rafts

Rafts are buoyant watercraft used for travel, work, or recreation on rivers, lakes, and near-shore waters. They are among the simplest forms of boat design and can be built from a range of materials, including hollow logs, bundles of reeds or bamboo, and, in modern use, inflatable tubes of rubber or PVC. A raft is typically flat and wide to provide stability, with a deck or seating area as needed. Propulsion is usually accomplished with paddles or poles, though some designs use oars, sails, or towing lines. Some rafts incorporate a rigid frame or floor for comfort and cargo capacity.

Historically, rafts have been used for thousands of years as one of the earliest means of water transport. Ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian sites refer to wooden or reed rafts used to move people and goods, while riverine cultures in other regions built similar craft from locally available materials. In the 19th and 20th centuries inflatable rafts were developed, and recreational river rafting began to expand in the mid-20th century in North America, evolving into organized tours, competitive events, and rescue operations.

There are several common raft types: simple log rafts; inflatable rafts with either a flexible or rigid floor; pontoon or cataraft designs that use inflatable tubes with a frame; and decked rafts used for whitewater trips. Rafts are used for transportation, fishing, exploration, and leisure. They are typically operated by a crew of paddlers, though some motorized or hybrid designs exist. In whitewater settings, guides may use safety equipment such as life jackets, helmets, throw bags, and rescue lines, and participants are advised to follow local regulations and training requirements.