Float and Paddle FAQ
How does the tubing work?
Take highway 211 towards Pinawa. Turn left at Alice Chambers Trail (signs for Pinawa Suspension Bridge). Park your car in the parking area. Leave items you don't want or need to float in your vehicle. Check in with us under our tent in the north-east corner at the suspension bridge trailhead. We will check you in and provide safety instructions and overview. You can then hop on our shuttle to the starting point to collect your tubes and begin your float. When you reach the ending point, exit the water and walk up the paths to the top of the hill, collect your keys from us and enjoy the rest of your day! Simple and Awesome.
What are the tube options?
Please refer to our “PICS PAGE” tab to see the various tubes that are available, including descriptions of each or scroll down our main page.
Can tubes be linked together?
Yes. We use quick release straps to link all of our tubes, regardless of what type. Everything is linkable, without annoying ropes and knots to worry about.
What is the weight capacity of the tubes?
The luxury single tubes have a capacity limit of 250-280 lbs. Generally weight distribution and body characteristics are more critical than overall weight for balancing purposes. Weight concentrated on the back-side can be more challenging than weight carried on the upper body. We have options for larger individuals. Please contact us directly and we can discuss options.
Can persons with disabilities participate in this activity?
We have had many clients with different disabilities and challenges, who have enjoyed the channel. We are inclusive except where personal safety may be compromised. Please contact us to discuss your individual needs and we will support you to the very best of our ability.
What comes with my tube rental?
Your tube rental includes a quality commercial tube, an adult-sized life jacket (although you are welcome to bring your own for more comfort), dry key security and shuttle service.
Do I need paddles?
This is a tricky question…at times paddling is necessary, either with hands or with an actual mini paddle. Some like having paddles and some find them to be a nuisance to “babysit”. On windy days paddles are definitely advantageous. We have them if you need them.
Will I fall out of my tube?
Generally, you have to be doing something wrong or "goofing around” to fall out of your tube. The water is calm and will not force you out. This is a lazy river, not a white-water experience.
Will someone be with me as a guide during the tube ride?
No. We rent tubes and provide services off the water. The channel is a natural body of water. It is used at your own risk. This is not a theme park. This is a natural independent experience.
Is the channel safe for children?
We do not allow children under the age of 2 on the channel float. Our multi-rider, big tubes are suitable for kids as young as 2, the Junior Luxury Tube (fitted on site) is suitable at age 7 and adult tubes (generally speaking) fit at age 13+. We also have other options off-line and can adjust on site. The above are general suggestions. Body shapes and sizes make a difference when it comes to having a good fit. We will take care of adjustments when you arrive.
Is This a Family Friendly Activity?
This is a family friendly activity. However, we recommend morning departures before 12:30pm for families with teens and younger children. While we encourage people to enjoy nature and allow others to do the same, we have no control over non-clients who may be on the channel. Afternoon temperatures can also be very hot and not as enjoyable for younger and more experienced clients.
What happens if it rains?
We will either reschedule your float day or refund your money, whichever you prefer. Cancellations are based on local weather and radar conditions, not on the colour of the sky or weather in other parts of the province. If you cancel and we are still operating, we will follow our cancellation policy.
What should I bring with me?
Water, sunscreen, hat, glasses (cheapies), water shoes or flip flops. We do not supply children’s life jackets so be sure to bring your own as needed. Glass of any kind is not allowed on the channel. We recommend eating before or after your float rather than on the water.
Is the shuttle included with my tube rental?
Yes, we provide shuttle service to our clients. Stand alone shuttle services for non-clients are occasionally available depending upon the day and time needed. There is a $10 cash fee for non-clients.
What’s the river channel like?
The channel is a very slow moving river with a very moderate amount of current and no white water. The depth fluctuates from very deep (over 3 meters) to quite shallow (½ meter). The general water level remains consistent throughout the season as it is a controlled flow. The channel is all natural, and so are entrance and exit points. keep this in mind before booking.
How long is the float?
The average length is 2.5 hours however this can vary according to the wind conditions on the individual day and how much you paddle (versus floating). Some floats last closer to 3 hours.
Where do I put my keys?
We will store your car keys to ensure they do not fall in the river and to ensure that we can account for you safely at the end. Key storage is mandatory for your protection.
Are changing rooms available?
No. There are portapotties and some larger pit toilets that have room for changing. We advise you to come prepared to float if it is convenient to do so, and change when done in the toiles or vehicles.
Where do I store my belongings?
Please store your personal belongings in your vehicle. There are no lockers and we will not store personal items like wallets, phones, purses etc.. There are security guards in the parking areas.
Are washrooms available?
Yes, there are port-a-potties at the beginning and tank toilets at the end point. The toilets are maintained by the local Pinawa Government District and are not under our purview.
Can I bring alcohol?
Alcohol is illegal on navigable waterways in Manitoba. RCMP and Conservation do patrol the areas on occasion. Alcohol and water activities can be a dangerous combination. We advise using personal judgement and discretion when making decisions.
Can I bring music?
Please keep in mind that while you may want to blast your favorite tunes, there are others on the channel that would rather enjoy the peace. If you choose to bring music, please keep the volume at a personal level or use ear buds.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Should we need to cancel due to poor or dangerous weather we will either reschedule you at no charge or refund your money. Refunds take approximately 5-10 business days. If you do not provide at least 24 hour notice for any other type of personal cancellation or “no show” on the day, your money will not be refunded…rebooking will be your only option.
Non-weather related cancellations
Life happens...if a conflict comes up, we prefer to re-book you free of charge and/or will keep your credit on file (no expiry). It’s pretty simple...we prefer to see you on the water! However, if cancellation is your only option:
More than 48hrs notice= full refund no questions asked
48-24hrs=20% recovery fee or $40, whichever is less
24hrs-4hrs=rebooking option only, no refunds
Less than 4hrs or no show=loss of booking, no refunds
Weather-related cancellations
If WE need to cancel for any reason (poor weather etc.), we will issue refunds. We will post announcements on our insta @floatandpaddle and FaceBook /floatandpaddle...in addition to sending group email and SMS (if provided at booking) to contacts. If in doubt, please check or call before you leave home!
** Your local weather forecast may be very different from ours, with multiple apps in use and wildly different degrees of accuracy. We monitor local radar and use a reliable app for this area...trust us to make the right call 99% of the time.
*** Cancellations can take 5-10 business days to appear back on card statements
Can I bring my pet?
Sorry, we LOVE pets, but not on our tubes…too many past issues forcing us to discontinue this practice.
Is there an age limit or restriction for children?
No children under the age of 2 please. There are safe and very specific tube options for specific ages as indicated above.
Do you have cooler tubes?
Sorry, we’re not renting cooler tubes…if we have availability on the day, you can rent an additional tube. We suggest bringing personal lap coolers or eating before or after floating.