Guide But Entertain! Investigating The Experiences of Rafting Tourism Participants

Mehmet Tahir Dursun; Seher Ceylan

doi:10.5281/zenodo.7130307

Authors

Mehmet Tahir Dursun Pamukkale University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3907-2469
Seher Ceylan Pamukkale University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0968-1052

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7130307

Keywords:

Rafting, Sporting events, Boat guides, Participant experience

Abstract

Rafting is within the category of water sports, making it a suitable leisure activity for both individuals and groups. The products and services provided by the rafting enterprises both promote the area's natural beauty and enable the area to grow by promoting tourism there. Rafting firms must develop their safety, sanitary, and financial aspects under the demands of the participants to provide quality services. For rafting companies to get certified, participant experiences are crucial. The assessments of people participating in rafting sports activities such as lodging, food and beverage, surroundings, and boat guides were evaluated in this study. To do this, semi-structured interviews with 23 customers of rafting companies were undertaken. Findings have shown that people value safety and cleanliness in rafting companies as well as professional boat guides and that they have bad experiences with the food, drink, and lodging services offered.

Keywords: Rafting, sporting events, boat guides, participant experience.

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