Floating Bar Crawl Tour

Looking for a way to experience Asheville’s unique blend of craft beer and natural beauty? This Floating Bar Crawl Tour offers just that—a relaxing float down the French Broad River combined with stops at some of Asheville’s top breweries. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a laid-back adventure, this tour has plenty to offer.

What we particularly like about this experience is its small-group vibe, making it feel more like hanging out with friends than a typical tour. Plus, the inclusion of a river float with a cooler filled with ice means you can enjoy chilled drinks with scenic views. On the flip side, some travelers have expressed that certain expectations—like stopping for more water-based activities—might not always be met. Still, this tour is ideal for those looking to relax, see local breweries, and enjoy Asheville’s natural surroundings in a casual setting.

If you’re someone who values authentic local experiences and appreciates a slower pace, this tour will suit you well. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore Asheville from a different perspective—floating along a lazy river with craft beers in hand.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 12 travelers
• Combines scenic river float with brewery visits
• Includes a cooler for bringing your own drinks
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts who prioritize a relaxed atmosphere
• Price offers good value for a 4-hour, alcohol-inclusive outing
• Not a traditional pub crawl—more about floating, views, and local beers

What the Tour Offers

A Relaxed River Float with a View

The tour kicks off at Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins, a charming spot along the river with a fine selection of affordable craft beers. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to unwind on the deck, enjoy your first drink, and soak in the peaceful setting. The lodge’s laid-back vibe sets the tone for the entire experience—slow, friendly, and scenic.

From there, your guide will lead you to the main event: floating down the French Broad River on a commercial raft equipped with life jackets, paddles, and a cooler with ice. The float is designed to be leisurely—think gentle currents and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. While some reviews suggest that the float itself may not involve much splashing or getting into the water, the calming river journey offers a peaceful break from Asheville’s busier streets.

One review highlights the ease of starting right on the river, noting that the gathering spot is straightforward and accessible, especially since the tour is near public transportation. Expect a gentle, scenic cruise, perfect for unwinding or catching up with friends.

Brewery Stops with Local Flavor

The tour’s second highlight is a visit to famous Asheville breweries, including the renowned New Belgium Brewing Company. Here, you’ll get to sample some of their popular brews and enjoy the vibrant brewery atmosphere. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time to taste different beers and perhaps grab some delicious food truck offerings, which many reviews rave about.

Another popular stop is the Wedge at Foundation, known for its craft beer and lively environment. With another 45-minute window, you can savor local flavors, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the ambiance of Asheville’s burgeoning beer scene.

Authentic and Personal Experience

One of the tour’s greatest strengths, according to reviews, is the small group size. With only 12 travelers max, everyone gets a more personalized experience—more time at each stop and a better chance to chat with your guide. Guides like Cody or Walker are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the day enjoyable.

What’s Not Included

While the tour provides a cooler and the raft, alcoholic beverages are not included in the price—you’re encouraged to bring your own beers to enjoy during the float and at the stops. Keep in mind, the tour does not include transportation back to your vehicle, so you should plan for a ride share or arrange your own transport afterward.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At $90 per person for about four hours, this tour offers a good mix of relaxation, scenic views, and beer tasting. When you consider the guided experience, equipment, and stops, it’s a price that few other Asheville activities match—especially ones that combine outdoor fun with local breweries.

Caveats and Considerations

Some reviews mention that the float may be less active than expected—there’s little stopping to swim or splash unless you bring your own gear and plan ahead. The tour is more about the float and the breweries than water sports. Plus, the terrain around the start and stops can be steep or slippery, and travelers should be prepared for some walking through trails or uneven ground.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for laid-back travelers who want to combine the best of Asheville’s craft beer scene with a peaceful river ride. It suits those who appreciate small-group outings, personalized guides, and scenic views—not high-energy adventures. It’s perfect for beer lovers, couples, and groups eager to explore Asheville’s local flavor in a relaxed setting.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

If your idea of a pub crawl involves hopping from bar to bar with lots of walking or dancing, this might not be your tour. Also, if you’re expecting a water-based adventure with swimming or high-energy activities, this trip might fall short of those expectations. The float is quite gentle, and the terrain around the stops can be steep or uneven, so it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

The Floating Bar Crawl Tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, craft beer, and relaxed fun. With its small-group size, attentive guides, and scenic float, it manages to strike a balance between laid-back enjoyment and authentic Asheville experiences. The inclusion of local breweries like New Belgium and Wedge makes it a highlight for beer fans, while the river ride provides a scenic backdrop to the day.

For travelers seeking a casual, unpretentious way to enjoy Asheville’s best, this tour delivers on many fronts: excellent views, friendly guides, and plenty of good beer. It’s a perfect choice for those who don’t mind a bit of walking and are ready to unwind on the water with a cold drink in hand.

If you’re after a slow-paced, intimate experience that combines nature and local flavor, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to bring your own drinks, prepare for uneven terrain, and enjoy the laid-back vibe that makes Asheville special.

FAQs

Can I bring my own beers? Yes, you can bring beers to put in the cooler provided.
Is transportation back to my vehicle included? No, you’ll need to arrange a ride-share or other transport after the tour.
How long is the float portion? The float begins right on the river after the initial meetup, lasting around 4 hours in total, including stops.
What is the group size? The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
Are children allowed? The tour is most suitable for most travelers, but specific ages aren’t detailed—best to check with Cedar Rock Adventures for age restrictions.
What should I wear? Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and possibly getting a little wet—closed-toe shoes are advisable for stops with uneven terrain.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The terrain around some stops can be steep or slippery, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility concerns.
What’s included in the price? A commercial raft, life jackets, paddles, and a cooler with ice.
What’s not included? Alcoholic beverages (which you bring), transportation back to your vehicle, and gratuities.
How far in advance should I book? On average, travelers book about 18 days ahead, so plan early for peak seasons.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a laid-back, beer-filled day with scenic views and small-group charm, this floating bar crawl hits the spot. It’s well-suited for those who like a casual, authentic experience and don’t mind a bit of walking or uneven terrain. Just remember to set your expectations: it’s more about relaxing on the river with good company and great local brews than action-packed water sports. This tour offers a genuine taste of Asheville’s outdoorsy spirit and craft beer culture—something you’ll remember long after the floats and pints are gone.