Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you cruise along the stunning River Wharfe which runs through the town of Ilkley. The Wharfe is one of the biggest and most exciting rivers in Britain and runs from the heart of the Yorkshire Dales down through Wharfedale towards York and the North Sea. During summer the river is relatively mild, however during wintertime the river has an enormous flow to it so must be treated with caution and respect.
The Format:
Each group will be kitted up in full safety gear and briefed by an experienced instructor at the beginning of the session.
The group will then be split into teams and each team then has to construct their raft out of the materials supplied. The maximum number of people in each team is 6, and each team will be given 4 barrels, 6 poles, 10 pieces of rope and some string! Three teams can participate in this activity at the one time, making the maximum number of participants 18.
Next it’s time to test the seaworthiness of your vessel as you take to the river and raft down to a set of stepping stones. The journey last for approximately 1 hour, covers a total of 2.38 km and promises to be a wet and wild ride!
After the water rafting groups will stop off at a secluded beach on the side of the river, park the rafts and walk round to a large suspension bridge. Depending on weather and safety conditions, people will have the opportunity to take turns jumping 20ft from the bridge and back into the drink below!
Duration:
Approximately 3.5 hours. Most groups tend to start at 1pm and run through until about 4:30pm. However, the instructors are extremely accommodating and flexible, and as such timings can be altered.
Notes:
- All safety equipment is included (wetsuits, helmets and buoyancy aids.)
- In cold weather people can borrow fleeces and waterproof jackets.
- Each team also gets a big waterpistol!
- Most groups meet in the park in Ilkley. There is a pub, a chippy and public toilets at the meeting point.