Weekend rafting for groups

Friendship groups, stag and hen parties, clubs, youth organisations and small companies booking a team day out.

A price per person or a flat fee per group trip, with minimum group sizes so each outing covers kit, insurance and any helper costs.

• Raft guiding or river leader qualification and rescue training
• Calm group management and clear safety briefings
• Marketing through social media and local groups

• Check whether you need an adventure activity licence or registration for this kind of commercial trip
• Activity insurance can be costly and may require specific qualifications, so get quotes before buying kit
• Check access rights and any permits for the stretch of river you plan to use
• Never run trips without safety cover, suitable water levels and enough qualified people for the group size
• Weather and river levels can cancel trips at short notice, so set a clear refund and rebooking policy

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on whether you buy second-hand or hire rafts and kit. Activity insurance can be costly and may need specific qualifications, so get quotes before you buy anything.

Check whether you need an adventure activity licence or registration for this kind of commercial trip. Also check access rights and any permits for the stretch of river you plan to use, and your insurer's requirements.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on group bookings and the season. You can start with around 8 hours a week, but weather and river levels can cancel trips at short notice.