FAQs
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Which trip is right for me / my family / my group?
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Will there be a guide in my raft?
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What happens if I fall out of the raft?
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Will I get wet?
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Will we have to paddle?
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Do I need to have previous experience?
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Do I need to be physically fit?
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What is a duck?
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Do I need to make a reservation?
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What is the minimum/maximum age?
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What is the minimum/maximum weight?
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What happens if there is bad weather?
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What if I have to cancel my trip?
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Will photos be taken of my trip?
Which trip is right for me / my family / my group?
A: At Blue Heron Whitewater we offer three trips on the French Broad River. The shortest trip is the half-day trip. The rapids included on this trip are class I-III. This is a great trip if you have something else you'd like to do during your visit to the area. The half day with lunch trip does the same section of river and stops for lunch along the way. This trip will also allow you time to go for a hike or go horseback riding or visit the Hot Springs in the afternoon. If this is your first time rafting, both the half day and half day with lunch are great first timer trips.
Will there be a guide in my raft?
A: If you want a guide in your raft you will have a guide in your raft. Different water levels allow for different boat chioices. If you want to try out a duck or a self guided raft we'll be happy to make it happen for you. Water level permitting.
What happens if I fall out of the raft?
A: You will get wet! Before the trip we'll discuss what to do if you fall out of the raft or duck.
A: Getting wet is definately part of the rafting experience. If you want to get really wet or are happy to stay more dry just let your guide know.
A:We use paddle rafts and ducks, and in our view a big part of the fun is the participation of everyone in the boat. If you are hoping not to paddle too much you can speak with your guide. If you choose to paddle in a duck then you will likely do more paddling than those in a raft.
Do I need to have previous experience?
A: We don't expect that you have any rafting or paddling experience.
Do I need to be physically fit?
A: Rafting in an outdoor, physical experience and a reasonable level of fitness is needed. You don't need to be a marathon runner!
A: A duck is a single person inflatable kayak. They are much smaller than rafts and are a great option for those who are looking for some more adventure in their trip. There is no extra charge for ducks.
Do I need to make reservations?
A: The larger your group the more advance reservations are a good idea. We will always do our best to accomadate everyone but the only way to be sure to get the day and the trip you want is to make a reservation.
What is the minimum / maximum age?
A: The minimum age for the calm water float trip is four years old. The minimum age for all other trips is eight. There is no maximum age. A basic level of fitness is required.
What is the minimum / maximum weight?
A: There is not a minimum weight for any of our trips. There is not a maximum weight but everyone must be able to fit into our biggest PFD (personal floatation device (life jacket)).
What happens if there is bad weather?
A: If we hit bad weather while on the river we will generally try to keep moving down the river as quickly as we can. In the rare cases of extremly bad weather we may pull over to the bank and wait. Occasionally we might postpone the start of a trip to wait for the weather to improve. Normal rainfall is not considered bad weather.
Will photos be taken of my trip?
A: Yes! If you would like a group shot or have any other special requests please let us know when you make your reservation, or speak with your trip leader.
What if I have to cancel my trip?
A: Cancellation Policies - If you have to cancel 5 or more days before your trip date you will get a 100% refund. If you have to cancel 5 to 2 days before your trip you can choose between either a 50% refund or a voucher good for 100% of your trip price. If you have to cancel the day before or the day of your trip there will be no refund.