Raptor Raft

The Raptor line: the Hypalon raft built to last

A commercial operator doesn't think in terms of purchase price, but in cost per year. That is exactly the logic behind the Raptor line: Hypalon rafts (CSM-neoprene on fabric) engineered for intensive professional use, where a tube spends the whole season outdoors — full sun, sand and bank abrasion included. Well maintained, a Hypalon tube commonly lasts 15 to 25 years: spread over that lifespan, it often works out cheaper than a boat you replace every five to ten years. A French whitewater specialist since 1988, Aquadesign builds these rafts in its own factories to its own specifications, and provides parts and repairs in France.

Why Hypalon for a commercial fleet

Hypalon isn't "better" in the absolute — it's the right choice for a specific use. Its strengths matter the moment a raft works every day:

• UV resistance: the benchmark for prolonged sun exposure; the fabric doesn't degrade like a more sensitive coating.
• Abrasion and suppleness: a rubbery material that shrugs off rock and bank friction and absorbs impacts better.
• Hydrocarbons and solvents: good resistance to fuels, oils and base-side maintenance products.
• Longevity: slower ageing, a tube that doesn't turn sticky over the years.
• Repairability: cold bonding and two-part glues that form a durable chemical bond; the slightly rough surface grips the patch well — invaluable for extending a hull on a busy base.

For the detailed Hypalon-versus-PVC comparison for your operation, our rafting range sets the benchmarks. And if you're after high-tenacity PVC for lighter use or a tighter budget, look at the Avanti rafts or the Dropstitch-floor Pulse rafts.

Choosing the right Raptor size

Sizing a fleet means spreading sizes across flow rate, paddler count and descent type. The Raptor line covers most commercial needs:

• Raptor 340 — 6-person mini-raft, nimble, ideal for lighter builds, first-timers and technical rivers.
• Raptor 410 — 9 people, a versatile format for the classic commercial descent.
• Raptor 425 — 9 people, a touch more volume and buoyancy for more sustained water.
• Raptor 455 — 11 people, the large format for big groups and high water volumes.

Mixing sizes lets you host a family group or a whole class without multiplying rotations. Raptor rafts are CE-certified.

One more Hypalon model: the Falcon

The Raptor line is our broad Hypalon offer, with several sizes to build a fleet. Alongside it, the Falcon raft is another Hypalon model, offered in a 9-person format — an alternative worth considering depending on your programme. Both share the material and the long-life philosophy; the choice comes down to size and rigging.

Kitting out and securing your Raptor fleet

A raft never works alone. Complete each boat with sturdy raft paddles, raft buoyancy vests matched to your clients' builds, and the safety equipment (throw lines, carabiners, kits) expected on a base. For clubs, rental operators and local authorities, we offer professional pricing, custom options (colours, markings) and manufacturer after-sales support with a repair workshop and spare parts in France (Oraison, 04).

Why Aquadesign

Since 1988, Aquadesign has designed and developed its whitewater boats in France and built them in its own factories. In rafting, the brand is the official supplier to the World Rafting Federation: international competitions are run on French Aquadesign rafts. CE certification, spare parts, a repair workshop in France: an operator buys a boat and a long-term partner alike — whether direct or through our partner dealers.

Frequently asked questions about Raptor Hypalon rafts