Tips for Safe Rafting in Bali

Posted by Eko Prasetyo on 31st August, 2013

The Bali white water rafting is FUN, I remember it like it was yesterday, the day my teacher almost drowned while rafting in Bali on the Telaga Waja River.

This is the part of history from some other rafter.

The guide scrambled to his feet and yelled at everybody to “Paddle!!!” A hydraulic is hard enough to paddle through with all passengers, but with half your raft not in position, it was even worse.

The few who could paddle did. They got the raft out of the hydraulic, the teacher was still clinging to that yellow rope and he was whisked to the shore in two seconds.

He was cut, scraped and bleeding and he’d lost his glasses and a shoe . . . but he was OK.

So, want to go for a thrilling whitewater rafting ride? Here are some safety tips:

BE IN PADDLE SHAPE

Ask the staff (if they don’t offer) for tips on where to sit, where to put your feet, what side should you be on to most comfortably paddle, et cetera.

SUIT UP

You’re going to get wet, so wear something that can handle the water. Depending on when you go and how cold the water is, dress in shorts and a quick-dry top. When it comes to footwear, trade the flip-flops for water shoes or water-resistant hiking sandals. If it does seem too cold, rent a wetsuit.

GET THE RIGHT SIZE

Lifejackets and helmets are mandatory. The lifejacket has to fit snugly and securely and will probably have a crotch strap to keep it from riding up near your chin. If you’re a weak swimmer, tell your rafting guide. When it comes to helmets, the staff will make sure it fits securely.

PROPER POSTURE

Sitting on a raft is different. You can straddle the edge when paddling the flat water, your feet will be inside when hitting some waves and you’ll tuck down when riding the big waves. Listen to the guide and you’ll be great.

FACE PHOTOG

Ask the guide where the staff photographers will be so you can look at them for your photo-op when you’re riding the huge waves.

IF YOUR RAFT FLIPS

In high rapids you can flip and you may find yourself in different scenarios. Don’t panic and know that you’ll be fine. For example, if you fall out and the raft flips upside on you that means your head is above the water and you’re looking at the seats. There’s lots of air and just swim out from under the raft.

If you’re in the water and moving through rapids, point your feet downstream to protect you from any rocks, though you’ll usually be high above any rocks. If you can find grab something, do so, and hang on until the kayakers come to give you a lift back to the shore or to the raft.

SCREAM

It’s very therapeutic. The truth is you won’t be able to stop anyways. It’s a wet and wavy rollercoaster ride that’s a hoot. Your eyes will be huge, and because you’re right at water level, at times you’ll be thinking of tsunamis.

Bali White water rafting is a blast. Enjoy it, and after all the screaming, will come the laughter and the memories.

Last changed: 30th December, 2016 at 5:34 PM