A back ferry is a maneuver used to move a canoe laterally (sideways) across a current while moving downstream slower than the river. Unlike a front ferry, where the bow faces upstream, the back ferry is performed with the stern (back) of the canoe angled toward the upstream current.
This technique is essential for navigating obstacles, avoiding hazards, or positioning the boat for a specific river feature without turning the canoe around.
How the Back Ferry Works
The back ferry relies on the “ferry angle” and the force of the moving water against the hull.
- The Angle: The paddler points the stern toward the side of the river they want to reach. For example, to move toward the left bank, the stern must point toward the left.
- The Current: The water hits the side of the angled hull. Because the boat is angled, the current pushes the canoe sideways across the river.
- The Speed: The paddler paddles backward (reverse strokes). This slows the canoe’s downstream momentum, giving the current enough time to push the boat laterally.
Back Ferry vs. Front Ferry
Both techniques move you across the river, but they are used in different situations:
| Feature | Back Ferry | Front Ferry |
| Boat Position | Stern points upstream. | Bow points upstream. |
| Paddle Stroke | Reverse (back) strokes. | Forward strokes. |
| Visibility | Better for looking downstream at obstacles. | Better for looking upstream/holding position. |
| Control | Harder to maintain power; slower. | Easier to hold a strong angle against heavy current. |
Why Use a Back Ferry?
- Hazard Avoidance: If you see a rock or a fallen tree downstream, a back ferry allows you to scoot sideways while still facing the danger.
- Maintaining Vision: Because you are facing downstream, you can keep your eyes on the “line” you want to take through a rapid.
- Tight Spaces: It is often faster to back ferry across a narrow channel than it is to turn the entire canoe around, cross, and turn back.
- Group Safety: It allows a lead paddler to move across the river while keeping an eye on the rest of the group behind them.
Tips for a Successful Back Ferry
- Maintain Your Angle: If the current catches your stern and spins you around, you have “broken” your ferry angle. Keep your angle small (about $30^{\circ}$ to $45^{\circ}$).
- Look Over Your Shoulder: Since the stern is leading the lateral movement, glance back frequently to ensure your path is clear.
- Consistent Power: Use steady reverse strokes. If you stop paddling, the current will simply wash you downstream without moving you sideways.
- Lean Downstream: Just like in a turn, slightly tilt the canoe downstream to keep the “upstream” gunwale (edge) from catching the water and flipping the boat.
The Bottom Line
The back ferry is a vital “defensive” maneuver. It gives you the power to move sideways across a river while maintaining a clear view of what lies ahead, making it one of the most important skills for river tripping and whitewater canoeing.