Trust me I’ve seen it all before. Crying guests, scared rafters and the myriad of jitters in between. But relax most likely youyes the scared little knees-shaking lifejacket-wearing individualwill be the one who at the end of the day wants to go bigger, swim the next rapid and try guiding the boat.
Rafting takes a certain amount of blind faith. There is no guarantee that everything
will work out. Think of it like the first day of high school. There are rumors that
freshman get beat up but most likely on the last day of Senior year the first day four
years ago will make you laugh. You don’t necessarily know what to expect and if
you do fall out of the boat the prospect of being in the water smashing against a
few rocks is petrifying. But take a second and step back from the fear gripping your
rational. Hundreds of thousands raft each year and most come back to do it again.
So there is something there it just might be a bit harder to find for you.
First and foremost you will be wearing a life jacket, which does keep you afloat even
in the most turbulent of waters. Type Three Coast Guard rated jackets will include a
head rest to keep your neck above water even if you are knocked out. It might take
a second for the life jacket to turn on and find the surface but swimming or no
swimming it’s going to keep you safe.
Secondly being scared of water is perfectly normal. Most times guides will work
with guests who are apprehensive building their confidence over time. I know that
if I get someone who is a bit nervous about being in the water I’ll opt to hop out
with them or sit them in the safest seat (really don’t believe the guide here there
really isn’t any) but that boost of confidence is all that’s really needed most of the
time.
Take some time and research the trip and what you will be doing. Most outfitters
have websites with detailed information on what to expect and how to prepare. If
you are really worried don’t hesitate to give them a call and get their advice. Many
times the outfitter I work for has talked to guests multiple times before the trip
about everything from sunscreen to deli meat being served.
Finally don’t freak yourself out too much. This is about having fun and enjoying life
in a new way. Take a second and relax, talk to the guide before hand during the
safety check and remember that most of the guides antics are a show. They are
there in reality to get you down safely and without injury. Most of all just have fun
and enjoy the day. A good trip can lead to a lifetime of passion and the need for
bigger faster stronger water.
Tim Shisler has been a river guide with Whitewater Excitement for the past four
seasons. He is currently working as a freelance outdoor adventure writer and
photographer.
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The largest small craft harbor in the United States, Newport Beach Harbor in Newport Beach, California is not only picturesque, but also full of recreational boating opportunities, from taking a harbor cruise to renting a kayak. It’s even enjoyable from land, whether strolling around Balboa Island or along the bayside of the peninsula.
Newport Harbor is in the lower section of Newport Bay in Newport Beach, California. It is about 4 miles long, running parallel to the Balboa Peninsula and the ocean. The harbor is filled with everything from pedal boats to large ocean vessels. There are over 9000 boats berthed here.
Within Newport Beach Harbor there are 7 islands, mostly filled with lovely houses and flowery porches. The boater can leisurely take a self-guided tour of these homes from the water.
On the other side of PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) the Newport Back Bay and Upper Bay extend well inland.
THE ISLANDS IN NEWPORT BEACH HARBOR
The biggest island is Balboa, accessible by bridge from Jamboree Road and Pacific Coast Highway, or by car ferry from the Balboa Peninsula near the Balboa Fun Zone. This charming little beach community has a scenic walkway that encircles the island, with the picturesque homes on one side and small sandy beaches and boating slips on the waterside. Boutique shops, restaurants, and two stands famous for their balboa bars and frozen bananas (both dipped in chocolate and rolled in the topping of your choice) line Marine Avenue.
The other islands consist of Lido Island, Little Balboa Island, Linda Isle, Collins Island, Harbor Island and Bay Island.
The other major island for visitors is Lido Island. Here you’ll find Lido Marina Village, with shops, art galleries, boutiques and boardwalk cafes.
THE BALBOA FUN ZONE
This historic little area on the peninsula side of the bay offers a small Ferris wheel, carousel, arcade and even bungee jumping. The Balboa Pavilion, which used to be a Big Band showcase is a restored local landmark dating from 1905. Today it houses special events and wedding functions. Catalina boats leave from here daily (less in winter). Call 800-830-7744 or 949-673-5245.
BOATER’S INFORMATION
Whether you are renting a boat or visiting with your own yacht, the following information may be of use. The speed limit within the harbor is 5 m.p.h.. Fuel docks can be found next to both ferry landings on either side of the bay. A boating launch ramp is located at in the Back Bay.
There is a Harbor Department guest anchorage dock near the Harbor Patrol and Coast Guard Base. For marine weather updates, including surf and water reports, call 949-673-3371.
DINING AROUND THE HARBOR
For dining in Newport Beach Harbor, there are several restaurants on Lido Island. More can be found near the ferry landing on the Balboa Peninsula. Balboa Island has restaurants on Marine Ave. (which are not on the water). For waterfront restaurants with outstanding views, check out the area of Pacific Coast Highway that lines the inland side of the harbor. This section is sometimes referred to as Mariner’s Mile.
NEWPORT HARBOR NAUTICAL MUSEUM
Located in the Balboa Marina off of Pacific Coast Highway, the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum is located on a riverboat. It features artwork and exhibits, which pertain to all things maritime. Many of the exhibits are interactive and there is a touch tank. They also have hundreds of ship models to peruse.
The tall ship Lynx docks here and gives tours as well. The museum’s address is 151 East Coast Highway, Newport Beach. There is a store and restaurant to enjoy after your visit. Their phone number is 949-673-3377
Description: Newport Beach Harbor. Discover all the scenic pleasures Newport Beach Harbor has to offer, whether from a boat on the water or strolling around Balboa Island or the peninsula.
CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE
Every December, Newport Beach Harbor hosts a Christmas Parade of Lights. This is a great family event. Boaters and homeowners alike go all out in decorating their houses and/or boats. Viewers stroll or sit along the bay front on Balboa Island, enjoying the show of passing lights reflecting off the water.
Special tip: you can grab a hot cocoa or café mocha at the local Starbucks on Marine Avenue to keep your hands and innards warm, as December nights can be quite cool by the bay. For more information, call 949-494-3030.
A vacation in Newport Beach means more than just the beach; you have the Newport Beach Harbor to enjoy as well.
Laura Eggers is a beach lover with a website. http://www.southern-california-beaches-vacation-guide.com offers visitors a plethora of information about the different beach areas to help with planning their beach vacation in sunny Southern California.