Trust me Ive seen it all before. Crying guests, scared rafters and the myriad of jitters in between. But relax most likely youyes the scared little knees-shaking lifejacket-wearing individualwill be the one who at the end of the day wants to go bigger, swim the next rapid and try guiding the boat.

Rafting takes a certain amount of blind faith. There is no guarantee that everything will work out. Think of it like the first day of high school. There are rumors that freshman get beat up but most likely on the last day of Senior year the first day four years ago will make you laugh. You dont necessarily know what to expect and if you do fall out of the boat the prospect of being in the water smashing against a few rocks is petrifying. But take a second and step back from the fear gripping your rational. Hundreds of thousands raft each year and most come back to do it again. So there is something there it just might be a bit harder to find for you.

First and foremost you will be wearing a life jacket, which does keep you afloat even in the most turbulent of waters. Type Three Coast Guard rated jackets will include a head rest to keep your neck above water even if you are knocked out. It might take a second for the life jacket to turn on and find the surface but swimming or no swimming its going to keep you safe.

Secondly being scared of water is perfectly normal. Most times guides will work with guests who are apprehensive building their confidence over time. I know that if I get someone who is a bit nervous about being in the water Ill opt to hop out with them or sit them in the safest seat (really dont believe the guide here there really isnt any) but that boost of confidence is all thats really needed most of the time.

Take some time and research the trip and what you will be doing. Most outfitters have websites with detailed information on what to expect and how to prepare. If you are really worried dont hesitate to give them a call and get their advice. Many times the outfitter I work for has talked to guests multiple times before the trip about everything from sunscreen to deli meat being served.

Finally dont freak yourself out too much. This is about having fun and enjoying life in a new way. Take a second and relax, talk to the guide before hand during the safety check and remember that most of the guides antics are a show. They are there in reality to get you down safely and without injury. Most of all just have fun and enjoy the day. A good trip can lead to a lifetime of passion and the need for bigger faster stronger water.