Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Commonly Asked Questions
We’ve organized answers to the most common questions about profiles, finding people, and connecting with the paddling community.
Don’t see your question here? We’re always adding more. Just send us a note at hello@rallycrew.com and we’ll point you in the right direction, or add your question to the list.
RallyCrew Basics
Is RallyCrew really free?
Yes. Creating a profile, connecting with other paddlers, messaging, joining groups, and finding events are all free. Some events or courses listed by providers may have a fee, but using RallyCrew itself won’t cost you anything.
Who is behind RallyCrew?
RallyCrew was created by paddlers, for paddlers—specifically by Deborah Kane, a whitewater kayaker who got hooked on the sport later in life and wanted to build a better way for paddlers to connect. A small but mighty team of developers, designers, and fellow boaters is helping bring the vision to life. Learn more on our About page.
Why does RallyCrew exist?
Because staying connected in the paddling world shouldn’t mean juggling Facebook groups, WhatsApp threads, and random spreadsheets. RallyCrew was built to make it easier to find trip partners, discover events, share your story, and support paddlesport providers, all in one place.
Is RallyCrew just for kayakers?
Not at all. RallyCrew is for all kinds of whitewater paddlers—kayakers, packrafters, SUP’ers, canoeists, IK users, rafters (paddle and oar rigs), slalom racers, squirt boaters, and more. If you love moving water, you’re in the right place.
Is this only for people who paddle Class IV and V?
Definitely not. RallyCrew celebrates paddlers of every comfort level, Class II and Class Fun included. Whether you’re new to the sport or decades in, your experience matters here.
Can minors use RallyCrew?
We want to create a safe space for young shredders. Minors must have consent to create an account and should only interact on the platform with adult oversight. We’re building RallyCrew to be a safe and inclusive space for paddlers of all ages.
How is my data used?
We respect your privacy. Your data is never sold. For full details, check out our Privacy Policy.
Will there be a mobile app?
Yes! RallyCrew works great on desktop and mobile browsers, and our full mobile app is launching soon. Stay tuned for updates.
What if I have feedback or a feature request?
We’d love to hear it. Send us a note at feedback@rallycrew.com. Many of our best ideas have come from paddlers like you.
Paddler Profiles
Should I create a profile for myself or for my business?
Profiles are for people. If you're part of a paddlesport business, create your own personal profile, then create a Business Listing for the organization you represent.
Is my profile information public or private?
Your profile is public. However, only your RallyCrew friends can see your Trip Logs and Posts.
Do I have to answer every question?
Not at all. Answer only the questions that feel relevant or comfortable. Unanswered questions won’t appear on your profile. That said, if you’re hoping to meet new paddlers or expand your network, we recommend filling out key questions like your comfort level, types of runs you know well, and boating goals. Think of your profile as a paddling calling card—it helps others get a sense of your boating style.
Can I update my profile later?
Yes! You can edit your profile anytime. Just head to your profile, click the three dots by your name, make your updates, and hit save.
How do I search for other paddlers on RallyCrew?
You can search by name or use filters to find people based on:
Location
Member type (Paddler, Pro, Instructor or Coach, Content Creator, etc.)
Type of watercraft
Comfort level (Class I–V)
If I skip the question about comfort level, can people still find me?
Yes, but you won’t appear in searches that include comfort level as a filter. For example, if you’re a kayaker in Georgia but don’t list your comfort level, you’ll appear in searches for “kayakers” or “kayakers in Georgia” but not in “kayakers in Georgia who paddle Class II.”
What if I have a certification that’s not listed in the dropdown?
Let us know! Send a note to hello@rallycrew.com and we’ll do our best to get it added.
Can I use RallyCrew if I’m brand new to paddling?
Absolutely. Whether you’ve never paddled whitewater or you’re just starting out, RallyCrew is for you. You can share your goals, find beginner-friendly runs, and connect with instructors or mentors. Every paddler started somewhere.
What if I guide trips and paddle recreationally—do I need two profiles?
Nope. Just one profile! You can reflect both sides of your paddling life in your answers. Use the open-ended fields to clarify that you’re both a recreational paddler and a professional guide, coach, or instructor.
Can I hide part of my profile or make it visible only to friends?
Not yet. Profiles are public, but we’re actively exploring privacy controls for specific fields. In the meantime, only share what feels right for your comfort level.
What if I don’t want to be contacted by certain people?
You can block individual users if needed. We’re building additional safety and privacy tools to ensure RallyCrew remains a respectful and inclusive space.
Is there an etiquette for reaching out to people I don’t know?
Yes! When messaging someone for the first time, especially if you’re asking to join a trip or borrow gear, be respectful and clear about your intent. Tell them what you saw in their profile that made you reach out. And remember—it’s always okay for someone to say no.
How do I become more discoverable on RallyCrew?
Filling out more of your profile (especially searchable fields like comfort level, watercraft type, and certifications) helps others find you. You can also post in groups, list events, and add trips to increase visibility.
Why does RallyCrew ask about swiftwater rescue training?
Because it saves lives. RallyCrew encourages all paddlers to complete a swiftwater rescue course. That field helps paddlers assess group safety and plan appropriate trips. Not certified yet? Check the Events section to find a training near you.
I’m not currently paddling due to injury/life/work. Should I still create a profile?
Yes! Even if you're off the water for now, RallyCrew is a great way to stay connected, offer support, or plan future goals. Just note your current status in the "Your Story" section.
What’s the difference between the Paddlers section and my Friends list?
The Paddlers section shows everyone on RallyCrew. Your Friends list shows just the people you’ve connected with.
What’s the “Comfort Zone” field and why does it matter?
This field tells others what kind of whitewater you paddle most often. It powers trip invites and search filters. So be honest about your everyday comfort level, not your aspirations.
What’s the benefit of sharing my “Know Well,” “Step-Up Runs,” or “Boating Goals”?
These help others understand where you are in your paddling journey. They're especially useful for finding good trip matches or mentorship opportunities.
What’s the “Your Story” section for?
This is your chance to share your vibe—your favorite rivers, how you got started, or what keeps you coming back to the water. It’s where personality shines through.
FRIENDS
How will I know if someone sends me a friend request?
You’ll get a notification via the bell icon (upper right corner). You can also check the Requests tab in the Paddlers section—next to “Friends” and “All Paddlers.”
What can my friends see or do?
Friends can message you and view your Trip Logs. Also, only posts from your friends will appear in your feed.
Can I unfriend someone?
Yes. You’re always in control of your connections.
Will someone know if I decline their friend request?
Nope. Their request will remain in “Pending” status and they won’t be notified that it was declined.
BUSINESS LISTINGS
My business does several things. For example we rent boats, provide instruction, and offer guided tours. Can I list multiple business types?
You can select up to 5 different business types when creating your Business Listing.
I created a Business Listing but now I want someone else to have access to it and manage it. Can I change who “owns” the Business Listing?
Yes. You can remove yourself from a Business Listing and transfer ownership to another RallyCrew user at any time. Just send an email to hello@rallycrew.com and we’ll take care of that for you.
I created a Business Listing but now I want someone else to have access to it and manage it. Can I change who “owns” the Business Listing?
Yes. You can transfer ownership to another RallyCrew user. Just email us at hello@rallycrew.com and we’ll help make the switch.
Can multiple people manage a single Business Listing?
Not yet.
How do I make sure an event I create is linked to my business?
When creating an event, you’ll be asked to select an associated business or organization. Choose your Business Listing from that dropdown. This ties the event to your business and helps paddlers discover what you're offering.
Can I feature products or gear in my Business Listing?
You can feature whatever you want, and you can also provide a link to your shop or website. And if you run events, consider posting that under Events.
I don’t see a business category that fits what we do. Can you add one?
Probably! Drop us a note at hello@rallycrew.com and tell us what you’d like to see added.
Creating Events
Who can create events on RallyCrew?
Anyone with a RallyCrew account can create an event.
What kinds of events should I list?
If it’s paddling-related and others are invited, list it! Skills clinics, river cleanups, film screenings, races, gear swaps, social paddles, multi-day trips are all welcome.
Can I charge money for my event?
Yes. You can list free or paid events. If you’re charging a fee, include a link in the event description to your payment or registration page.
How do I make sure my event is tied to my business?
When creating your event, choose your Business Listing from the “Organization” dropdown. This helps boost visibility and ensures your event appears under your business page.
Can I edit or delete my event after it’s posted?
Yes. Navigate to your event, click the three dots, and select “Edit” or “Delete.”
Can I post a private or invite-only event?
At this time, all listed events are public and visible on the RallyCrew map and calendar. We’re exploring private event functionality in future updates.
Finding Events
Where do I find events happening near me?
Go to the Events section in RallyCrew. You can filter by location, event type, or date.
Can I search for events in other places if I’m traveling?
Absolutely. Use the location filter to find events all over the globe.
What types of filters can I use to find events?
You can filter by:
Date
Location
Type of event (clinic, social paddle, cleanup, race, etc.)
Type of watercraft (kayak, raft, SUP, etc.)
Skill level (where applicable)
Can I see who’s attending an event?
Some events may show attendee lists, depending on how the organizer set it up. You can always message the organizer if you have questions.
What if I want to add the event to my calendar?
Each event includes an “Add to Calendar” option so you can sync it to your personal calendar.
I found an event I love! Can I share it?
Yes! Every event has a share button so you can spread the stoke.
Photo Credit: Seth West
What’s RallyCrew
Like a giant online eddy, RallyCrew is your digital home for whitewater boating: find fellow boaters, plan trips, and discover courses and other events—all in one place.