Introduction to Raft Building

The first step in building a water-worthy raft is to come up with the right design so this is the time to put your heads together and come up with some good ideas as a team. Carefully think about the requirements for your raft, taking into consideration the size of your group. What is the best design for the raft to move fast on the water, stay afloat and complete the course first?

The instructors will be on hand to discuss your design and offer some ideas and advice if needed.

This is the tough part of your raft building operation! Using rope, big barrels and wooden spars you need to build your design from scratch. Once you have everything in the right place you need to tie the raft together, ensuring it is strong enough to hold the whole team and be paddled through the set course.

Make sure to take your time here as any mistakes will cost you on the water!

Now is the time to see how your construction went!

Test the raft on the water to see if it is water worthy, if it is (and that’s not always the case!) then you are almost ready to attempt the course.

If you finish your build and test with enough time to spare then now is the moment to make some final adjustments such as to your rope tension. 

This is what it’s all been leading to, it’s time to see what your raft is really made of!

Complete  a course on the water in the fastest time while carrying all of your crew and kit! The instructor will set out the designated course for your team to complete and outline the rules and penalties that you must follow. The course should be completed with everyone on board and with all the kit intact. Good luck!