WHITEWATER RAFT GUIDE SCHOOL

So you want to be a whitewater raft guide … FOR FREE!?!

The Canadian Outback Adventures raft guide apprenticeship is designed as a training program for individuals wishing to obtain a commercial river rafting license in BC. Fees for this program are waived for individuals showing the desire and aptitude to become professional whitewater raft guides.

The course prepares students to take both the written and practical examinations required by the British Columbia River Outfitters Association (BCROA). The Canadian Outback Adventures river guide apprenticeship provides a solid foundation of skills for aspiring professional whitewater raft guides.

Course topics Include: river hydrology, river program risk management, specialized equipment, oar and paddle techniques, basic rope systems management, river rescue, flip drills, and many others.

We include a great mix of theoretical and practical river guide instruction and training. Days are intense, allowing you the best possible chance to learn as much as possible and pass the government exams. Through ongoing support and feedback our instructors are trained to provide you with the skills required to pass the exams. Post-course practice using COA equipment is available for successful graduates and will be available on an exchange-for-work basis.

Upon completion of this course you will be qualified to work as a guide in the commercial rafting industry. We recruit the best and the brightest graduates to join our guide roster for the summer.

“We were very impressed with all of the raft guides and their professionalism. We had the ride of a lifetime!”

Why choose a Canadian Outback Raft Guide School?

1. Our raft guide apprenticeship conveniently takes place just an hour from Vancouver & Whistler near Squamish, “Canada’s Outdoor Recreation Capital”
2. Our raft guide apprenticeship operates on several rivers which offers guide trainees diversity
3. We boast a 97% success rate under the Raft Guide process
4. We use state of the art equipment including cat rafts and a variety of raft sizes providing students the opportunity to try out many different configurations
5. We offer a very high level of instruction led by some of the areas most experienced river guides.
6. We include tent lodging and meals at no extra cost
7. River gear is available at no extra cost to those who need it
8. We offer extra training days
9. For those students who demonstrate high standards, raft guide job openings are often available
10. Canadian Outback is a member of the BCROA and is well respected within the industry

Raft Guide Course Topics

As noted previously, this comprehensive apprenticeship covers all the skills required to become a professional river guide including safety briefings, river hydrology, equipment, oar and paddle techniques, rope skills, river rescue, flip drills, and many others. All course materials (texts, handouts, etc) are provided

Apprenticeship Dates & Locations

Intake into the apprenticeship is ongoing throughout the rafting season and takes place at the Canadian Outback Adventure Base in Squamish, B.C, just minutes from world-class skiing, boarding, backcountry, mountain biking, climbing and virtually every other outdoor activity.

Course Fees

Fees for this program are waived for individuals showing the desire and aptitude to become professional whitewater raft guides.

How to Register

For more information about this exciting opportunity in the growing adventure tourism industry, please contact Vincent Fecteau at vfecteau@canadianoutback.com.