomes wet, it will just make you colder. An old pair of tennis shoes, running shoes, or even Converse hi-tops are the best on the river. Wetsuit booties are good if it is cold. Sandals don't offer as much protection, and tend to come off easily in a swim. Sunglasses, especially prescription glasses, should have a croakie or other retainer that cinches tight. Since south Indian rivers have warmer water, shorts and a T-shirt are good.

Which trips are best for me?

If you are just learning to raft, start off with a Class II or III, or an easy Class IV rafting trip. Many rafters who are confident in the water, healthy, and feel adventurous, drop right into a Class IV river without prior experience. Guides will make sure you are trained in safety and paddle techniques.

I have a family with young children, can they go rafting?

Many companies have special family trips available, on which you can take children as young as four. Each particular river trip and company has its own suggested age limits.We do take the children of age group of 12 years and above on rivers.

I am a senior citizen, can I go rafting?

For fit, active seniors over 65 we recommend, as a first step, a class II paddleboat or oar boat trip. Depending on how this feels to you, you might want to try paddling a Class III river. Many healthy people of all ages, including spry folks in their 70's and 80's enjoy rafting at all levels.

What happens on a typical rafting trip?

Your trip begins when you meet the trip leader at your designated rendezvous place and time. He or she will collect your release forms fill it duly signed with relevant medical information and hand it over to Ace Paddlers. Then everyone moves to the “put in” where rafts await you in the river. At the put in, the trip leader will give you a safety talk - a vital 20 to 30 minute discussion about how to be safe on the water. Then you'll head to your boat and jump in! Paddleboats typically seat six to eight people and a guide. On a paddleboat, the guide will give you further instruction on how to paddle once you are afloat and give you time to practice following his or her commands. Then you'll head on down the river, and have the time of your life!

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

Plan "A" is always to stay in the boat, but believe it or not, many people love falling out of the boat. It's exciting. But it can be disorienting and a little overwhelming at first. Many people have taken multiple trips and never fallen in. Some people swim on their first trip. It's all a part of rafting. Before you go on any trip, you'll be given extensive instructions on what to do if you fall in, and how to stay safe. Follow your guide's instructions, and your "swim" could be the most exciting part of your trip and a great story to tell your friends afterwards!

Can I bring my camera or video camera?

We don't recommend bringing video cameras, or even expensive still cameras, on trips. Many people bring disposable waterproof cameras, which work just fine. The quality of the pictures is reasonably good, and if you lose your disposable camera, it's not the end of the world. If you do choose to bring a more expensive camera, you can protect it waterproof cases available in the retail market that fit many shapes and sizes of camera. Many river trips also have professional photographers riverside, whose photos you can view and order after the trip.

Should I tip my guide?

Tipping is certainly appreciated by the guides, who work hard to make sure you have a fun, yet safe trip. If you feel your guide has done a good job, keeping you entertained, and sharing the wonderful river environment with you, then feel free to show your appreciation.

How to Prepare for Your Rafting Trip

Ace Paddlers is committed to providing you with the highest quality, most enjoyable outdoor experience possible. This planning page intends to help you prepare for your upcoming white water rafting trip.  Please share this information with everyone in your party and get ready for fun!

What to Bring/Wear

Ace Paddlers provides the following White Water Gear:
- Paddle
- Personal Floatation Device (PFD)
- Helmet

What You Should Wear Rafting:

- Swim Trunks/Swimsuit
- Water Shoes or Old Sneakers
- T-shirt and Shorts
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with a Strap
- No Sarees please

Don't Forget to Bring:

- A Change of Clothes and Shoes
- Towels for Everyone
- Concern for nature and Good sense of humor.

Give Every Driver in Your Group:

- Directions to the Camp site.
- Check-in Time (arrive half an hour before trip time)
- Reservation Name and Number
- AcePaddlers Camp Site Phone Numbers (0-9341433991 / 0 / 5 )

Leave Behind:

- Jewelry and Watches
- Electronics(boom boxes, ipod etc.,)
- Heavy Cotton Clothing like ----
- Jeans/Sweatshirts(these dry slowly and provide no warmth)
- Flip Flops. Sandals MUST have a heel strap.
- One’s Ego.

Ace Paddlers Adventure trip Photos

On most of river trips, a professional photographer captures all the white water rafting action. You can view and purchase photos after your trip, but we do not promise to take photos on every trip, if you are looking for the same please check with us and get confirmed.

About Your Responsibilities

AcePaddlers makes every effort to run a quality trip, including instruction before and during each trip. It is your responsibility to follow these instructions. You will help paddle on any trip you choose. It is your responsibility to evaluate your level of fitness and to select a trip which is appropriate. Seek medical advice if you are pregnant, significantly overweight or in poor physical condition.