Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes: All in the Same Boat

I consider the Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes one of the most overlooked attractions at Disneyland. Given their low capacity, that’s probably a good thing, but I still think people tend to forget about it or write it off.

 

It’s really a fun attraction, though, and it’s unique at the park because it’s the only Guest-powered attraction there. In theory, if the guests did nothing and the Cast Members in the canoe didn’t have to keep things going, everyone would just sit there. It’s also not on a track, so within the limits of what the Cast Members allow (for safety reasons, generally) the canoe can go anywhere on the Rivers of America.

 

It’s a good thing there are several guests in each canoe, because one of the unique features of that kind of watercraft is the type of paddle it uses. They are short, with a blade (the wide part) on only one end, and you only get one. That means if you want to go in a straight line you have two choices: half the people in the canoe with their paddles on one side and half on the other, or you have to constantly switch sides, first paddle on the left, then lift it across and paddle on the right, then switch back and continue. If you’re by yourself, that’s your only choice.

 

Is it possible to maneuver a canoe that way? Sure. But it’s exhausting, and you’re guaranteed to get very wet while you do it. That’s part of the value of having multiple people in the canoe. By sharing the work and each having their own task (while “all in the same boat”), it’s much easier, more efficient, and drier.

 

I’ve written before about how important it is to have other people with you in your Christian walk. This is another example of that very truth. You may be able to do it alone, but it’s hard—certainly harder than it needs to be. You need others to serve, and to serve with. To help you up when you fall and to give you someone to help. To teach you grace and truth through community with imperfect people—including you.

 

“Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

 

Question: What is one lesson being in community with others has taught you, or one way that it has helped you? Talk about it in the comments below, or on our Facebook page.