White Water Rafting

White Water Rafting is pretty much what you'd expect from the title: using a raft to navigate down a river, and the white water alludes to the fast-flowing water, used to add an element of thrill and excitment to the adventure! Although the ferocity of the water can make whitewater rafting an extreme sport, rafting need not be too scary, and some courses are suitable for children under 12. Rafts normally hold between 4-12 people who have to paddle to help steer the boat through deep pools and shallows and on to the calmer streams of the water.

Water is classified into 6 classes. Class 1 is for beginners who do not need any specific skills, although small areas may be difficult but no special manoeuvring is required. Classes then get progressively harder with each class incorpoorating new skills. You are unlikely to reach class 4 and above at an amatuer level and level 6 is so advanced that only professionals dare attempt it.

There are experienced guides but even with this added security, Water Rafting can be dangerous. The UK does have several low-class rivers suitable for rafting for children and beginners so there is plenty opportunities for the family to enjoy this exhilarating and enjoyable experience.

There are some Family friendly rafting arenas throughout the country. Click on a location below to find out more:

• Perthshire
• Northampton

For more information regarding the sport of White Water rafting, visit the British Canoe Union at www.bcu.org.uk