Rafting Training in Czechia
Erasmus+ Sport Mobilit | Raft With Us
The Raft With US project took place from 4 August to 10 August 2025 along the Vltava River in the Czech Republic. Over the course of the project, 20 participants from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Portugal came together to experience rafting, develop practical outdoor skills and build international friendships. The programme combined physical activity, experiential learning and intercultural cooperation. Throughout the journey, participants improved their abilities on the water, learned to support one another in different situations and gained valuable experience in a multicultural environment. The shared activities encouraged communication, mutual respect and active participation, regardless of previous rafting experience.
Day 1: Vyšší Brod – Občerstvení U Maxe / 16 km Map
The adventure began in Vyšší Brod, where participants were introduced to the essential principles of safe rafting. Experienced instructors explained how to use paddles correctly, maintain balance, coordinate movements within a team and respond appropriately to unexpected situations on the river. Special attention was given to safety procedures, including how to react if a raft capsized. After the introductory training, participants had the opportunity to apply their newly acquired knowledge during the first 16-kilometre section of the Vltava River. This initial experience helped everyone become familiar with the equipment, develop confidence on the water and establish cooperation within their rafting teams. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as participants began their shared journey.
Day 2: Občerstvení U Maxe – Nové Spolí / 16 km Map
The second stage offered participants an opportunity to build upon the experience gained during the opening day. The 16-kilometre route presented additional challenges that required greater concentration, effective communication and coordinated teamwork. As participants became more comfortable handling their rafts, they gradually improved their paddling techniques and developed a better understanding of river conditions. Navigating different sections of the river encouraged them to make decisions together and rely on one another. The day contributed significantly to strengthening group dynamics. Participants supported each other, shared practical advice and celebrated their progress, which increased their confidence and motivation for the following stages.
Day 3: Nové Spolí – Camping Paradijs / 14 km Map
During the third day, the group continued its journey along a 14-kilometre section of the Vltava River. By this stage, participants had already developed a stronger sense of teamwork and greater independence in controlling their rafts. The activities concentrated on refining navigation skills, responding to changing water currents and overcoming natural obstacles. Participants practiced adapting their movements to different situations while maintaining effective communication with their teammates. The programme was enriched by recreational water-based activities and team challenges, which created opportunities for informal learning and interaction. These experiences brought participants closer together and demonstrated how cooperation and trust contributed to successful group performance.
Day 4: Camping Paradijs – Tábořiště Dívčí kámen / 13 km Map
The fourth stage represented an important opportunity for participants to demonstrate the progress they had made throughout the project. The 13-kilometre journey included varied river conditions that tested their ability to work together and respond to unexpected challenges. Participants applied the techniques they had practiced during the previous days and showed greater confidence when navigating the river. Situations that initially seemed difficult became easier to manage thanks to improved coordination and mutual support. Beyond the sporting aspect, the day highlighted the importance of responsibility, patience and solidarity. The group successfully completed another stage of the expedition, gaining a sense of achievement and further strengthening the relationships established during the project.
Day 5: Tábořiště Dívčí kámen – Boršov nad Vltavou / 10 km Map
The final rafting stage covered 10 kilometres and brought the participants to Boršov nad Vltavou, marking the completion of their journey along the Vltava River. Compared with the beginning of the project, participants demonstrated noticeable improvements in their rafting abilities, communication and teamwork. The last section provided an opportunity to enjoy the river with greater confidence and appreciate the experiences shared during the previous days. Following the completion of the rafting activities, participants reflected on their personal achievements, exchanged impressions and discussed the most memorable moments of the programme. The closing activities were accompanied by a positive atmosphere, laughter and a farewell surprise that made the conclusion of the project particularly memorable.
The Raft With US project successfully achieved its objectives by combining outdoor education, international cooperation and inclusive sporting activities in a practical learning environment. Throughout the programme, participants gained technical rafting knowledge, developed problem-solving abilities and improved their communication and teamwork skills. The experience also encouraged personal responsibility, adaptability and confidence when facing unfamiliar situations. An equally important outcome was the intercultural dimension of the project. By spending time together, overcoming challenges and sharing everyday experiences, participants from four different countries developed stronger mutual understanding and established meaningful connections. The project demonstrated that outdoor activities could serve as an effective platform for non-formal education, social inclusion and international friendship. The knowledge, experiences and relationships developed during Raft With US provided a valuable foundation for future cooperation and similar educational initiatives.
"Raft With Us" is a Cooperation Partnership project in the field of Sport, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.
