Flat-water Compared to Whitewater
From a technical view flat-water, sometimes called black water or green water, becomes white when it is disturbed and absorbs air. This can occur from surf or waves crashing into or over rocks, waves that are breaking, or swift river water flowing over obstructions or obstacles such as dams, boulders and gravel bars. This disturbance mixes air with the water and the air makes it look white. The air quickly escapes the water as soon as the disturbance subsides. Whitewater is one of the signposts that help you understand what is under the water.
From a paddling perspective, flat-water is water that is suitable for touring boats. This flat-water could easily include some whitewater. Flat-water is usually classified as Class I or Class I-II. Flat-water could be rated Class II because of swift current, frequent strainers or other obstacles that require special maneuvering to avoid.
Whitewater is usually used to describe water that necessitates special whitewater equipment and experience. Generally, whitewater will have large waves, sharp turns and obstacles to avoid. Whitewater is usually classified as Class II or higher but could be Class I because the waves are small and hazards are few.
The “Class” system is partially subjective and therefore caution is advised. Paddling difficulty is measured with a combination of wave size, frequency of obstacles or hazards and the complexity of the maneuvering required to safely navigate.
As you can see, Class II can go either way depending on the opinion of the person rating the water. If you are touring boater, always inquire why a body of water is rated Class II and whether or not it is suitable for touring boats.
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