Float the three-mile Martha Brae River on a traditional bamboo raft with a private transfer from Montego Bay. This relaxed, story-rich excursion mixes gentle river scenery, local herb lore, and easy swimming stops—ideal for travelers who want an accessible taste of Jamaican river life.
Float the three-mile Martha Brae River on a traditional bamboo raft with a private transfer from Montego Bay. This relaxed, story-rich excursion mixes gentle river scenery, local herb lore, and easy swimming stops—ideal for travelers who want an accessible taste of Jamaican river life.
The raft pushes away from the bank and the river takes over—cool shade from overhanging trees, sunlight freckling the water as the captain polishes an oar and tells the next stretch’s story. On a private Martha Brae bamboo raft tour, travelers glide along a slow, meandering river carved through limestone hills and sugarcane fields, the current nudging the raft forward while the captain points out medicinal herbs and local landmarks.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Jamtastic tours · Falmouth, Trelawny Parish
The raft pushes away from the bank and the river takes over—cool shade from overhanging trees, sunlight freckling the water as the captain polishes an oar and tells the next stretch’s story. On a private Martha Brae bamboo raft tour, travelers glide along a slow, meandering river carved through limestone hills and sugarcane fields, the current nudging the raft forward while the captain points out medicinal herbs and local landmarks.
The ride follows a three-mile stretch of river first popularized for tourism in the 20th century; guides recount the local Legend of Martha Brae while pointing out coral limestone shelves and the folded karst that shape the river’s course. Culturally, the stop at Miss Martha’s Herb Garden offers a look at traditional Jamaican herbal remedies and small craft stalls that support nearby communities.
Expect a relaxed, conversation-paced trip rather than an athletic outing—boats are 30-foot bamboo rafts steered by a single captain. Terrain at the facility includes picnic lawns, a small pool, and walking paths; the river itself provides easy swimming spots on calm days.
Practical guidance: book morning slots to avoid mid-day heat and to catch quieter water; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes for slippery gangways. Cash helps for souvenirs and tipping your captain. If you plan to swim, confirm water depth with your guide first. The tour’s private transfer simplifies logistics—drivers will pick up and return you to Montego Bay or nearby Trelawny hotels—making this a low-effort way to experience Jamaican river culture and landscape.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility to get on and off the raft
The rafting portion lasts about one hour over roughly three miles; the full excursion, including transfers and time at the facility, is about two hours.
Yes—guides often stop at calm spots for a swim, but always check depth and current with your raft captain first.
This private tour includes air-conditioned private transfer to and from Montego Bay or nearby hotels as specified when booking.
The rafting facility reports wheelchair-accessible areas and transportation options, but boarding a raft may require assistance—notify the operator in advance for accommodations.
The Martha Brae rafting experience grew into a local tourist staple during the mid-20th century; guides share oral histories and the island’s Legend of Martha Brae.
Visitors should avoid single-use plastics, follow guide instructions, and support local vendors to help sustain the river-side economy and keep the river clean.
Jamtastic tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The raft pushes away from the bank and the river takes over—cool shade from overhanging trees, sunlight freckling the water as the captain polishes an oar and tells the next stretch’s story. On a private Martha Brae bamboo raft tour, travelers glide along a slow, meandering river carved through limestone hills and sugarcane fields, the current nudging the raft forward while the captain points out medicinal herbs and local landmarks.
The raft pushes away from the bank and the river takes over—cool shade from overhanging trees, sunlight freckling the water as the captain polishes an oar and tells the next stretch’s story. On a private Martha Brae bamboo raft tour, travelers glide along a slow, meandering river carved through limestone hills and sugarcane fields, the current nudging the raft forward while the captain points out medicinal herbs and local landmarks.
The ride follows a three-mile stretch of river first popularized for tourism in the 20th century; guides recount the local Legend of Martha Brae while pointing out coral limestone shelves and the folded karst that shape the river’s course. Culturally, the stop at Miss Martha’s Herb Garden offers a look at traditional Jamaican herbal remedies and small craft stalls that support nearby communities.
Expect a relaxed, conversation-paced trip rather than an athletic outing—boats are 30-foot bamboo rafts steered by a single captain. Terrain at the facility includes picnic lawns, a small pool, and walking paths; the river itself provides easy swimming spots on calm days.
Practical guidance: book morning slots to avoid mid-day heat and to catch quieter water; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes for slippery gangways. Cash helps for souvenirs and tipping your captain. If you plan to swim, confirm water depth with your guide first. The tour’s private transfer simplifies logistics—drivers will pick up and return you to Montego Bay or nearby Trelawny hotels—making this a low-effort way to experience Jamaican river culture and landscape.