The Boats

Zephyr provides a diversity of rafts, both in size and function, on most trips. This not only gives you the opportunity to experience the river in a variety of ways, it also allows us to match water levels with suitable craft for maneuverability and safety.

Paddle Boats involve guest participation in getting through the rapids in response to commands from your guide. On the Kings, Merced, and American Rivers, most of the rafts are paddle rafts. On the Tuolumne, we need to carry overnight gear with us, and therefore need the gear carrying capacity of oar-powered rafts as well.

Oar Boats carry all the food and duffle. Higher water levels sometimes necessitate that these boats also carry passengers to help when precise maneuvering and extra power are needed. Our guides will occasionally allow interested clients to try their hand at rowing during milder rapids. Oar boats are great for guests who just want so sit, ride and enjoy the day without having to paddle.

Oar-Paddle Combos offer great maneuverability for high water trips.  We compare this boat to a bicycle with training wheels, and they are great for younger kids, and adults who do not want to have to paddle as much as one does in pure paddle boats.  Normally on most trips we are able to provide all 3 types of rafts.