Q: Is there a minimum or maximum
# of people who can go?
A: There is a two person minimum for all trips. We can accommodate up to 50
kayakers on any given day. This maximum is due to the National Park Service who limits
the number of non-motor boats launching on the river.
Q: What type of Kayaks do you use?
A: We use Old Town Loons for our rental fleet. Through 14 years of tours,
rescues, and boat repairs, these boats have been the most resilient. They are practically
indestructible, very stable for beginners, and will even float when filled with water.
The open cockpits provide plenty of room for legs, gear, bags, water and squirt gun
(a necessity in the summer heat)
Q: I don’t know how to swim. Will I be okay?
A: Most of the day you will be sitting in your kayak enjoying the river, nature
however is unpredictable, and there is always the possibility of flipping your boat.
We provide you with a modern PFD (personal flotation device) that will keep you afloat
should you go in the “drink”. Our guides are professionals, fully trained
in rescue techniques, as well as CPR and First Aid. They know how to read the currents,
keep you upright, and bail you out if need arises. You are in good hands with B.C.O.
Q: How far is the trip?
A: The trip is 11 ½ miles long. It starts out below the Hoover Dam
in Nevada and ends up 11 ½ miles down river at Willow Beach in Arizona with
amazing scenery in between.
Q: Will I get wet?
A: Yes, you will get wet; at least up to your ankles and sometimes more. The
river is 54° F all year round. The cold waters are nice in the summer, but unless
you want to become part of the polar bear club, too cold for swimming during winter
months. We give you a dry bag so you can bring extra socks, shirts, jackets or anything
else.
Q: What should I wear?
A: We encourage you to wear foot wear that has a good grip on the sole, preferably
old sneakers that you won’t mind getting wet. You will be doing some hiking
and good comfortable shoes/sandals are best. No thong or “strapy” sandals.
In summer: We recommend wearing shorts, t-shirt, hat, bathing suit,
sunscreen and water shoes. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must and a hat might not
be a bad idea either.
In winter: We recommend wearing a bathing suit under long sleeves and
pants, sunglasses, and water shoes. Cotton will retain water and when wet will keep
you cold. We suggest wearing fleece or any types of synthetic material like polyester,
nylon, capilene or polypropylenes. A light fleece jacket or sweatshirt and wool socks
will keep you warm after soaking in the hot springs. We also suggest for really cold
weather brining a ski-type beanie or hat that covers the ears and a light pair of
gloves. We will supply paddling jackets in chilly weather. Sunglasses and sunscreen
are almost always a must.
Q: Is there an age limit? Can I bring my children?
A: We recommend that children are at least 13 years old to paddle in a kayak
by themselves. Children 6 and up can sit in a tandem kayak with an adult, but they
might not be much help paddling, but ultimately it is up to you if you want to bring
your children. If you think you can handle paddling for two and the kids will enjoy
the trip, than bring them along. We’ve had many youngsters enjoy the river
as much as adults have. But remember it is an 11 ½ mile trip.
Q: Do you supply alcohol? May we bring our own?
A: The answer to both theses questions is no. Safety is our #1 concern. We
have a spotless record and we want to keep it that way. Combining tourists who aren’t
used to the desert 120°° F with miles of paddling usually equals dehydration.
Mix alcohol into that equation and it gets dangerous quickly.
Q: Do I need a permit first?
A: Yes. This trip is so scenic and popular, that the N.P.S. limits the # of
boats allowed on the river daily. The permits are $13 per a person for adults and
$10 for those under the age of 16. Permits will be obtained by us at the time you
make your reservation.
Q: Do I need to bring anything?
A: Just bring yourself, a positive attitude, proper clothing and we’ll
do the rest. Cameras are almost always a must for capturing your fun and scenic adventure.
If you have your own PFD and would like to use it you are more than welcome to bring
it along with anything else you may feel necessary.
Q: What time will I get done?
A: We pick you up from your hotel at about 7AM for all trips. You should be
back around 5:30PM from this full day trip (depending on traffic). You will be tired
and maybe even sunburned and ready for a margarita when you get back, so we don’t
suggest you book any other night events the same day of your kayak trip.
Q: Is the driver's name really Barnacle Bill?
A: Well, you’ll just have to ask him yourself!
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Email:
info@bouldercityoutfitters.com