On the other hand if you're totally passive and let it happen, it really doesn't matter if you're disabled or not. While choosing the right river is important, another factor is the type of boat or raft. In a stern-frame oar boat, the guide has oars in the back of the boat. Passengers still have paddles but don't need to put out as much effort as in a traditional raft, said Chris Jonason, of Wave Trek out of Index. A center-mount frame oar boat is often used on the Skagit River trips, she said.
Passengers can sit and enjoy the view of the rapids.
It's all up to the guide to move the boat. Jonason has often taken rafters on the Skykomish River on stern frames. The oldest rafters were 70, 75. Skykomish River's challenging Boulder Drop may give some potential rafters more than a moment of concern. The bigger question is whether you're willing and comfortable swimming this rapid.