Find quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about our rafting adventures, packages, safety measures, and booking process.
The Ottawa River is a gem when it comes to water sports. With a high volume of water, whether you come at the beginning of the season or near the end, you are sure to have a blast. The sections of rapids we use for our adventures are internationally renowned for whitewater rafting and kayaking. A Day rafting experience will have you running class 3-5 rapids. We tone it down with no higher than class 3 rapids for Family and Full Moon rafting. We make you discover the very best itinerary based on the water levels, the features available and the type of rafting you wish to experience.
HorizonX strides to make its adventures fun for everyone! Family rafting starts at around 5 years old weighing at least 40lbs. For Day rafting, participants must be at least 12 years old and 90lbs. Full Moon rafting is reserved for guests 16 and up. An acknowledgment of risk form must be signed by an adult for all guests under 16 years old. Babies and caretakers are welcomed to enjoy basecamp while the rest of the family is on the river. Babysitting services may be available at an extra charge, simply inquire ahead of time.
Whitewater rafting is considered to be an extreme sport and so the safety mesures must match the risk. Our safety standards are the highest on the Ottawa River. You are in very good hands with our rigourously trained and experienced guides. As long as you follow your guide’s instructions, you will have a great experience! Still hesitant? Start with family rafting for less intensity.
We raft rain or shine because quite frankly, you will get wet no matter what! As for thunderstorms, they rarely affect our itinerary. We may need to delay start time a bit or take a break if we are already on the river, but that’s about it. Our only weather dependant adventure is Full Moon rafting for visibility reasons. This is why we include a plan B date with all reservations for this package.
At HorizonX, we like to seize the day! Check-in is nice and early at basecamp at 8:30am. We then organize a group briefing before everyone gets ready to take the bus. If wetsuits are needed, this is your chance to grab one. The bus leaves for the river around 9am. Once at put-in, we gear up and paddle out. Your guide will explain all the safety measures. Listen to him/her! We try to play as much as possible in the available rapids while respecting the schedule of the activity. Enjoy this precious moment on the river and have a blast! We arrive at take-out around 1:30, have a snack and a drink before returning to basecamp. Once there, you have enough time to change out of your wet gear and relax a little before a yummy BBQ lunch! Around 3:30pm, everything is pretty much said and done. You head home with a full belly and head full of Xciting memories.
