Powering Rafts

When many people think of rafting they think of just floating down a river on a raft. Most people usually do not think about how a raft is powered through slow moving water. They also do not consider how a rafter maneuvers the vessel around large obstacles that need to be avoided.

Rafts are typically powered by one of two ways. Many rafts are powered by oars that are used to paddle the craft through the water. These paddles are powered by the people who are on the raft. This is usually how smaller rafts are powered as typically only a few people are onboard. People who are on larger rafts that are powered by oars usually take turns doing the physical work and watching for hazardous obstacles.

Some rafts are powered by small engine type devices. These engines power a rudder like device. This device moves the raft through slow moving waters. It also helps the operator avoid obstacles that are too dangerous to go over or through. This is typically how the larger rafts are powered. It is also how many raft touring companies power their water vessels.

Catamaran style rafts have their own unique method of power. This type of raft is often powered with oars much like the other non motorized powered vessels. The main difference with this type of raft is the technique that is used to power the craft. Catamaran style rafts are powered with a rowing motion as opposed to a paddling motion. The techniques are actually quite similar with only a slight variation.

Typically people choose the raft that is most comfortable for them. Many people like to use rafts that are powered by the person manually powering the craft. Other people like to use motorized rafts. The choice is left up to individual in many circumstances. However, if you are renting a raft you will most likely be given one that requires manual work to power the vessel.