By Eva Best

Your Canoe Raft Building Questions, Answered

Hey folks! We get asked lots of questions about our canoe raft building activity, so to make things super easy for you, we’ve put this super handy article together. 

What is Canoe Raft Building?

Your three hour session will include initial team challenges which will earn you the materials that make up your raft, such as planks and ropes. Then once you’ve built your raft you’ll head out onto the river and take part in a variety of group challenges or exploration of the river in your unique craft.

What are your height and weight limits?

Our minimum age requirement for canoe raft building is 8 years, and we don’t have a maximum just as long as the person is healthy enough to participate. When it comes to weight, our canoes can hold up to 500 kilos so weight is usually never an issue.

How many people can fit in a canoe raft?

One raft, which consists of two canoes, would fit 6 to 8 people.

Will there be an instructor in our boat?

One of our expert instructors will be paddling alongside your rafts in their own boat, providing guidance and tips along the way.

Will I need experience to join a canoe raft build session?

You do not need any experience to join us on the water as our canoe raft build sessions are taster sessions so they are suited towards beginners.

Is there parking, toilets and changing facilities?

Canoe raft building happens at our Baileys Hard site with free parking, but parking is limited so car sharing is advised where possible. There are also toilets and changing facilities on site.

Are there places to get food and drink on site?

We have a small honesty cafe on site where you can purchase teas and coffees and we also have water fountains for water top ups if needed.

What do I need to bring with me and do you provide wetsuits?

You won’t need a wetsuit as we provide all equipment needed for your canoe raft activity with us including buoyancy aids, so no need to worry about bringing any. Just make sure you’re dressed for the weather! For when it’s hot, we recommend wearing shorts, a t-shirt and a hat to protect you from the sun. A bottle of water and some sunscreen is also advised. For when it’s cold, you’re going to want to layer up, with a waterproof jacket, trousers, hat and gloves to keep yourself warm on the water.

Will the boat capsize and get me wet?

Your canoe rafts are very sturdy and unlikely to capsize but due to the nature of the session you may get a bit wet, so do keep this in mind. A spare change of clothes for afterwards is recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad and I want to cancel?

Our activities go ahead in almost all weathers and we’re experts at maximising the fun, even in the rain! If we are made aware that you wish to cancel your booking within 48 hours of your activity you will lose your payment and we will be unable to rebook you. If we are given 7-days notice, we can offer a full refund or credit. Between those times, 50% credit will be offered. Upon booking, you can opt to pay our optional Poor Weather Insurance. This enables you to cancel your activity up until 5pm the day before and you’ll be eligible to move dates or receive a full refund. Our ‘Poor Weather Insurance’ fee is £2.50 per person. This is only available at the time of the booking and not applicable to same day bookings. We always cancel sessions and rebook or refund customers for no charge if we deem weather conditions to be unsafe.

And that’s it guys! We can’t wait to welcome you for some fun on the water. If you have any other questions that we haven’t touched on or would like to inquire, please contact our friendly office team on 01590 612377.