Martha Brae River: Bamboo Rafting Tour with Pickup & Local Captain

Summary

Jamaica’s Martha Brae bamboo rafting with music, riverbank fruit and local stories

You’ll float down Jamaica’s Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft with a local captain guiding you — there’s time for music, fresh fruit from riverbank vendors, and even steering your own raft if you want a photo. Expect laughter, quiet moments surrounded by lush greenery, and an easy pickup so you don’t have to worry about logistics.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the raft to feel so steady under my feet — I guess I pictured something wobblier, like those cartoons. Our captain, Devon, just grinned and handed us a cold drink before pushing off from the bank. The water was this milky green, kind of hypnotic, and you could hear crickets somewhere in the trees even though it was just past noon. I tried steering for a second (Devon insisted), but mostly just spun us in circles while he laughed and said something about “city hands.”

There’s this moment halfway where everything goes quiet except for the pole scraping against the riverbed and some reggae drifting from another raft upstream. We passed a couple of women selling mangoes — one waved with her whole arm, like she knew everyone who floated by. Devon pointed out some plant whose name I’ve already forgotten (something that keeps away mosquitoes?), and then let us just drift for a bit. The air smelled sweet, almost grassy, and I kept thinking how far it felt from the busyness of Montego Bay.

We stopped at a little spot on the bank where you could buy souvenirs or grab more fruit. I bought something wooden — not sure what animal it’s supposed to be, but it sits on my desk now. The hour went fast; honestly, I wanted it to last longer. There was this weird mix of feeling relaxed but not wanting it to end yet — maybe that’s just what happens when you’re floating through Jamaica with nothing to do but listen to stories and try not to drop your phone in the river.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bamboo rafting on Martha Brae River

• Meet local bamboo raft captain
• Raft downstream for one hour
• Enjoy lush vegetation and nature sounds
• See and eat fresh fruits
• Buy souvenirs on river banks
• Drive to pickup clients at finish area

Top questions

How long does the Martha Brae bamboo rafting tour last?

The rafting experience lasts at least one hour downstream on the Martha Brae River.

Is transportation included in the Martha Brae River tour?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle pickup is included in your booking.

Can children join the Martha Brae bamboo rafting tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are available.

How many people fit on each bamboo raft?

Each bamboo raft holds two persons plus the local captain.

Will we have a chance to steer or guide the raft ourselves?

Yes, there is an opportunity for guests to guide their own raft briefly for photos.

Are there stops along the Martha Brae River for souvenirs or snacks?

You can stop along the riverbanks to buy fresh fruits or souvenirs during your rafting trip.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No lunch is included; however, you may purchase fruits along the riverbanks.

Where does the Martha Brae River tour start and finish?

The tour starts at Martha Brae River; after rafting downstream, your driver picks you up at the finish area.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from your location, all fees for your private bamboo raft piloted by a local captain (for two people), opportunities to buy fruit or souvenirs along the riverbanks during your float downstream, plus return transport from the finish point back to your starting place.