Today, many travel companies offer kayak rentals and river rafting for singles and groups. You will be able to overcome tens of kilometers across the reservoir, and along the way - go fishing, swim and cook food on a fire. However, we must not forget that river rafting is an extreme entertainment for which you need to carefully prepare. The success of the trip will depend on many factors - from weather conditions to personal preparation.
Rafting on kayaks is traditionally associated with sports, but the tourism business has long turned water trips into entertainment for everyone. Usually, only adults over 18 years of age are allowed to the places of rental of boats, and younger "water workers" must be accompanied by adults and have a doctor's clearance with them.
Soberly assess your own capabilities, because even on the calmest river you can expect a lot of thrills and unpredictable situations. Rafting in kayaks is not recommended for people with impaired cardiovascular system, weak nervous system, peptic ulcer and some other diseases. Meanwhile, even people with disabilities often successfully overcome rafting even on dangerous mountain rivers.
In order for the hike to be successful, the main task of any beginner is to choose an experienced instructor with a good reputation and not to go down the river without him. Throughout the entire rafting, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the advice of a specialist. Any self-respecting travel company, before the debut of the "vodnik", will voice the rules of conduct on a water trip and give its client a signature that he has attended a lecture on safety.
In the process of kayaking, the task of the team is to keep the light ship on the move at all costs and not allow it to roll over. Before the swim, it is recommended to inquire about the speed of the river you are going to travel along. In addition, check the water temperature, weather forecast, get all information about existing shallows and other difficult sections of the route.
Familiarize yourself with the rules of kayak driving. An instructor should help you choose a boat, taking into account your goals: active extreme for 2-3 people or family entertainment. The craft should be sufficiently comfortable and maneuverable, as well as easy to transport.
Trust only reliable manufacturers whose products have become branded. For example, the most popular among experienced water travelers are the Svir-K frame kayaks, the Severyanka-42 and Waterfly-2 inflatable boats; frame-inflatable models "Svir-N", "Vuoksa" and "Ladoga".
Stock up on the necessary equipment. As a rule, kayak rentals offer additional life jackets and safety helmets. Do not neglect these means, even if this is not the first time you are rafting! In addition, for a long overnight hike, you will need a tent, rug and sleeping bag.
Bring footwear and clothing for the river and land. Be sure to seal money, documents and other valuables in polyethylene. Do not forget that the most important condition for the success of a water trip will be your concentration and ability to work in a team.