The traditional Dunajec rafting trade was organized into a guild-like association as early as the 1930s.
Rafts are constructed by lashing together five dugout canoes made from spruce or fir wood.
The Dunajec river route used for these rafts spans approximately 18 kilometers through the mountain gorge.
Rafting guides are professionally trained and perform a specific cultural role recognized within Polish heritage.
The raftsmen communicate with passengers during the journey to explain local history and geological features of the Pieniny mountains.
This site serves as the official landing point for traditional wooden raft tours operated by the Polish Raftsmen Association on the Dunajec River. The Pienińska 13 location functions as the disembarkation terminal where rafts conclude their journey through the Pieniny Gorge. Passengers exit here after traversing the river border between Poland and Slovakia. The raftsmen, known as flisacy, wear traditional folk costumes and navigate using long wooden poles to maneuver through the river's limestone canyons. The marina is integrated into the Pieniny National Park infrastructure, facilitating access to local hiking trails. The operation relies on long-standing regional traditions dating back to the 19th century. The site is situated along the riverbank at the end of the popular rafting route from Sromowce Wyżne.
The riverbank area where the rafts pull into the wooden docks with the limestone cliffs in the background.
Book your rafting journey in advance, as tickets often sell out during weekends and peak summer months.
Keep your belongings in waterproof bags, as water can splash over the sides of the wooden rafts during the descent.
Wear layers, as the temperature inside the river gorge is often cooler than in the open town area.
Do not attempt to walk along the river banks outside of designated paths, as the terrain is rugged and protected.
Operates daily from spring through late autumn; closed during winter months due to river conditions.
Remain seated while the raft is in motion and follow the raftsman's instructions for safety.
