Niseko Ukka, a packrafting guide based in Niseko, has posted a blog post introducing re-boarding techniques after capsizing. The practical content is based on the premise that even if you can do it in flat water, it’s meaningless if you can’t do it in moving water or whitewater.
“Re-boarding” is essential for independently paddling down a river in a packraft. We’ve included a link to the Niseko Ukka blog at the end of this post, so if you’re just starting out with packrafting, be sure to check it out—it’s a great opportunity to take your skills to the next level. Until you can re-board on your own, the only way is through repeated practice. Join one of Niseko Ukka’s subscription tours to learn all about it!
Before the Swim
The article starts with paddle handling. Setting the paddle onto the raft carefully, as a matter of habit, keeps it from washing away the moment a capsize happens.
The 3 Steps
Step 1: Grab the near tube and get into a flutter-kick position.
Step 2: Kick like a dolphin kick while pushing the near tube down, sliding it under your stomach.
Step 3: Repeat the kick, working the tube down toward your knees.
The key image is pushing the tube down and sliding the raft underneath yourself.
Flat Water vs. Whitewater
The article stresses that re-boarding on flat water proves nothing if it can’t be done in whitewater. Packrafts get attention for being light and packable, but handling one in moving water takes technique and experience — reason enough to paddle with someone experienced.
Related Link
→ Niseko Ukka blog: “3 Steps to Re-boarding” https://niseko-ukka.blog/3steps-for-recovery/
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