Shotover River Whitewater Rafting on 10.12.2025 at 08:00

My white-water experience up to level 5

The day began early – right on time at 7:30 AM at the meeting point. Already there, one could feel how carefully and calmly the entire team works. Health check, weight control, thorough equipment selection, and a clear safety briefing set the stage for what was to come: white water up to level V, technically demanding, powerful, and full of movement.

Our group consisted of six adults from various countries – and I was the oldest. That didn’t matter. Everyone was curious and motivated, but without prior experience. The mix was pleasant and straightforward.

The ride into the old gold miner’s gorge was already an experience: narrow paths, unsecured slopes, rough terrain. It quickly became apparent that we were in an environment that demands respect.

Everything proceeded in a structured manner at the starting point. Wetsuit, shoes, top, helmet, and life jacket were checked and adjusted multiple times. This precision gave me a sense of safety, and in hindsight, it was absolutely necessary.

Getting accustomed to the water – level III

The first hour served for training: commands, rhythm, coordination within the team. Despite this practice phase, the current was already noticeably strong – typical level III, lively, but controllable.

The transition – higher intensity

In the second half, the rapids became significantly more intense: level IV and individual sections reaching level V. The water became faster and less predictable, the maneuvers more technical, and the reaction times shorter. Twice our group fell into the water – at just eight degrees. Thanks to the quick and professional reactions of the guides and safety kayakers, each incident was resolved swiftly. One passenger was briefly washed out of the boat, but was back on board immediately.

Important for me: I never felt insecure.

The reason had a name: Benji, our guide. Calm, focused, always with an eye on each person in the boat. This type of leadership fosters confidence – especially at higher difficulty levels.

The black tunnel

A particularly intense moment was the 170-meter-long dark tunnel. Without sight, only guided by the commands of the guide and the sound of the water. A section that requires concentration and is simultaneously very impressive.

The most demanding rapids – level V

The concluding section was the technically most challenging part of the tour. Level V means: powerful waves, clear lines, little tolerance for mistakes. Our boat was shaken thoroughly, and teamwork was crucial.

I was sitting in a prominent position:

From the guide's perspective, I was in the first seat on the right in the boat – so back right from his perspective, but front right when viewed from outside the photo.

A position that requires a lot of stability and quick reactions, especially when the boat rises sharply or tips sideways.

Conclusion

It was a special morning: challenging, well-organized, intense, and continuously accompanied safely. An experience that shows that adventure is possible and enriching even beyond 60 – when leadership, organization, and safety concepts are right.

Now, at 2:10 PM, I am documenting everything in writing and am pleased about a day that was successful in every respect.

And for the photos, it applies:

Find me – from the guide’s perspective front right.