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Paddle Rafts, Oar Rafts & Kayaks

We use a variety of different types of rafts and raft configurations on our trips.  Guest comfort, safety considerations and trip efficiency combine to help us decide which rafts are appropriate for which trips. While half and one-day trips use only paddle rafts, you are likely to see a variety of rafts and configurations on most multi-day trips.  On a typcial multi-day trip we let guests decide which type of raft they want to be in (we don't assign seats).  We switch around a lot during the day, so you'll have the chance to try them all.  We do, however, give preference for the oar raft to folks who have difficulty paddling or may have physical limitations.

PADDLE RAFTS These rafts are from 12' to 14' in length and maneuvered by the paddling teamwork of six to seven guests led by a guide. The guide steers and navigates  from the back of the raft, giving paddlers instructions on when and how to paddle.

OAR RAFTS               OAR RAFTS These rafts are from 16' to 18' feet  in length and have a metal frame with a padded bench seat in front and oars attached at the middle. The guide is able to maneuver the raft from the center without the need for guests to paddle. Guests can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. These rafts are usually larger, heavier and considered more stable than a paddle raft. Space in the oar raft is typically reserved for folks who have difficulty paddling or are unable to sit in a paddle raft for extended periods of time.

OAR-ASSISTED PADDLE  RAFTS This type of raft is a combination of both an oar raft and a paddle raft.  Just like a paddle raft, up to six guests provide power by paddling as a team.  This raft, however, has a small frame in the back, which allows the guide to use a small set of oars. The guide steers and navigates from the back while instructing the paddlers. In an oar assisted paddle raft the guide generally has more control and maneuverabilty.

INFLATABLE KAYAKS These small inflatable crafts are manned by a single guest with a double-bladed paddle. Inflatable kayaks follow the larger rafts through the rapids with the guide in the paddle raft or oar raft giving instructions to the following kayakers. Inflatable kayaks (a.k.a. "I.K.s" or "Duckies") are a great way to experience the river in a one-on-one fashion.

ROGUE RIVER:  Oar Rafts, Paddle Rafts & Inflatable Kayaks LOWER SALMON RIVER: Oar Rafts, Oar-Assisted Paddle Rafts & Inflatable Kayaks DESCHUTES RIVER: Oar-Assisted Paddle Rafts (Paddle Rafts only on Day Trips)  MCKENZIE RIVER: Paddle Rafts NORTH UMPQUA RIVER: Paddle Rafts (Inflatable-kayak-only trips in late summer) JOHN DAY RIVER: Oar Rafts, Oar-Assisted Paddle Rafts & Inflatable Kayaks OWYHEE RIVER: Oar Rafts, Oar-Assisted Paddle Rafts & Inflatable Kayaks

A Little Trivia What's the difference between a "paddle" and an "oar"? A paddle is usually 4' to 5' long and used with two hands, such as in a canoe or kayak (a kayak uses a double-ended paddle). An oar is usually 9' to 11' long and requires an oar lock (or fulcrum) so that it can act like a lever against the water such as in a rowboat or Viking ship. A person paddles with a paddle and rows with an oar.