FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS For the Chilkat River Raft Trip 

We specialize in small groups.  Many  trips book out so make your reservation as soon as you have chosen a trip and date. We will confirm your trip, and send you a confirmation upon receipt of your deposit.

The weather in Southeast Alaska during the spring & summer months can vary in temperature.  Haines has the least amount of rain in all of Southeast.  It is always better to be prepared for the worst and hope for the best.  This is why you should layer your clothing for these excursions - so that you are prepared for anything - remember you can always take off a layer or two.  Synthetic fleece, poly-pro or wool tops keep you warmer and dryer than cotton.  This is not a white water trip, so you would not get wet from the river.   We will supply rain gear if needed.

3. Do we have to know how to swim to participate in a raft trip?

You do not have to swim to go rafting! Life jackets are worn at all times on the river and are designed to float you face up. The guides instruct you before the trip on what to do in the small chance (extremely unlikely on float trips) you fall in the river.

4. How big are the rapids?

All rivers are different. Rivers are rated on the International Scale of Whitewater I-VI. Class I is "moving water", Class II is "splashes", Class III is "wet and fun", Class IV is "big drops", Class V is "violent rapids", and Class VI is considered "unrunnable". Our float trips on the Chilkat River are Class I & II.  This is not a white water trip.

5. How deep is the river?

River depth changes constantly depending on the gradient and width of the river. Many parts of the Chilkat River are very shallow

6. Can we bring cameras or video cameras?

For the float trips on the  the Chilkat River cameras are an important part of your adventure, and we encourage you to remember your trip on film.  You may want to bring a plastic zip lock bag for your camera in the event of rain, or we will have dry bags where you can stow some for your gear.

7. Do we have to paddle?

There are different types of raft boats used for different situations. 

Oar framed boats allow the guide to use a pair of oars to control and move the raft. Sometimes customers paddle along with the guide according to his or her commands. Since the guide essentially has 100% control, guests may opt to to get involved and help paddle or simply just sit back and enjoy the scenery.

"Paddle" boats do not have the frame so participants and the guide all have a paddle. No experience is necessary. The guide will teach you how to do it as you go. 

In general, eagle watching trips on the Chilkat River are with framed boars where the guide uses oars and the passengers are thus able to take in the scenery and take photos along the way.  If you would rather have a "Paddle" boat trip, we can arrange that as well, but only on request.

8. How cold is the water?

The rivers we run rely on glacier or snow melt as their main source of water. This means early season the water is extremely cold. Later in the season the water does warm up somewhat but it is still very cold. 


9. How do we get back to our car? Is transportation provided?

On the Chilkat River, transportation is provided from Haines and back, it is part of the trip. The trips include transportation back to the meeting place at no extra charge. The pick up is at your hotel, motel or place of lodging.

10. Will I get wet?

No, not on the Chilkat River.  

11. What are the minimum and maximum age limits? And what type of physical condition do you have to be in?

Float trips on the Chilkat  are for people ages 4-104.  People in their 90s have gone on these trips. There have also been groups of paraplegics, and special education groups with escorts.  You select the trip that is right for you or your group. If you have any questions, please ask us ahead of making your reservation.  These age limits & physical condition do fluctuate depending on the water level. Children must weigh a minimum of 40 lbs for proper life jacket fit and should be age 6 or older.

12.  Are we required to sign a waiver? 

Yes, the insurance company, as with all outfitters, requires us to have you sign a waiver & release of liability . 

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask at the time of your reservation!

Contact Information

E-Mail:  tours@alaskafloattrips.com