Moab: 2-Hour Scenic Jet Boat Ride on the Colorado River

If you’re planning a trip to Moab and looking for a way to see the canyon country from a fresh perspective, a 2-hour jet boat ride on the Colorado River might just be the perfect addition to your itinerary. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, numerous travelers rave about its combination of spectacular scenery and informative guides, making it a popular choice for visitors wanting to unwind and connect with nature.

What we love about this experience is how it offers both relaxation in a stunning setting and educational commentary about the region’s geology and history. Plus, the chance to spot wildlife along the riverbanks adds a touch of unpredictability that keeps the journey lively. A minor consideration is that the boats are not covered, so you’ll want to be prepared for sun exposure and wear suitable clothing.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, enjoy nature, and want a comfortable, leisurely ride without the physical exertion of more active adventures. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an authentic, scenic experience will find this jet boat tour suits their needs well.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of towering red rock cliffs and hidden canyons.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains share engaging stories about the area’s geology and history.
• Wildlife Sightings: Keep an eye out for animals along the riverbanks, adding extra charm to your trip.
• Comfortable Ride: The boat provides a smooth experience, ideal for relaxing and taking photos.
• Flexible Timing: Tours are available in the morning and afternoon, with options to reserve and pay later.
• Good Value: At $110, the experience offers excellent scenery and education for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Moab jet boat tour is set against the rugged beauty of Utah’s canyon country, offering a two-hour cruise that covers a significant stretch of the Colorado River. From the moment you meet at the designated location just off Main Street in downtown Moab, the journey begins with a friendly greeting and a quick safety briefing. The meeting point near the Comfort Suites makes it easily accessible, and the check-in process is straightforward.

Once you’re on board, your expert captain takes the helm, guiding the boat smoothly through the river’s twists and turns. Unlike large sightseeing buses, this experience offers a close-up view of the landscape, which means you’ll want to have your camera ready. The red rock cliffs and hidden canyons are especially photogenic during the middle of the day when the sunlight hits the formations just right, illuminating their vibrant hues.

Throughout the ride, the guide shares informative insights about the geology of the region, explaining how the cliffs and canyons formed over millions of years. These anecdotes make the landscape even more fascinating, especially for those interested in natural history. Travelers have commented on how the guides are knowledgeable and fun, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Jessica, for instance, mentioned that her guide “gave us a lot of great information about the river, the canyon, and animals” and was “fun,” which elevated the trip beyond just scenery.

The scenic highlights include towering red rock formations, narrow hidden canyons, and expansive desert vistas. Photos from travelers frequently feature dramatic shots of red cliffs plunging into the river or wildlife such as birds and other creatures along the banks. This adds an element of wildlife observation, which can be unexpectedly rewarding.

A notable aspect of this tour is its leisurely pace. The ride is designed for relaxation, allowing plenty of time to take in the views, snap photos, or just enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the boat gliding over the water. As one reviewer noted, “It was a great experience, the drivers are professional and know what they’re doing. The boat trip took two hours! Everything went smoothly, we found it straight away. We would recommend it to anyone, it was simply fantastic,” highlighting the smooth and professional operation of the tour.

The Guides and Wildlife

The guides are a big part of why this tour receives such high praise. They provide not just narration, but storytelling that helps bring the landscape to life. Whether explaining how the canyon was formed or pointing out wildlife, they add depth to what might otherwise be just a pretty view. The chance to spot animals—like birds or other riverbank creatures—adds an element of unpredictability and delight to the experience.

The Practicalities: Comfort and Safety

The boat ride is coast guard approved, and each passenger receives a life jacket, which adds a layer of safety to the experience. The boats are not covered, so you should dress accordingly—think comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and potentially binoculars if you’re keen on wildlife. Be mindful that there are no bathrooms on the boat, so plan your trip accordingly.

The price point of $110 per person is quite reasonable given the quality of scenery and educational value you get. It’s a good value for a two-hour scenic cruise—especially when you consider the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the experience.

Accessibility and Limitations

The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years and people over 331 lbs (150 kg) due to safety restrictions and boat capacity. Also, since the boats are on uneven ground for boarding, some travelers with mobility issues might want to inquire further before booking. However, the average group size tends to be manageable, and the timing flexibility—available both in the morning and afternoon—helps fit the ride into various schedules.

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Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

For travelers who want a relaxing, scenic experience that combines breathtaking views with informative commentary, this jet boat ride hits the mark. It’s well-suited for those eager to enjoy nature without strenuous activity or complex logistics. Families, couples, and solo explorers who appreciate photography and wildlife will especially love the opportunity to capture the dramatic landscape from the water.

While it might not satisfy those looking for an adrenaline rush or an enclosed, shaded environment, it excels as a peaceful escape into the natural beauty of Moab’s canyon country. The combination of smooth ride, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery makes this a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to see the Colorado River from a unique vantage point.

Final Thoughts

This jet boat tour offers an affordable way to experience Moab’s iconic scenery with a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife viewing. The professional guides and beautiful landscapes ensure a memorable outing, especially for those who enjoy nature and quiet moments on the water.

If you’re visiting Moab and want to combine sightseeing with a calming, scenic cruise, this experience is a strong contender. It’s particularly ideal for travelers wanting a comfortable, educational, and visually enriching activity that isn’t physically demanding.

While it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, most other travelers will find it a perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the Colorado River and surrounding canyon formations.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 2-hour jet boat ride, an expert captain, opportunities for wildlife sightings, beverages, and a coast guard-approved life jacket.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll meet in downtown Moab, just off Main Street at 50 West 400 North, near the Comfort Suites. The location is across the street from the Broken Oar Restaurant.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, and sunscreen for protection against the sun. Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for weather are recommended. Binoculars can enhance wildlife viewing.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes. The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years and people over 150 kg (331 lbs). Due to boarding on uneven ground, those with mobility challenges should check beforehand.

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, offering plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the boat covered?
No, the boats are not covered, so prepare for sun exposure and dress accordingly.

What is the price?
At $110 per person, the tour is a good value considering the scenery, guide expertise, and wildlife sightings.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and the relaxed pace make it a favorite among travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

This Moab jet boat experience is a delightful way to see the river’s scenery without breaking a sweat. It offers a genuine chance to enjoy the landscape, learn about its geology, and perhaps spot a few animals along the way—all from the comfort of a smooth, professional boat ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: