NOC Rafting And Ducky Kayak Rentals in North Carolina
Paddle the scenic Nantahala River at your own pace with a raft or ducky rental. Perfect for experienced paddlers and groups of any size.
Overview
Raft and ducky rentals are perfect for guests who love the guided rafting trip experience but want to take adventure to the next level. Paddle at your own pace stopping to swim or surf, practice your skills as you navigate the Nantahala River across bouncy waves and mild rapids. NOC provides a pre-trip orientation, professionally maintained boats suitable for any group size, and a shuttle to the put-in. Choose from rafts or inflatable kayak “duckies” in single or tandem.
NOC is one of the only outfitters where rental trips end right back at the main outpost, with no wait times for a second shuttle.
Previous whitewater experience is recommended.
Book ahead and Save $5 per person! Walk up fees apply at our Nantahala location.
Highlights
- Raft and ducky rentals are ideal for guests that love the guided whitewater experience, but want to take the adventure level up a notch.
- Practice paddling skills with the perfect mix of fun class II-III rapids, waves, and splashes with calmer floating spots, finishing with Nantahala Falls.
- NOC provides high-quality boats and gear to fit any sized group with rafts or inflatable duckies in single or tandem.
- The Nantahala River is the quintessential mountain river with spectacular scenery and clear water.
What to Expect
A rentals rafting or ducky trip will take approximately 3 – 4 hours total with 2 – 3 hours spent on the river.
Please check in for your trip 30 minutes prior to your reservation on the Adventure Deck at NOC Bryson City.
After a brief orientation and video, you’ll get geared up with pfds and paddles and load onto the big blue bus to shuttle to the river put in. Then it’s down the river you go, paddling through bouncy waves, cool mountain water, and fun rapids ending at Nantahala Falls.
Get the Best Value of The Summer!
Location
Before You Visit
Nantahala Rental: Raft (2-8 person)
Participants must be 7+ years of age or weigh a minimum of 60lbs. All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
The nature of this trip increases the likelihood of an unplanned swim. Guests should be comfortable swimming and able to follow directions while in the water to aid in their own rescue. Prior paddling experience is recommended.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums specific to this trip. Please read our General Participant Eligibility & Recommendations for more information.
Nantahala Rental: Single Ducky
Participants must be 9+ years of age or weigh a minimum of 90 lbs. All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
The nature of this trip increases the likelihood of an unplanned swim. Guests should be comfortable swimming and able to follow directions while in the water to aid in their own rescue. Prior paddling experience is recommended.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums specific to this trip. Please read our General Participant Eligibility & Recommendations for more information.
Nantahala Rental: Double Ducky
Participants must be 7+ years of age. All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
The nature of this trip increases the likelihood of an unplanned swim. Guests should be comfortable swimming and able to follow directions while in the water to aid in their own rescue. Prior paddling experience is recommended.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums specific to this trip. Please read our General Participant Eligibility & Recommendations for more information.
Nantahala Guide-Assisted Half-Day
Participants must be 7+ years of age. All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
The nature of this trip increases the likelihood of an unplanned swim. Guests should be comfortable swimming and able to follow directions while in the water to aid in their own rescue. Prior paddling experience is recommended.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums specific to this trip. Please read our General Participant Eligibility & Recommendations for more information.
NOC provides all boats, paddling equipment, and pfds for this self-guided adventure.
- Boat
- Paddles
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Wet Suits & Splash Gear (by request)
Dress in clothes that can get wet, and wear shoes that will stay securely on your feet, with a back heel straps (flip flops are not recommended). Don’t forget dry clothes and shoes for after your trip. There are changing rooms available.
- Clothing that can get wet
- Shoes that will stay securely on your feet
- In cooler weather, avoid wearing heavy cottons; wear synthetics and wool socks
*Please leave all personal belongings in your car, our guides will take your keys prior to the trip and hold them until your return.
Enjoy riverside dining at one of our two locations conveniently located right on campus. River’s End Restaurant offers American-style cuisine with pizza, sandwiches, salads and more. Big Wesser features quick Southern fare like burgers and barbeque. Both have a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.
Additional snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the Outfitter’s Store or the General Store.