Glossary

River Classes

There are 6 Classes of river according to the American Whitewater Affiliation.

• Class 1 – It’s a lake!
  Basically flat water with some small waves.
• Class 2 – It’s easy!
  The easiest rapids are found under this classification.
• Class 3 – It’s tons of fun!
  These are moderately hard rapids requiring some maneuvering.
• Class 4 – That’s a lot of work!
  Scouting and skilful maneuvering required.
• Class 5 – I’m hanging on!
  Extremely difficult and requires complicated maneuvering with safety issues.
• Class 6 – You don’t want to go there!

Paddling Terms

Here’s the terms that are used at Otter Rafting Adventures.

• DIG! - Forward paddle.
• BACK! - Back paddle.
• HOLD! - Hold paddle still in water.
• REST! - We know it’s not an actual stroke – but get used to it.
• DUCK! - Ditto.

A thorough instruction on how to use these commands is given by your guide before your adventure begins.