Aboard the Authentic Nevills Cataract Boat the Sandra

Canyoneers passenger Evan Kastner did an on-river interview of Greg Reiff, owner of the historic Nevills cataract boat the Sandra in July 2011. 

Greg tells the amazing story of how he came to be rowing the boat that was named after his mother and built in 1947 by his grandfather, pioneering river runner Norman Nevills. The Sandra accompanies all Canyoneers oar trips, which run in June, July, and August. 

See the dates and rates for all our 2012 Grand Canyon river rafting trips here.

August 7, 2011 Geology Special - Passenger Comments

"Best river trip ever! Enjoyed it all, from Lees Ferry to Pearce Ferry. Thanks!" -- Bill Armstrong

"We had very high expectations for this trip, and with your skill and experience, you have exceeded every one of them! Great trip!" -- Joe and Patti Venuti

"Jake, Rachael, Carolyn, and Wayne gave me a wonderful experience that framed the river, the Canyon, and the people in the dynamic of history and life on this planet. They made the trip a lifetime experience." -- Bob Willcox

"Thanks for a spectacular trip, the river, the Canyon of course, but your experience, knowledge, and your caring nature have made it a real pleasure. I have enjoyed the stories and the laughs. I am beginning to understand your passion for the Canyon. I hope to see you soon, as I expect to return." -- Sharie

"Trip of a lifetime! Canyoneers and Wayne [Ranney] made it so. Your love and respect for the river and the Canyon has been transferred to me--thank you! Jake, Carolyn, and Rachael did spectacular work attending to detail while supporting and teaching us all. I loved this trip--I will be back. Big thanks!" -- Ruth Fitch

"I have had such a terrific time. Thanks for making the experience so special--stories and anecdotes were so vivid and transporting. I have Georgie [Clark White] flipping back a 'can 'o' Coors in my mind, and Powell's unpaid crew members' disgruntlement. Colton's talk of working to reintroduce/accommodate the Humpback chub, and Brian's incredible voice and presence were serendipitous convergences. Jake is a great reader of prose. Rachael is full of enthusiasm, information and patience, and Carolyn, thanks for answering all my questions. Hope to see you again." -- Robin Fitch

"What an outstanding trip from start to finish! I felt relaxed, entertained, educated, challenged, exhausted, and exuberant. Jake, Carolyn, and Rachael were an amazing team. They worked literally from dawn to dusk, caring for us, watching out for our well-being and were great cooks and story tellers. This was one of my best vacations ever, and will recommend it to everyone." -- Dan Otchy

"It was a Grand trip. What a wonderful mix of scenery, natural history, delicious food, geo fiction, breaking of inhibitions, story telling, velvet ants, bighorn sheep, shooting stars, moonlit valleys, bucket heads, and snacks. I've learned the layer mnemonics and may even be able to explain the Canyon's formation to a gullible listener. Thanks Jake, Carolyn, Rachael, and Wayne for a truly awesome, unforgettable experience." -- Jon 

"Thank you for guiding us through the raw beauty of the Canyon. Thanks for being such adept boatmen that we passengers could hurtle through the rapids with as much confident glee as if they were a Disney ride (only much much more fun of course). And thanks for showing us magical side canyons and telling stories that made the Canyon's history come alive. Thanks for hot coffee in the morning and most excellent dinners at night--and always, thanks for all the snacks!!" -- Jennifer Fewell

"Carolyn, Jake, and Rachael, you are the A Team! I have never seen a team work so hard at anything. Thank you for making every aspect enjoyable, safe, and exciting. The rapids were great and all three of you are seriously excellent boatmen, but Jake you were an awesome leader and decision maker.  Thanks for the great food, the wonderful camping and the excellent stories! If you remember me it will undoubtedly be for the shoes--than you for the duct tape! I feel the trip has really made me come alive again in many ways, and you guys were a big enabler of that renewal. Wishing you all the best, thanks, David"

"Thank you for a great trip down the river. It was special. Wayne Ranney developed the picture of geology to living color. The crew was great, each special in their own way. You have a great system for doing the river. Thanks for making the natural a spiritual experience." -- Tom Strand

"In Hebrew there's a word, dayenu, which means 'it would have been enough'. So,

If we only had great (!!) meals and snacks, Dayenu

If we only had the boat that hugged the waves like a caterpiller, Dayenu

If we only had the Georgie story, or the groover stories, or the Powell readings, Dayenu

If we only had three highly experienced, nice, fun, interesting, friendly, and sincere guides, Dayenu

But we had it all, and the beauty of the Canyon and the camaraderie of our tripmates.

So all in all a time to remember. Thank you." -- Margie Green

"The food and selected campsites were wonderful. Amazing how you can do it so efficiently. I truly appreciated all of the special considerations as have not been my usual nimble self. The education by Wayne Ranney was invaluable! Very very impressive. I totally understand the passion and love of the canyon and all those who are dedicated to learning more and the repeat experience. Thank you all very much! It has been the highlight of my travels." -- Ann Bullwinkel

Running Lava Falls in the Historic Cataract Boat "Sandra"

The water that is released from the Glen Canyon Dam is ice cold.  The temperature hovers around 48 degrees.  Even on the hottest day at the bottom of the Grand Canyon getting splashed by it will take your breath away.  It’s so cold that it’s been known to cause hypothermia, heart attacks and even death.

The day we approached Lava Falls rapid it was hot.  As we rounded the corner I could hear the roar of the falls.  It sounded like a locomotive headed at us.  We headed to the scouting point on the left bank.  The guides and passengers scrambled up the rocks for a better view.  A plan was devised.  We would plan to enter left, but not too far left as rocks and a hole lurked.  The real concern, however, was the massive ledge hole in the middle of the run.  If your boat or raft enters this hole no good will come of it.  Simply flipping your boat and sending you on a swim in the icy waters are the least of your worries.  A phenomenon known as “window shading” can occur.  A boat can be turned sideways and then be repeatedly flipped over and over again as the hydraulics of the water can rip and shred the rubber from the frame.  

Did I mention we would be riding down in a fully restored 15 ft. wooden cataract boat?  The “Sandra” built in 1947 by Norm Nevills would be piloted by Greg Reiff, grandson of the pioneer boat builder.  The “Sandra” is 5 ft. wide at its stern and has been restored to its original condition.  

So, we climbed into the boat.  Greg Paulin was in the fisheye position in the front of the boat.  Greg Reiff was piloting in the middle and I would be in the queen seat leaning into the waves to help balance the boat and bailing water as needed.  As we pulled away from shore Greg Reiff turned to me and we shared a joke and a smile. Then, he pivoted around, sat down, and began to row.  We headed into what seemed like the eye of a hurricane.  The water was big.  The river is running at 24,000 CFS [cubic feet per second].  Greg maneuvered the “Sandra” and hit his line perfectly.  We ran between the two holes.  The boat was hit from the left by a large wave, we pushed through.  Then, the second wave hit, also, from the left.  The “Sandra” met it head on and strained past it.  Greg Reiff worked to pivot the boat in the direction of the third wave.  This, the biggest of the 3 waves would come from the right.  We leaned and the “Sandra” never flinched.  

We came through Lava safely.  We were excited, relieved and even a bit giddy.  Greg pulled the boat into an eddy on the left side so we could bail and check the progress of our fellow boatsmen.  It was at this point I noticed I was knee deep in water and completely soaked from head to toe.  They say the water of the Colorado is frigid.  It can take your breath away.  Mmmm…I hadn’t noticed.

-- Jenny Crownhart, Flagstaff, Arizona

July 14-26, 2011 Oar Trip Comments

Cliff Ghiglieri and Amity Collins at the Diamond Creek take-out

I'm old and gray

And my bones creak

And I say to myself

What a wonderful trip

And I say to myself

What a wonderful world!!!

Thanks a lot for all your help

--Bob Eckhardt

"I've done amazing things in my life, but have to say this one was absolutely memorable. 'The River' is a metaphor for life--just go with the flow and see what creation brings you! Thank you to all for taking such great care. Our new grandbaby's name is Crew (boy or girl). Seems rather fitting [to be named after the Canyoneers river crew]!" --Deb Riise

"Ditto; ain't she something. Life's journey gives us so many gifts--just so long as we listen, feel, engage, account and give back. Thank you for the gifts." --Phil Riise

Every rapid became more awesome
Every day was filled with new adventure
Every hour, every turn added new excitement
The Canyoneers staff was always positive and upbeat
The Sandra only made the experience more unbelievable
Thirteen days of heaven in AZ

Thanks for everything. --Charlie Frazier

"30 years of waiting and well worth it--chose the right company/guides for sure. Wonderful trip, food, etc. Trip of a lifetime. Thanks." --Leitha Steed

Beavertail prickly pear cactus fruits at Diamond Creek.

"It's been nearly 7 years since I've been in the Grand Canyon, and I must say that this was a tremendous welcome back party! You guys are awesome in so many ways its hard to think of them all. Master boatmen, master chefs, master storytellers, and master wilderness explorers. As a graduation trip, I couldn't be more satisfied with my experiences. This is something I shall never forget. Thanks Canyoneers! P.S. OMG I'm in the GC, LOL!" --Alex Shen

"Fantastic trip! My wife and I enjoyed it immensely! Great crew! Find food, hikes, scenery, excellent rapids. I'll always remember Lava Falls in the Sandra! Thank you sooo much." --Clint and Leitha Steed

"This is the most wonderful trip I have ever had in my life. It included wonderful views and people. I am so thankful to all the Canyoneers staff, because they made this trip perfect. I'd especially like to thank Greg [Reiff], who offered everyone a great experience in his Sandra boat, which was one excellent boating experience, and I hope the boat will be continuously offered to all passengers. I surely will recommend to my friends...to come on this trip next year. Thank you John [Crowley], Trip Leader, for leading us to all the unique and fantastic hikes. I will never forget the trip. I will have to use my native language [Chinese] here [Thanks to your boat team]. Goodbye, Canyoneers and Sandra. I will see you again!" --Linda Shen

Isaac Sullivan-Leshin and Tom Jones

"Thank you for making this rafting/camping trip possible. I had a wonderful time on the river and on the hikes. This trip was really worth hiking 8 miles down into the Grand Canyon. Everything here was fantastic. The food, the rafting, the view; and the guitar songs were amazing. I would also like to thank Greg 'Greiff' for letting me fisheye on the Sandra. Thank you Canyoneers crew!" --Brenda Shen

"Great trip. Great people. Great experience! I'm hooked on the Sandra with its history, beauty and great ride. By the time you read this, you will have my reservation in for my fourth trip next year. Can't wait." --Bob Wyatt

"To say I had a good time would be the grossest understatement. I don't know if I could put enough superlatives on this page.

It was a religious experience seeing and experiencing the Canyon from the river. I've been here seven times previously, but never on the water before.

The heart of this trip is surely the people of Canyoneers who extended themselves way beyond the mere performance of their jobs. They wanted to be sure we all left the river and Canyon loving it as much as they do. I also greatly enjoyed the quietness of the oars. They much enhanced the message of the Canyon, the leaving behind of the clutter and noise of civilization and the spirit of adventure. Thank you for making this possible. I'll be back." --John Kastner

Greg Reiff and Bob Wyatt get the Sandra ready for the ride home.

"We had a great time. Everybody at Canyoneers was great. Of course, we loved the rafting but the explanations of the geology, history, and native plants and wildlife was excellent. We liked the hikes so much that we might take it up as a hobby! Boating on the Sandra was like being part of the history--plus it was very fun. The food exceeded expectations by a mile--very tasty. Thanks for some great memories." --Tony and Pam Crawford

"Had a fantastic time! Exceeded every expectation I had! The staff's knowledge and professionalism was the biggest asset on the trip. The Canyon knowledge and introduction to Val and I was not only necessary but made us want to come back for the lower Canyon.

The day on the Sandra was so enjoyable and educational. What a special part of the trip...peaceful, relaxing, and fun. John [Crowley] and staff were awesome! We will be booking the lower half shortly!" --Russ and Val Schumacher

Ocotillo leafed out, Diamond Creek

"It is with sadness that our vacation is ending tomorrow. We have had the most amazing time on our trip on the Upper Grand. All of the guides have been outstanding. The food has been yummy and the whole experience has been top notch. We will depart with great memories and much regret that we can't do the whole 13 days.

While I hesitate to single anyone out since all the staff has been great, I would like to highlight our tour leader, John Crowley, and Greg Reiff. John is clearly a top notch professional and gave us all a lot of confidence that we would have fun and be safe.

Greg and my day on the Sandra was the highlight of the trip. Greg showed great enthusiasm for the history and was super knowledgeable. My ride on the Sandra was insane. It will be something I will share with all my friends. We will be back!" --Derrick Oien

From the Week of July 10-16, 2011

"This trip exceeded my expectations, and because of Brandon, Ethan, Drew and Tom, I've had what I know will be one of the greatest adventures of my lifetime. The hospitality and generosity made it possible for me to feel save and comfortable in a dangerous environment. Brandon's storytelling abilities made the Canyon come alive with spirits of great adventures, boatmen and cowboys of the past. He was able to provide me an authentic, traditional, commercial-free type of trip I hoped I would experience. Thanks for  EVERYTHING." --Angel, from the July 10, 2011 All the Grand 7-day motorized trip

"This trip was much more than a vacation to me -- it was also a great opportunity to learn about nature, ways of life in the Canyon, and to detach from the world for a while. All of those things and so much more created an experience beyond my hopes. The reason my week was so amazing is attributed to Brandon, Ethan, Drew, and Tom, and in particular Brandon. We were so well cared for and made to feel safe, yet encouraged to have fun and take some chances to expand our thinking. They were very professional and knowledgeable and particularly accommodating to our needs. The Grand Canyon was spectacular but the trip was amazing because of the Canyoneers team. I'll recommend this trip to anyone I can. Thanks for a great adventure that I will always remember and treasure." --Tricia Pettinati

The Crew Was Exceptional

"Imagine, two glorious weeks on the river in Grand Canyon, running every rapid, with perfect weather, passengers, and crew. Thanks to Joy, Sheri, John, Steve, and Zoe for setting it up and allowing us to 'customize' our trip and group.

The on-river crew was exceptional: safe, hard working, gracious, entertaining, and always available to meet our requests, however silly at times. Jamie provided strong, confident leadership, as Cliff, Cassie, Drew, Rachel, and Ethan complemented each other perfectly in skill and  personality.

Special thanks to Greg Reiff for his river passion and sharing his "Sandra" with us and everyone else on the river. Riding "Sandra" is an experience that should continue.

Dr. Tom Myers provided a comfort level for our group, both as a physician and boatman, assuring our aging participants that all aches and pains would be taken care of.

Thanks again for the trip and all the memories."

-- Bill Johnston, from the June 2011 All the Grand 14-day oar trip

>> See the passengers' own photos from the trip: http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrisinthecanyon2011/

The July oar trip is on the river now. The August trip, the "River History Special with Roy Webb" departs August 25.

A "Cream of the Crop Crew"

"For sure we are ending this river journey with lifetime memories that I will tuck away in my heart and soul forever! The beauty of the Grand Canyon is indescribable and this experience on the river is the ultimate. Our Canyoneers guides have gone to great lengths to provide an enjoyable trip with safety and many teachable moments, with focus on protecting this one-of-a-kind environment.

We have had a 'cream of the crop' crew. Add to all of this Greg Reiff, who has lovingly been called 'Rev. Reiff' because of his personal passion and enthusiasm to share the human history within those river miles. Forever grateful that he has shared the very boat, Sandra, that his grandfather rowed so many years ago. What a thrill!

I pray our children and grandchildren will someday have these same opportunities to tuck in their hearts and souls.

With love and fondest memories. P.S. I will miss the breakfast bacon and sand between my toes...."

-- Dianna Johnston

>> See the passengers' photos from this trip at http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrisinthecanyon2011/