The modern raft is an
inflatable boat,
consisting of very durable, multi-layered rubberized or
vinyl fabrics with several independent air chambers. The
length varies between 3.5 m (11 ft) and 6 m (20 ft), the
width between 1.8 m (6 ft) and 2.5 m (8 ft). The exception
to this size rule is usually the
packraft,
which is designed as a portable single-person raft and may
be as small as 1.5 metres (4.9 ft) long and weigh as little
as 4 pounds (1.8 kg).
Rafts come in a few different forms. In Europe, the most common is the symmetrical raft steered with a paddle at the stern. Other types are the asymmetrical, rudder-controlled raft and the symmetrical raft with central helm (oars). Rafts are usually propelled with ordinary paddles and typically hold 4 to 12 persons. In Russia, rafts are often hand made and are often a catamaran style with two inflatable tubes attached to a frame. Pairs of paddlers navigate on these rafts. Catamaran style rafts have become popular in the western United States as well, but are typically rowed instead of paddled.
