Although check in was a bit haphazard and seemed like some participants didn't take it too seriously, I can see why it took the organizers a while to get our bus organized. In the end, we did make it out of there and on our way in the bus. Not a very long trip to get up to Moccassin Creek and the bus was backed up and they had the raft ready for us in no time. Did the 9:30am trip and although it was a cold start, it ended up being nice, had the rest of the day to do more touristy things.
"Zac of all trades" (Zac F, a.k.a. Trumpet boy, a.k.a. Dad Joke King, etc...) was our guide and he was excellent. Warmed up to all of us by learning our names and did a great job of remembering them. Gave us a ton of information as we floated down the river and was an excellent ride the whole time. HIGHLY recommend if you can get him.
My wife and I were lead rowers (front of the boat) and I can't imagine doing it any other way. Need to be strong or 18+ to do this as you determine the frequency and number of strokes for the whole boat. The front is the best, and being the lead rower is awesome...put your hand up for this if you want a great ride. Downside: Wet...very wet. Cold...mostly cold.
My wife and I brought our own wetsuits, but they didn't recommend putting them on (we should have worn them) because the ambient temp was hot. What they didn't say was the water was very cold...freezing...and you will get drenched in the front of the boat many times throughout the trip. Sitting further back, I don't think there was that much worry about anything but your feet being soaked, so we would have been baking in our suits...plan accordingly.
This group of people know what they are doing, were concerned about our safety the WHOLE trip and took care of many younger children in our boat quite well, even when the parents didn't. I highly recommend this trip. The 1/2 day is fantastic.