As a first-timer, I was pretty nervous, so having a guide in our boat was really helpful. Our guide, Bob, was encouraging and gave excellent directions. My confidence grew with each set of rapids we went through. We didn't bring our phones/camera, but had an great selection of photos to choose from after the trip. The provided lunch included ham & turkey wraps, an apple, cookies and water or lemonade. Everything was fresh and tasty. We wore flip flops but choose to go barefoot in the raft. The flip flops floated freely in the raft and amazingly stayed put throughout the trip. I wish we had worn water shoes instead of flip flops especially for getting in and out of the boat for lunch and carrying the raft to the bus after the trip. This was one of our favorite experiences as a family and we will definitely be back!!!