What Size Raft Do I Need?

With all the rafts out on the market today it can be a little overwhelming deciding what size raft you will need. When it comes to rafts there is no one size fits all; one type of raft may work great for a short trip with a small group, but you will struggle on those longer trips. Rafting addicts tend to collect a “quiver” of boats so they have something better suited for different types of trips. The goal is to get a boat that is excellent for the type of rafting you will be doing the most and that will also work at least adequately well for other trips.

There are a number of important questions that you need to ask yourself when deciding what size raft you will need. Below is a list of important questions to consider before deciding on what size raft will be best for your needs.

1. How will I be using this boat?
2. How often will I be using this boat?
3. Where will I be using this boat?
4. How many passengers will be aboard?
5. How long of trips will I be going on?

After asking some of these questions and coming up with the answers it becomes much easier to narrow down what size raft would best suit you. Below is a list of considerations to also keep in mind.

1. The larger the boat the more people and gear you can carry. These boats will be great for multi-day trips.
2. The smaller the boat the more maneuverable it will be and will make paddling whitewater that much more exciting.
3. A wider raft will be more stable on whitewater, however, a narrower raft will fit through rocky areas much better.
4. For day trips a 12-13 foot raft will be comfortable for a MAX of 5-6 people and a 14-16 foot will work well for groups of 7-8 people.
5. For multiday trips you will be taking just about the same amount of gear as you would on an overnight trip. The biggest difference will be in the amount of food and water that you will need.

Hopefully you now have a little better of an idea of what size raft is best for what situation. If you have any other questions on what size raft would be best for your needs or are looking to rent a raft for that trip this summer be sure to give us a call!