1) What is whitewater rafting?
2) What are the different classes of rapids?
3) What do I need to wear for whitewater rafting?
4) Do I need any experience to go whitewater rafting?
5) Are there age restrictions for whitewater rafting?
6) Do I need to know how to swim to go whitewater rafting?
7) What kind of equipment is provided on a whitewater rafting trip?
8) How long does a typical whitewater rafting trip last?
9) Is whitewater rafting safe?
10) What can I bring on a whitewater rafting trip?
11) Can I bring a camera or phone on the raft?
12) Are there different levels of whitewater rafting trips?
13) What is the best season for whitewater rafting?
14) Is tipping the rafting guides customary?
15) Can I go whitewater rafting if I have a medical condition or disability?
Whitewater rafting is one of our very favourite things to do!
After 42+ years of introducing folks to the world-class whitewater of the Ottawa River, we consider ourselves specialists in the matter. Here are some common questions we receive about OWL Rafting whitewater trips:
1.What is whitewater rafting?
Whitewater rafting is a recreational activity in which a group of individuals board a large inflatable raft that can hold up to 12 people and paddles down a river with rapids and turbulent water. It’s an exciting and adventurous water sport that’s enjoyed by families, friends, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and corporate team building groups!
2. What are the different classes of rapids?
Whitewater rapids are classified on a scale from I to VI, with Class I being the least difficult to navigate and Class VI being extremely risky (and unnavigable). Most commercial rafting trips focus on Class II to Class IV rapids.
The Ottawa River rapids are rated as Class I to V. Although it has some more extreme rapids, it’s world-renowned for its big waters. The depth of the river (meaning less rocks) and large pools downstream make this a friendly river for whitewater kayakers, canoeists and rafters alike. Additionally, its warm summer temperatures and epic surfing waves make for a perfectly exciting day on this picturesque Canadian river!
3.What do I need to wear for whitewater rafting?
Appropriate clothes to wear rafting includes a swimsuit or moisture-wicking synthetic clothing, a wetsuit (if the water is cold), and secure footwear like water shoes, running shoes, sandals with a backstrap (no flip flops or Crocs), or neoprene booties. On days that are really hot, it’s recommended to also bring sunscreen, a buff or bandana, and a sun shirt. On cold days, consider wool layers! Cotton materials are not recommended as once they get wet, it uses your body’s heat to dry, leaving you very cold. For more recommendations, check out our ‘Plan Your Visit’ page.
4. Do I need any experience to go whitewater rafting?
No experience is required to whitewater rafting with us. For first-time rafters we offer 2 lower intensity trips that are the perfect introduction to whitewater: Soft Adventure Rafting & Adventure Rafting. Our experienced whitewater guides will provide necessary safety gear, instructions, and paddle training at the beginning of your trip!
5. Are there age restrictions for whitewater rafting?
Age restrictions can vary by company and river, but our trips do not have any age restrictions – only minimum weight restrictions as per the life jacket regulations from Transport Canada. Our Soft Adventure Rafting trips require that all participants be at least 50lbs (23kg), while our Adventure Rafting and Sport Rafting trips require all participants to be at least 90lbs (41kg). This helps us ensure that all our safety gear is effective on the river!
6. Do I need to know how to swim to go whitewater rafting?
While it can be helpful to know how to swim, it’s not a requirement at OWL Rafting. Every rafter is equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, and guides are taught techniques to get everyone back in the boat should anyone end up in the water. Everyone is required to be OK with getting wet!
7. What kind of equipment is provided on a whitewater rafting trip?
We provide all of our rafting guests with life jackets, helmets, paddle, and of course, the rafts. We also offer wetsuits and splash jackets if the water is cold. You can purchase rafting appropriate shoes and other accessories in our on-site gift shop.
8. How long does a typical whitewater rafting trip last?
All of our whitewater rafting trips have a duration of 8 hours from the time you arrive on site to the time you leave. All of our day trips include a morning briefing, shuttle to the river put-in, rafting, snack and juice break, BBQ pontoon meal cruise, and a trip video. It’s a FULL day of epic fun!
9. Is whitewater rafting safe?
Risks are minimized on commercial whitewater rafting trips when conducted by experienced and safety-focused guides. They are trained in safety protocols and know the river conditions. However, there are inherent risks in any outdoor activity, so it’s important to follow the guide’s instructions and wear appropriate safety gear. At OWL Rafting, our biggest focus is your safety on and off the river.
10. What can I bring on a whitewater rafting trip?
You should bring essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle (with a carabiner), and any necessary medications. Be sure to check with your guide for specific recommendations on what to bring and what to leave behind.
11. Can I bring a camera or phone on the raft?
It is not generally recommended to bring a personal camera or phone on your rafting trip. Due to the adventurous nature of this activity, you should not bring anything on the trip that you are not prepared to lose. You must also consider potential water damage. The good news is that on every trip, a video boater will paddle alongside your crew to capture your entire experience. The video and photos will be available for viewing and purchase afterwards!
12. Are there different levels of whitewater rafting trips?
Yes, there are trips ranging from family-friendly floats to more challenging and adventurous runs. At OWL Rafting, we offer low intensity, medium intensity and high intensity trips for all skill and comfort levels. We want everyone to have the best experience possible!
13. What is the best season for whitewater rafting?
The best time for whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River is Spring and Summer due to snow melt and warmer water temperatures. The coolest thing about the Ottawa River is that the water levels are always changing, resulting in varying runnable rapids and river channels. You’ll never go on the same rafting trip twice!
14. Is tipping the rafting guides customary?
Tipping is a common practice in the outdoor industry. It’s always very appreciated if you had a positive experience. At OWL Rafting, we accept cash tips and e-transfers (you can send them to owltriptips at gmail.com). You may specify if a tip is for an individual crew member who made your experience special, otherwise the tip is shared with all of our staff!
15. Can I go whitewater rafting if I have a medical condition or disability?
If safety wasn’t a concern, we would opt to take everyone rafting! However, because the safety of guests is a top concern of ours, we urge those with medical conditions and disabilities to communicate their needs and concerns in advance. Just keep in mind that we aren’t medical professionals and may refer you to ask your doctor for medical advice.
Final Note: Remember that the answers to these questions listed above are specific to OWL Rafting. They may vary depending on the location and rafting company, so it’s essential to do your research and contact the company you plan to raft with to get the most accurate information for your trip. Please contact our office team if you have any further questions!
