Motor Boat
(Approximate
length 34 to 38 feet) |
The simple, stable design of the motorized rafts makes them ideal for river running in the Grand Canyon. The illustration below provides a typical example of the various design types used on the river today. These boats are capable of transporting all of the food and supplies needed for the entire trip. The design makes it possible to safely run the very same formidable rapids that Major Powell was forced to portage around in 1869. Because of its' successful design, this type of craft has also been used to explore many of the world's other great rivers, including the Amazon, Zaire, Columbia, McKenzie, Frazier, Niagara, Yukon, and Mississippi.
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Oar
Boat
(Approximate length 18 feet)
The oar rig is the primary non-motorized watercraft used on Grand Canyon river trips. Its basic design is illustrated below: a rubber inflatable raft stabilized with a metal frame rowed and maneuvered by a guide using oars. A group of four to six oar rigs usually comprise a trip. These boats carry all the necessary supplies, gear, and passengers for an entire trip.
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Paddle
Boat
(Approximate length 14 to 16 feet)
The paddle boat has the same general construction as the oar rig. It can be "rigged" with or without a metal frame. Paddle boats are powered by you and your fellow passengers, who comprise a paddle team. The maneuvering strategy is in the hands of the paddle captain (your guide) who trains the team and calls out commands as necessary. Paddling is a high energy experience with an added element of adventure since you do not hold on through the rapids but have to keep paddling. There is usually one paddle boat on a hybrid trip and some companies run all-paddle trips. |
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Dory
(Approximate
length 18 feet)
The dory used in the Grand Canyon today comes from a modified fishing dory design tailored for heavy whitewater use. They are hard-shelled boats of great beauty and grace that offer a lively ride. Dories are rowed by a guide and carry four passengers: two up front and two in the back. |
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Inflatable
Kayak
(Approximate
length 10 to 14 feet)
Also called "duckies," inflatable kayaks are available on some trips for enjoyment in calm water and in some of the rapids depending on a person’s capability. Plan to get intimate with the cold Colorado River water in these boats. |
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