Moab: 1-Hour Colorado River Speed Boat Tour

If you’re headed to Moab and craving an adventure that combines heart-pumping fun with jaw-dropping scenery, the 1-Hour Colorado River Speed Boat Tour might just be your perfect pick. Offered by Canyonlands By Night & Day, this tour promises to deliver a quick burst of excitement on the water, with plenty of laughs, splashes, and panoramic views.

What really makes this experience stand out is the skill of the guides—who keep things entertaining with loud music and lively commentary—and the sheer thrill of zipping through rapids. But, as with many water-based adventures, it’s not for everyone. You’ll need to be comfortable getting wet, and it’s best suited for those looking for a lively, fast-paced outing rather than a calm cruise.

One thing to consider: the tour is quite short at just one hour, which is perfect for a quick thrill but might leave adrenaline junkies wanting more. This activity is ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy high-energy experiences and stunning desert landscapes.

Key Points

• Short but Thrilling: The hour-long ride is packed with speed, spins, and splashdowns.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect incredible views of red rock cliffs and gorgeously rugged scenery around Moab.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Suitable for kids over 50 lbs, but not for very young children or those with back problems.
• High-Value Adventure: For $97, you get a lively, guided tour with all safety gear included—great value for an adrenaline rush.
• Wet and Wild: Be prepared to get soaked; bringing waterproof containers and dry bags is recommended.
• Experienced Guides: The guides are praised for their friendliness, humor, and ability to entertain throughout the ride.

This tour is all about the exhilaration of speed combined with awe-inspiring views. Starting just two miles north of Moab at 1861 N Hwy 191, you’ll meet your guide, listen to a quick safety briefing, and get fitted with all necessary safety equipment. The group size is small—max 20 people—ensuring you’ll get personal attention and a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour splits into two main cruise segments of roughly 30 minutes each, separated by a brief photo stop at Take Out Beach. You’ll start by heading out on the Colorado River from the initial launch point, cruising for about half an hour through the rugged canyon scenery, with the guide playing lively music that adds to the energetic atmosphere.

This first stretch is a great opportunity to take in the surrounding red rock cliffs, which glow brilliantly in the sunlight, making for fantastic photos. Many reviewers appreciated the way guides like Rory kept the atmosphere upbeat with humor and engaging commentary, making even the scenic parts memorable.

After the first cruise, you’ll stop briefly at Take Out Beach — a perfect spot for a quick photo with the river and cliffs in the background. Then, you’ll hop back onto the boat for another 28-minute ride, racing through rapids, spinning, and splashing your companions—all while enjoying more of those breathtaking views.

The Highlights and What You’ll Love

• Speed and Spins: Expect plenty of rapid acceleration, sharp turns, and even 360-degree spins that will leave your adrenaline soaring. Reviewers like Barbie mentioned that the ride “surpassed expectations,” with giggles and screams filling the air.
• Beautiful Scenery: We loved the way the red rock formations contrasted with the water, creating a vibrant palette perfect for photos. Many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to mix scenic viewing with high-speed fun.
• Music and Atmosphere: The guides play loud, upbeat music throughout, which helps keep energy levels high. This detail adds a layer of fun and makes the experience more lively.
• Safety and Comfort: All safety equipment is provided, and guides are experienced. However, be prepared to get very wet—reviewers like Carlee advised bringing dry bags and towels.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is best suited for those who crave excitement and don’t mind getting wet. Families with older children (over 50 lbs) appreciated how safe and fun it was, with many mentioning their kids loved it. However, pregnant women, people with back problems, or those over 330 lbs might want to consider other options, as the activity is quite energetic and wet.

Reviewers also pointed out the importance of proper footwear—closed-toe shoes are a must—and recommended sunscreen to avoid sunburn during the sunny stretches. Cameras are allowed, but waterproof containers are advisable since you will likely get splashed or soaked.

Practical Details

The entire tour lasts about one hour, with flexible starting times depending on availability. The cost is $97 per person, which many reviewers felt was a fair price considering the thrill and scenery packed into such a short time.

Transportation to the starting point is simple—just a short drive north of Moab, and parking is conveniently available next to the Fairfield Inn & Suites. The start point is easy to find, and the activity ends right back at the same location.

What Reviewers Say

Many visitors raved about the guides, especially Rory, who was described as “an amazing guide” that made the ride even more enjoyable with his humor and personality. Several reviewers, like Robert and Kathy, mentioned the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff as adding to their positive experience.

One reviewer shared, “The driver was very entertaining and made it lots of fun,” and others noted how much the kids loved the ride. The consistent theme across reviews was how fun and memorable the adventure was, with many calling it a highlight of their Moab trip.

For $97, you’re getting a full hour of high-energy fun with all safety gear included, guided by knowledgeable and entertaining staff. The price is competitive when you consider the thrill factor and the stunning scenery packed into a small window of time.

Of course, it’s not a laid-back cruise—this is a wet, fast-paced adventure. If you’re after a peaceful float or a relaxing scenic tour, this isn’t for you. But if you’re craving adrenaline and lively entertainment, it’s an excellent choice.

This tour suits active travelers, families with older kids, or groups of friends looking for a lively outing. It’s perfect for those who want to combine scenic views with some high-octane fun. If you enjoy being on the water and don’t mind getting drenched, you’ll find this experience to be a blast.

However, those with back issues, pregnant women, or anyone sensitive to rough rides should consider other options, as the tour involves rapid turns, splashes, and some physical exertion.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 50 lbs are welcome. Many reviews mention kids loving the ride, but it’s important they’re comfortable with getting wet and high-speed turns.

Will I get wet?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mentioned that they got soaked, and some even recommended bringing waterproof containers or dry bags for valuables.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 1 hour in total, split into two main cruise segments with a quick photo stop in between.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required. Wear sunscreen and consider bringing a towel or waterproof cover for your belongings.

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

Is the guide’s commentary in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, and guides like Rory are known for keeping the energy high with humor and interesting facts.

The Moab 1-Hour Colorado River Speed Boat Tour offers a refreshing blend of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and lively fun. Perfect for those who want a quick but memorable experience on the water, it’s a great way to inject some excitement into your Moab itinerary.

You’ll love how the guides keep things entertaining, the stunning vistas of red rock cliffs, and the thrill of spinning through rapids. It’s a fantastic value for the price, especially given the enthusiastic reviews and the consistent praise for the guides’ friendliness.

Just be prepared to get wet and bring your best smile—this is one adventure that leaves you with a grin and stories to tell.

In summary, if you’re after an energetic, scenic, and truly fun water adventure, this tour is a winner. It’s best suited for active travelers, water lovers, and anyone looking to add a splash of excitement to their Moab trip.