Intex Mariner 400 - Whitewater

['83Crestliner]

Hey all- wanted to see if anyone has used the Mariner 4 raft for any whitewater and might have some feedback. I have had it for a couple of months and have been gradually testing its limits. I have now gotten it up to class II rapids (not consistent) and it has really held up well. Has anyone taken it out in stronger rapids? The raft is not selfbailing so i would not push it too far.

thanks for the feedback.

 

[lncoop]

Re: Intex Mariner 400 - Whitewater

Could you get away with it? Probably. Should you? Nope. If you want to run greater than class II on the cheap you might consider seeking out a used bucket boat. I just picked up a 14' hypalon raft for $400 plus shipping (freight was just under $100 from Oregon to Arkansas). Not much to look at, but she's a tough old beast, and hypo rafts roll up really well and last a long time. I wouldn't hesitate to take her down any river in the country. Plus, the true heavy duty whitewater rafts can handle upward of 1000 lbs, which makes them great for weekend floats. Just a thought.

 

['83Crestliner]

Re: Intex Mariner 400 - Whitewater

Yea, i see what you are saying. I have seen those hypalons, sould like you got a good deal. The mariner is pretty tough, but it has its limits. I think it could hande some light III's.

 

['83Crestliner]

Re: Intex Mariner 400 - Whitewater

Incoop- where did you get a deal like that?

 

[lncoop]

Re: Intex Mariner 400 - Whitewater

Incoop- where did you get a deal like that?

Well, the process has been The Education of Little Tree. It's mind-boggling how much there is to know about raft setup. I'll tell you all you about it, but only if you really want me to. In any case, I got the raft from an outfitter in Oregon. This is the best time to look for one because they've had time to finish up their seasons and go through their inventories. Keep in mind if you do it that way you're at the mercy of the seller, but I can vouch for this one. It's River Trails in Deschutes, Oregon if you're interested. Here's a link. http://rivertrails.com/
And, yes your Mariner will probably be okay on the kind of short runs you envision as long as you're prepared for the possibility that you may find out otherwise at a very inopportune time.

 

['83Crestliner]

Re: Intex Mariner 400 - Whitewater

Incoop- thanks for the info. I checked out that site and those are top of the line rafts as you said. I agree that i would also not hesitate to go down much of anything with one of those. I love the rush, challange, and risk posed by whitewater, but one must always have a healthy respect for it.

Thanks again for your feedback!