How to Float Down Jamaica's Martha Brae River
Having already made travel plans to an all inclusive resort in either the Montego Bay or Ocho Rios areas, the traveler should check with the concierge at their particular resorts about river rafting vendors. There are several rivers in Jamaica that meander from the mountainous backbone of the country to the gulf. The Martha Brae River is very popular and getting there will require a two to three hour shuttle from the lobby. Once at the river, the river pilot will be selected, usually the next pilot available. The system is similar to that of taxi's at airports. River pilots remake their bamboo raft sometimes several times a season. The long narrow contraption provides a comfortable sitting bench, also out of bamboo, so the couple can relax and enjoy. The pilot stands at the bow throughout the journey guiding the boat with a long navigational stick, also out of bamboo.
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Instructions
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Floating Down Jamaica's Martha Brae River
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Pacing can be determined by the guide who allows for river flow to determine speed. At times he'll steer away from the current toward the slower flowing shore area, thus extending the length of the trip.
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Hearing about the legend of Martha Brae, while riding down her river, is a nice way to pass the time. Apparently centuries ago, Martha led some conquering soldiers into a nearby cave, summoned the river to rise, and drowned them.
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Considered haunted by many, the Martha Brae river appears mysterious around every bend. Cows appear grazing on the banks. Several Jamaica children fish for crawdads beneath the shade of a tree, where the boughs reach over for a drink.
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Tips & Warnings
Purchase a six pack of Red Stripe at the vendor window. The beer is thrown loose into a plastic grocery bag along with a scoopful of ice.
Share the beer with your pilot. Though very cordial he's also hot and tired.
While floating the pilot will carve a gourd and attempt to sell it to you at journeys end. Buy it! It’s a few dollars and it vitally supports an already meager income.
Though shaded in dark greens in many areas, the river bakes when the sun breaks through so wear sunscreen.
The tropics breed mosquitoes, bring repellent.
Jamaicans are a friendly people who recognize and respect the commodity of tourism, return the respect. It will highly enhance the Jamaican experience.
