Frequently Asked Questions:

You can find the answers to many frequently asked questions here. If you can't find what you're looking for in this FAQ, you call us at 908-996-5386 or email us at info@delawarerivertubing.com with your questions or concerns.

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BEFORE YOUR RIVER ADVENTURE - FAQ:

Q: Do I need to make a reservation or buy tickets in advance to participate?

It is not mandatory to make a reservation or buy tickets in advance to participate. We allow walk-ins, but for groups of 20 or more participants, it's recommended that you make a free reservation at least 3 days in advance to ensure better service. Anyone who makes a free reservation will get a text or email notification if Delaware River Tubing must close in the event of inclement weather or flooded river conditions.

Q: What is the difference between a reservation and buying tickets?

A reservation can be made on our website for free and has zero obligation. No credit card information is taken and your reservation helps us ensure you get better service. Reservations do not guarantee equipment availability, but they do allow us to contact you via text or email to notify you we are closed in the event of inclement weather or river flooding. Buying tickets ensures that you will have equipment for your trip and will make the check-in process quicker and smoother. Tickets can be refunded anytime or used on a rain date should conditions not be optimal.

Q: How do I make a reservation or buy tickets?

You can make a reservation on our website by visiting our Reservations Page or you can call us at 908-996-5386 for a Delaware River Tubing Representative to set up your free reservation/booking. Tickets can also be purchased on our website by visiting our Buy Tickets Page.

Q: How can I change my reservation if any details change, such as date of trip, number of participants, desired equipment to rent, etc.?

The easiest way to update a previous reservation is by simply creating a new reservation when booking online. Please just mention that you're updating a previous reservation in the "comments" section at the bottom of the reservation form. You can also call us at 908-996-5386 if you'd like to discuss any changes required for your group's river adventure.

Q: What equipment does Delaware River Tubing offer for rent?

Delaware River Tubing offers tubes, rafts, canoes and kayaks for rental. Certain restrictions may apply for the different rental equipment, which will be discussed below.

Q: What is the pricing for tubing, rafting, canoeing and kayaking?

Delaware River Tubing pricing is based upon our recently introduced "Off-Peak" and "Peak" pricing schedules. Off-Peak pricing is available from mid-May through the end of June. The Peak pricing schedule begins in July and ends after the first week of September. The Off-Peak pricing schedule then resumes and will remain in effect until the end of the season. You can view all of our general admission pricing by visiting our Pricing Page or view our group rates on the Group Pricing Page.

Q: Do you offer child or senior citizen discounts?

Sorry, but Delaware River Tubing charges the same rate for all participants, regardless of age. However, you can join the Delaware River Tubing E-Mail List to receive exclusive discounts via email. Delaware River Tubing occasionally offers discounted tickets through special promotions, discount websites and through other various forms of print and online advertising.

Q: What discounting is available to save on admission pricing?

As mentioned above, Delaware River Tubing offers special discounts through its group rates for parties of 20 or more participants, the Delaware River Tubing E-Mail list, third-party vendors such as Groupon and on the official website on the Specials Page. Delaware River Tubing is owned by a former U.S. Marine, so there is also the "Military Monday" Discount, where any service member (Former and Active) can show their Military ID for half-price admission on Mondays. This discount also applies to all police, fire fighters, EMS members and all US Military Branches (ie: US Navy, US Marines, US Army, US Air Force, etc.).

Q: What payment methods are accepted?

Delaware River Tubing accepts cash and credit card for all general and group admissions. Groups of 20 or more may also pay by check or PO with approval of a Delaware River Tubing Group Coordinator. An ATM machine is available on-site at our check-in office.

Q: What is your refund policy?

Delaware River Tubing will provide a full refund anytime you cancel your booking or if you cannot participate for any reason. Participants are entitled to a full refund up to the point that they enter the water. Once a participant enters the Delaware River, refunds will not be issued. Inclement weather, river conditions and other unknown factors cannot be controlled, so please call us in advance and check the weather/river conditions prior to departing for your river adventure. Please use reasonable judgement when determining a date to visit us on the river and decide on a rain date with your group should conditions not be optimal. You can call us to learn more about local weather and river conditions at 908-996-5386. Please note that choosing not to stop at or missing the Famous River Hot Dog Man stop does not qualify for a full or partial refund, as the BBQ meal is free. Patrons must follow the directions and signs to the Famous River Hot Dog Man to redeem the free BBQ meal.

PARTICIPANT - FAQ:

Q: What is the minimum age required to participate?

The minimum age required to participate on any rental is 4 years of age. Restrictions may apply during increased river conditions, but will be posted on the official website if such restrictions apply for the day. The minimum age required to participate alone is 18 years of age. All participants under the age of 18 must have an adult or legal guardian accompany the minor on the river adventure and have an adult or legal guardian sign a waiver form. In some cases, there can be exceptions, but this must be cleared with Delaware River Tubing Management prior to admission and with a written letter of consent from a legal parent or adult guardian.

Q: Who should not participate on the river ride?

We recommend that anyone who cannot swim, are under the age of 4 years old, those with serious physical disabilities, women whom are pregnant and people with a fear of water do not participate on this river ride. Although life jackets are mandatory and provided to all of our guests, the Delaware River is a natural waterway. Please enter at your own risk and be aware that you will be immersed into Mother Nature.

Q: Do I have to complete a waiver form?

All participants must complete a waiver form to participate. Anyone 17 years of age and younger must have a legal parent or adult guardian who is at least 18 years of age complete a waiver form for minors to participate. You can download a Waiver Form for adults and minors on our Waiver Form Page.

Q: Is this a guided or unguided trip?

Delaware River Tubing trips are all unguided, however if you'd like a guide for your group of 20 or more participants, special arrangements can be made. Simply call us at 908-996-5386 or email us at info@delawarerivertubing.com if you'd like to have a guided group trip.

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THE RIVER RIDE - FAQ:

Q: How often do shuttle buses leave to and from the river?

There is no set schedule for the shuttle buses to or from the river. Shuttle buses usually leave every 10-15 minutes, based upon how busy it is at Delaware River Tubing. For departing river trips, you can arrive anytime between 10am to 3pm on weekdays and between 9am to 4pm on weekends during the regular season schedule. The reason the last trips go out at 3pm or 4pm is because it takes a few hours to complete the trip after you enter the river. Patrons usually can stay on the river until 7pm-8pm during the regular season. Pre/Post season hours have a limited schedule, so please check the Hours Page to determine when to arrive for the day you want to visit Delaware River Tubing.

Q: What should I bring with me when visiting Delaware River Tubing?

For a list of items to bring and items not to bring, please view our Check List Page. At the bare minimum, footwear is required and we recommend wearing a bathing suit during the trip. Bring an extra set of clothing for when you return and use our complementary changing buses to change into dry clothing afterwards. It's also highly recommended to bring sun block (Please only use eco and animal-friendly sun block), sunglasses, hat and some extra snack money in case you want extra snacks at the Famous River Hot Dog Man.

Q: Can we bring coolers or alcohol?

Delaware River Tubing takes pride in keeping the river clean. Food and beverages are provided for your group at the Famous River Hot Dog Man, where you can eat and safely dispose of any waste. Coolers are only allowed if you have special dietary requirements or would like to bring bottled water. Please always remember to bring all waste with you off of the river and to leave the river cleaner than when you entered. Alcohol is strictly prohibited for your safety and to keep the river clean. Delaware River Tubing reserves the right to inspect all coolers and deny entry to any person who appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Not only is it safer, but the river adventure is something that you do not want to forget and is best enjoyed with a clear mind.

Q: How long are the river trips and what level of difficulty is the ride?

The actual distance of the river ride is approximately 5-6 miles. In a tube or raft, it usually takes 3-4 hours to complete the trip. In a canoe or kayak, it usually takes 2-3 hours to complete the trip. The average depth during regular river conditions is 2-4' deep for the majority of the trip, but some areas can be 10-12' deep. When river levels are higher than normal, the average depth can vary based upon how high the water levels are. This is a beginner-level river ride, but can also be enjoyed by river professionals and tubing veterans.

Q: What is the average temperature of the water?

The temperature of the water varies based upon the time of year. During mid-May and early-June, the temperature usually averages in the mid 60's to mid 70's range. In July, August and early September, the water temperature usually averages in the low 80's to high 80's range. From mid-September to the end of October, the water temperature drops back down to the mid 70's to mid 60's range.

Q: Are there rapids in this section of the river?

Yes, there are rapids. The first half of the river ride is lazy and calm. There are some "ripples" along the water, but for the most part, the river ride is very calm. After your group redeems the free BBQ meal at the midway point on the river at Adventure Island, the second half of the trip has 6-7 sets of Class I rapids, which are beginner level on a Class 1-5 difficulty scale. They are fun to float through and will certainly cool you off during the hot summer months.

Q: Are there animals or insects that can bite or hurt me?

The Delaware River is a natural waterway that is home to many species of local wildlife, such as various fish, beavers, otters, deer, turtles, various birds and much more. There have been no cases of animal attacks, but please be aware that insects such as bees and horse flys do exist and can sting or bite, respectively. This usually isn't a problem for most guests, but please be aware if you have serious allergies.

Q: What if there's inclement weather on the day of my trip?

In most cases, if there is heavy rain or severe thunderstorms in Milford, NJ, Delaware River Tubing will close operations in the morning, but will wait until 11am to make a final judgement call on opening or remaining closed for the day. If the decision to close operations for the day is made, you will be entitled to a full refund or can change your tickets to be redeemed for another day. Please always call us at 908-996-5386 or check our website's Home Page if the weather conditions are questionable. This is so that you do not waste the time and expense of driving to our facility if closed.

Q: What if there's inclement weather while I'm on my trip?

If inclement weather occurs during your river trip, you have two options to consider: The first option is to complete the trip or wait out the storm, if the inclement weather is just rain. The second option, and recommended option if there is lightning or thunder, is to the exit the river along the NJ shoreline (Left-hand side when floating down the river) with your equipment. Bring your equipment and walk up a trail to flag down a Delaware River Tubing shuttle bus for a return ride. The shuttles scan the road along the river and will pull over for patrons in thunderstorms, lightning and other inclement weather conditions.

Food & Beverage FAQ:

Every rental includes a free BBQ meal with the Famous River Hot Dog Man at Adventure Island, which is during the river ride at the halfway point. Our tubes, directions from staff and posted signage along the river will guide your group to the Famous River Hot Dog Man. Please be aware that it is your responsibility to follow the directions and signage provided, or there will be a high possibility that you will not be able to enjoy this perk.

Q: What is included with the free BBQ meal?

The free BBQ meal includes either two hot dogs or one burger, one drink of either a Pepsi, Diet Pepsi or lemonade and a frozen Snickers, Milky Way, Twix candy bar or bag of potato chips.

Q: Do you have other options if I don't like hot dogs or burgers?

The Famous River Hot Dog Man also offers nachos and cheese, juicy veggie burgers and mouth-watering chicken breast sandwiches. Bottled water is also available.

Q: Can I swap the hot dogs or burger for one of the other options?

Yes, you can "upgrade" your meal and swap out the hot dogs or burger for a nachos and cheese, veggie burger or chicken breast sandwich for $2. The upgrade fee can be paid for on-site at the Famous River Hot Dog Man, or upon your return back to Delaware River Tubing's office with your key check number "tab.".

Q: Can I purchase more food or drinks if I want extra?

Yes, you can purchase extra food. We recommend bringing extra snack money or using your key check with Delaware River Tubing for a "tab" that can be paid for upon return.

Q: I have food allergies, so can I request to see the ingredients of the food?

Yes, please call us at 908-996-5386 and you can request a photo of ingredients or list of ingredients of the food that you are concerned about. Many people with allergies (i.e. peanut allergies) or other special dietary requirements request to see ingredients and we are happy to assist in ensuring that you have safe food to eat.

Q: Is the Famous River Hot Dog Man licensed and approved through the Board of Health?

Yes, the Famous River Hot Dog Man has a food permit, exceeds Board of Health requirements and is licensed through New Jersey. A Board of Health Official inspects the floating food stand every year and all food is brought in daily. Most food is pre-cooked (excluding the burgers, which are only cooked well-done).

Q: How do I find the Famous River Hot Dog Man when I'm on the river?

Delaware River Tubing will provided verbal instructions on how to find the Famous River Hot Dog Man, upgrade tubes have river maps etched into the tube and signage will be posted along the river with instruction on where to paddle, as there are various islands spread throughout the river trip.

Q: When do I paddle if I see a sign directing my group to the Famous River Hot Dog Man?

It is extremely important to paddle and follow directions as soon as you see signs. If you wait to paddle or do not follow instructions, you can easily miss the stop. It is your responsibility to make your best attempt to paddle over as the river has a current. Paddle early and rest easy knowing that you're about to get the best and original Famous River Hot Dog Man meal.

Q: I missed the food stop or I chose not to stop, do I get a refund or partial refund?

Sorry, but Delaware River Tubing will not provide any partial or full refunds if you miss the stop for food or choose not to stop for food. Directions, signs and maps provided on tubes must be followed, as the free BBQ meal has no monetary value for refunds. Please follow instructions and be aware of your surroundings at all times, as you are on a natural waterway.

Q: What is Adventure Island?

Adventure Island (Formally known as Resolution Island) is a private 10.7 acre island owned by the Famous River Hot Dog Man on the Delaware River. It is also where you will get to enjoy your free BBQ meal with picnic tables in the water (or on land if you prefer to stay dry). It is a great place to swim, skip rocks, enjoy the local wildlife and scenic views of the river and Devil's Tea Table cliff. Adventure Island is at the halfway point of your river adventure and is a great place to dispose of any waste or set as a meeting point if anyone in your group gets separated.

Adventure Island | Free BBQ Meal | Menu Options
River Hot Dog Man | River Map | Protecting the River

Tubing FAQ:

Tubing down the river is a fun way to cool off during the hot summer months. Delaware River Tubing is the best and closest river outfitter that can provide memorable river adventures. Here are some common questions in regards to water tubing.

Q: What level of experience should I have to participate on a tubing ride?

Tubing is perfect for beginners and professionals. Anyone 4 years of age and older can tube and tube rentals are the most popular activity at Delaware River Tubing. If this is your first time tubing, do not worry as it's very easy to learn and pick up.

Q: Will I get wet if I tube?

You will absolutely get wet and cool off! Please expect to stay wet during the duration your tube ride down the river.

Q: How much weight can your tubes handle?

Delaware River Tubing has various tubes that range in size. Standard tubes can hold up to 250 lbs. and our "upgrade tubes" can hold up to 450 lbs.

Q: What is an upgrade tube?

Upgrade tubes cost $5 extra to rent and are equiped with a headrest, handles, cup holder, river map, instructions and have triple chambers (the safest tube in the world). They have three chambers in case any one or two of the chambers somehow manages to deflate and will ensure that you float the entire trip. The mm thickness of the tube is roughly 7mm, when the standard tubes have 4mm thickness. Competitors and chain store tubes typically have a 3mm thickness. Delaware River Tubing has the best tubes in the world so you have an epic river trip.

Q: What are Stay Together Straps?

The owner of Delaware River Tubing invented the Stay Together Strap in 2011 to replace rope that people use to tether together. Rope is a very dangerous way to connect tubes because knots only get tighter when wet and when under tension. The owner noticed that when tubers whom are tied together get stuck on an obstacle, such as an underwater tree, the current will pull the tube down river, which makes it nearly impossible to untie the rope without cutting it and can be extremely dangerous in some situations. The Stay Together Strap uses clips, which get easier to unclip with tension, have the same operational ability when wet or dry and are more visible/easier to see when in a situation where unclipping is necessary. It's always wise to avoid obstacles when floating down the river. Stay Together Straps are free to rent at Delaware River Tubing.

Q: What are tube hand paddles?

The owner of Delaware River Tubing also invented the Tube Hand Paddle, which is a paddle with a short handle. Tube hand paddles make tubing easier, especially if you have an upgrade tube and have a short reach to paddle. Tube Hand Paddles float if dropped and can be stored on each tube handle when not in use. Tube Hand Paddles are free to rent at Delaware River Tubing.

Q: Are there any restrictions when tubing?

During normal river conditions, the only restriction is that the rider be at least 4 years of age. In the event of increased water levels, Delaware River Tubing may limit the age based upon the severity of the water levels. Typically, the minimum age to tube will be 12 years of age in mid-water level stages or 18 years of age in high-water level stages. Delaware River Tubing will close in the event of dangerous flood stages. Restrictions will be posted on the Home Page of the official website if restrictions will apply for the day.

BOOK A TUBING TRIP TODAY

Tubing | Tubing Guide | Tube Hand Paddles
Stay Together Strap | River Map | Rules & Regulations

RAFTING FAQ:

Rafting down the river is a great group activity and very popular for team building. Delaware River Tubing is the best and closest river outfitter that can provide memorable river adventures for rafting. Here are some common questions in regards to river rafting.

Q: What level of experience should I have to participate on a raft ride?

Rafting is perfect for beginners and professionals. With rafts, you will stay together in the same floating boat with your group. If this is your first time, rafting a great choice if you'd rather stick closer to your group or prefer a dryer trip.

Q: Will I get wet if I raft?

You will stay dryer when compared to tubing, but you must depart from your raft at the Famous River Hot Dog Man to order your food, which is done standing in about 6-12" of water in front of the floating food stand.

How much weight can a raft carry?

Raft sizes vary, but the largest rafts can carry up to 1,200 lbs.

Q: How many riders can fit in a raft?

Rafts vary in size, but the largest rafts can carry up to 5-6 riders, depending on the size of the riders. Delaware River Tubing recommends that you rent a two person raft if you have a small party of two or a larger raft if you have 3 or more riders.

Q: Do I have to stay in the raft when I'm on the river?

You can swim if you'd like to swim and are not restricted to staying in the raft. Please be aware though that there is a current on the river and always stay close to your raft, with your life jacket on at all times.

Q: Can you teach me how to paddle if this is my first time?

Yes, any of our staff can show you how to properly paddle when on a raft. It's very important that everyone works together and we are more than happy to teach you!

Q: Are there any restrictions when rafting?

The minimum age to participate on a raft ride is 4 years of age. Rafting is usually the least restricted activity when water levels are above average and are actually the preferred and recommended rental for safety. Rafts are extremely difficult to "flip" and are the best rentals for anyone looking to keep their group together.

BOOK A RAFTING TRIP TODAY!

Rafting | Rafting Guide | Raft Fishing
Free BBQ Meal | River Map | Rules & Regulations

KAYAKING FAQ:

Kayak on the Delaware River in one of our diverse selection of kayaks either solo or with second kayaker in a tandem (two-seat) kayak. Kayaks include sit-in and sit-on-top (ocean) kayaks in single and double varieties. Kayaking trips typically take 2-3 hours to complete and are a fun thing to do in NJ, PA & NY. Kayaks are perfect for kayak enthusiasts, adventurers and for riders who wish to have the greatest manueverability on the water. Here are many common kayaking questions:

Q: What level of experience should I have to participate on a kayaking ride?

Kayaking is fun for beginners and advanced riders. You can pick up how to kayak very quickly if this is your first time.

Q: Will I get wet if I kayak?

You will stay dryer when compared to tubing and rafting, but you can get wet if you flip the kayak by going through rapids sideways, which is highly not recommended and potentially dangerous. Please also note that you must depart from your kayak at the Famous River Hot Dog Man to redeem your free BBQ meal to order your food in 6-12" of water by the floating food stand.

Q: How much weight can your kayaks handle?

Delaware River Tubing has various kayaks that can hold one or two riders. Single seat kayaks (both sit-in and ocean style sit-on-tops) can hold riders up to 300 lbs. Tandem (double) kayaks can hold 475 lbs. for sit-ins and 425 lbs. for ocean style sit-on-top kayaks.

Q: What do I do if I flip my kayak?

In the event that you flip the kayak on your river adventure, it's important to keep your feet up while lying on your back if floating through rapids or fast moving current areas. Hold onto the kayak and paddle, which will still semi-float if full of water and pass the rapids until you are in calmer water. When you can safely stand or swim to shore, bring your kayak and paddle with you. We recommend draining out water along a shore line and then re-seating yourself to resume your trip. If you attempt to drain the kayak in the middle of the river, it will be extremely difficult and hard to re-seat yourself. Always drain water by the shore line by flipping the kayak and slowly standing it up while allowing water to drain our of the drain plug holes.

Q: How long is the kayak trip?

The kayak trip usually takes about 2-3 hours to complete, based upon river conditions, weather conditions and the amount of time you spend paddling.

Q: Should I rent a sit-in kayak or (ocean style) sit-on-top kayak?

For beginners, the ocean style kayak is recommended because they cannot fill up with water and sink. If you flip an ocean kayak, you simply go to shore with the kayak, flip the kayak and re-seat yourself. More advanced riders can rent a sit-in kayak, which is harder to drain water if you accidentally fill the kayak with water, but easier to navigate with on the water. Another difference is that ocean kayaks have exposed tops, meaning that your legs will be exposed to the sun where the sit-in kayak will cover your legs, as you are sitting inside of the kayak. Make sure to wear sun block on your legs if you want to try an ocean kayak.

Q: Are there any restrictions when kayaking?

During normal river conditions, the only restriction is that the rider be at least 12 years of age if riding solo. For a double seater kayak, one rider may be as young as 4 years of age, as long as the second rider is at least 18 years of age. In the event of river flooding, Delaware River Tubing may limit the age based upon the severity of the water levels. Usually, the minimum age to kayak alone will be 14 years of age in mid-water level stages or 18 years of age in high-water level stages. Delaware River Tubing will not allow kayaks to be rented if the water levels are deemed too high to safely rent. Restrictions will be posted on the Home Page of the official website if restrictions will apply for the day.

BOOK A KAYAKING TRIP TODAY!

Kayaking | Kayaking Guide | Kayak Fishing
Free BBQ Meal | River Map | Rules & Regulations

CANOEING FAQ:

Canoeing down the Delaware River is a fun thing to do in NJ, PA & NY, especially with our river canoes. Canoes hold up to 2 riders and canoeing on the river is great excercise and perfect for team building, couples and friends. Enjoy elevated views from sitting higher up that tubes, canoes or rafts. Canoe trips typically take 2-3 hours and offer breath taking views of the Delaware River. Canoes are great for fishing because you can bring your fishing gear to fish (with valid PA or NJ fishing license) during your canoe adventure! Here are some common questions related to canoeing:

Q: What level of experience should I have to participate on a canoe ride?

Canoes are easy to learn if you're a beginner, but it's very important to briefly mention that you should never stand while in a canoe. Canoes are great for couples or a couple friends looking for a great time. You should have the ability to carry a canoe with a second person and have good upper arm strength.

Q: Will I get wet if I canoe?

Canoeing is very similar to kayaking in terms of staying dry.  You should stay dry for the most part, but in the event that you manage to flip the canoe, you will get wet. You will have to depart the canoe to order food at the Famous River Hot Dog Man in 6-12" water at the floating food stand if you wish to redeem your free BBQ meal.

Q: How much weight can your canoes handle?

Delaware River Tubing canoes can hold a weight of 800 lbs. Canoes can hold up to two riders.

Q: Are there any restrictions when canoeing?

During normal river conditions, the only restriction is that one of the riders be at least 18 years of age with the second rider being no younger than 4 years of age. In the event of river flooding, Delaware River Tubing may limit the age to participate based upon the severity of the water levels. Usually, the minimum age to canoe for both participants will be 18 years of age in mid-water level stages or not available to rent in high-water level stages. Delaware River Tubing will close in the event of dangerous flooding. Restrictions will be posted on the Home Page of the official website if restrictions will apply for the day.

BOOK A CANOEING TRIP TODAY!

Canoeing | Canoe Guide | Canoe Fishing
Free BBQ Meal | River Map | Rules & Regulations