In 1811 was the first attempt to float into the Snake River of Wyoming. In 1840 it is believed that the first rubber raft was invented. Since 1970 this activity began to spread rapidly and it was included in the Munich Olympics and the Games of Barcelona, the Olympic Games of Atlanta 1996, thus creating the need for an International Rafting Federation in 1997 and in 1999 it was organized the first international championship of Rafting.

 

In essence, it is all about descending a river through Rafting on an inflatable boat powered by oars. The current of the river is what determines its course while the oars are used to obstacle avoidance. Raftingis a very social sport that brings humans into contact with the unspoiled natural environment, while they keep exercised and amused. It is beneficial for all people and does not require any special knowledge or training, beyond the instructions that will be given of the escort. The floating boat accommodates between 2-8 persons plus a guide.

 

RAFTING GRADES :

 

Grade 1: Very small rough areas, might require slight maneuvering. (Skill level: very basic)
Grade 2: Some rough water, maybe some rocks, might require some maneuvering. (Skill level: basic paddling skill)
Grade 3: Whitewater, small waves, maybe a small drop, but no considerable danger. May require significant maneuvering. (Skill level: experienced paddling skills)
Grade 4: Whitewater, medium waves, maybe rocks, maybe a considerable drop, sharp maneuvers may be needed. (Skill level: whitewater experience)
Grade 5: Whitewater, large waves, large volume, possibility of large rocks and hazards, possibility of a large drop, requires precise maneuvering. (Skill level: advanced whitewater experience)
Grade 6: Class 6 rapids are considered to be so dangerous that they are effectively unnavigable on a reliably safe basis. Rafters can expect to encounter substantial whitewater, huge waves, huge rocks and hazards, and/or substantial drops that will impart severe impacts beyond the structural capacities and impact ratings of almost all Rafting equipment.

 

Traversing a Class 6 rapid has a dramatically increased likelihood of ending in serious injury or death compared to lesser classes. (Skill level: successful completion of a Class 6 rapid without serious injury or death is widely considered to be a matter of great luck or extreme skill and is considered by some as a suicidal venture)