Tubing in Dominica

[maldemar]

We are considering river tubing in Dominica this December. FIL and MIL are going with us and wonder if the tubing excursion would be appropriate for a 70 and 62 year old. MIL has a bit of trouble with walking on rough terrain and FIL has some problems with a hip. All things considered they are in OK shape and can bicycle 20 miles without a problem and further with a little problem. We are looking for smooth to fairly smooth ride; no whitewater class 3 rapids or above :)

[138east]

My previous tubing experience was in Jamaica, where I did a leisurely float down a quiet stream. When I got to Dominica, we started out with some really choppy water with lots of rocks and I immediately dumped. I thought, "what have I gotten myself into". The water level was low which made the rocks seem even bigger.

 

Anyway, I'm 62 and I did OK on the "float". I only capsized once, which was less than anyone else on the trip. However, I made a big effort in the rapids areas so that I wouldn't overturn. We had lots of young men helping us throughout the entire course.

 

I don't really know what to recommend for FIL and MIL. Parts of the trip really required a lot of concentration, balance, and foot dexterity. It might be more than they are prepared for.

 

However, our tour guide followed us along the course, so perhaps they could watch and cheer while you "float" down the river. On a private tour you could probably negotiate a discount if they don't participate.

[maldemar]

Thanks for the info. This will really help us plan accordingly.

[mmsoko]

Our group of mostly 60's had a great time with Wacky Rollers and faired very well. Personally I was just 2+ months off knee replacement and nothing on the river was hard to maneuver. The river was fairly shallow in parts and you learned to lift your bottom up as to not scrape the bottom;).

The guides would be there if anyone got stuck or needed a push.

It was a great day, I think MIL & FIL would enjoy it.

[maldemar]

It was a great day, I think MIL & FIL would enjoy it.

 

Thanks for the input. We will revisit the idea giving it a try.

[The Sisters]

I was just reading here about the river float and wondering what the river levels would be in April ...this sounds like it might be fun:D

[Mommy40]

I was in Dominica last week and we past by the Wacky Rollers location. The water was REALLY low. Just wanted to give you a heads up. We were on Beno's tour.