Moab: Calm Water Cruise in Inflatable Boat on Colorado River

Exploring Moab’s iconic scenery doesn’t always have to mean hiking or jeep tours. This Calm Water Cruise in an inflatable boat offers a different perspective — floating smoothly through some of the most beautiful parts of the Colorado River. With a small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and spectacular canyon views, this experience is perfect for those seeking a relaxing yet adventure-filled outing.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its combination of stunning scenery and laid-back pace — it’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Canyonlands from the water without worrying about rough conditions or large crowds. One possible consideration? The tour lasts about 5.5 hours, so it’s a full morning or afternoon commitment. It suits travelers who love nature, photography, history, or simply want a break from more physically demanding activities.

If your idea of a memorable river adventure involves breathtaking vistas, expert storytelling, and a peaceful glide in a small group, this cruise should be high on your list. It’s best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace in a spectacular setting.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Float past iconic Canyonlands landmarks like Dead Horse Point and the Gooseneck of the Colorado River.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Cole, share interesting stories about geology, history, and the local landscape.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Intimate tours ensure personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Convenient and Flexible: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Moab make logistics easier, with options for morning or afternoon tours.
• Inclusive Experience: Water, lemonade, safety gear, and dry storage are all provided, making it hassle-free.
• Authentic Experience: Opportunities to see native art, ruins, petrified forests, and petroglyphs add depth to the journey.

An In-Depth Look at the Moab Calm Water Cruise

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The main appeal of this half-day river cruise is its focus on calm waters and spectacular scenery. Unlike adrenaline-pumping whitewater adventures, this trip feels more like floating in a moving postcard. The rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) provides a stable ride, making it suitable even for those who might be hesitant about rough waters. As one reviewer fondly put it, “It was a wonderful smooth water tour! Guides were great with information on the river, geology, and fun facts about the area.”

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins with pickup from your Moab accommodation, streamlining your day and removing the hassle of transportation. Once on the river, the guide — often someone like Cole, who is praised for his knowledgeable and engaging personality — takes you south of Moab Valley into Meander Canyon. Here, you’ll see incredible vistas of Canyonlands from a different angle, watching the landscape unfold in front of you in a peaceful, floating journey.

Throughout the ride, you’ll pass notable sights like Dead Horse Point, a famous overlook, where the views of the Colorado River and surrounding cliffs are breathtaking. The guide often shares stories about the area’s geology, Native American art, and ruins, giving you a richer understanding of this landscape.

Highlights of the Tour

• Floating past the Gooseneck: One of the river’s most iconic bends, the Gooseneck offers fantastic photo opportunities. As one guest noted, “We enjoyed cruising down the Colorado River through canyons plus a nice hike to see petrified logs.”
• Exploring Native Art and Ruins: The tour often includes stops or short walks to see ancient petroglyphs and archaeological sites, adding cultural value to the scenic experience.
• Hiking to Petrified Forest: A brief walk allows you to stretch your legs and see real petrified wood, a fascinating natural feature that enhances the trip’s educational aspect.
• Relaxed Pacing: The calm waters and small group size mean you can truly soak in the scenery, take photos, or just enjoy the quiet.

The Guides: Knowledge and Personal Touches

Reviews consistently highlight guides like Cole and Josh for their friendly demeanor, local expertise, and storytelling skills. One reviewer describes Cole as “super nice” and sharing stories about the area’s geology and history, which greatly enhanced the experience. Another appreciated Josh’s patience and engaging manner, especially when connecting with kids or explaining complex sights.

Practical Details: Logistics and Equipment

• Duration: 5.5 hours, including pickup, the boat ride, and return, which makes it a substantial half-day activity.
• Price: At $154 per person, the cost reflects a well-organized tour with experienced guides, safety gear, and convenience.
• Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, ice water, lemonade, life jackets, river bags, and waterproof camera boxes ensure comfort and safety.
• What to Bring: A reusable water bottle (refills provided), sturdy closed-toe shoes (no flip flops), and weather-appropriate clothing. A rain jacket or fleece might be helpful in spring or fall.
• Not Included: Soft drinks; you’re encouraged to bring your own if you want a wider variety.
• Group Size: Small groups mean more personalized attention and a quieter, more relaxed environment.

Safety and Accessibility

All boat trips are conducted with licensed guides, and safety equipment like life jackets is provided. You will sign a waiver, emphasizing the importance of safety precautions. The waterproof bags are excellent for keeping your electronics dry, but reviewers suggest being cautious with cameras if you’re prone to dropping or mishandling electronics.

Critical Considerations

While most guests rave about the experience, the nature of the tour — a calm water cruise — means it isn’t suitable for those seeking action or adventure of the whitewater variety. The 5.5-hour duration also means it’s not ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those less inclined to outdoor activities. Weather can occasionally impact the tour, so packing a rain jacket is wise.

Authentic Experiences from the Reviews

Guests repeatedly praise the guides, with comments like, “Our guide, Will, was knowledgeable and very engaging, especially with kids,” or “Josh made the trip both fun and educational, sharing stories about geology and local history.” The scenery often leaves visitors in awe, with descriptions like, “The views of Canyonlands from the river were incredible, far better than I expected,” or “Floating past the petrified forest was a highlight. It felt like stepping back in time.”

Many reviewers also mention the peaceful environment — no loud engines or crowds — which allows for genuine connection with nature. The small group setting is frequently highlighted as a factor that adds to the comfort and intimacy of the experience.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

In a nutshell, this Moab Calm Water Cruise is an excellent choice for travelers who value scenery, history, and relaxation over adrenaline. Its small-group format and expert guides create an intimate, educational, and visually stunning experience that appeals to families, couples, or solo explorers. The inclusion of cultural and natural sites along with the opportunity to photograph some of the best canyon views makes it a well-rounded adventure.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the most iconic landscapes of Canyonlands without the physical strain of hiking or the noise of larger tours, this cruise offers remarkable value. It’s especially suitable for those who want to learn more about the area from knowledgeable guides while floating peacefully in calm waters.

However, keep in mind that the tour’s duration and focus on tranquility might not suit those craving high-energy adventures. Also, consider weather conditions, as rain or cooler temperatures in spring and fall could impact your comfort.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Moab, making it convenient to start and end your day.

What should I bring?
Bring sturdy, closed-toe shoes (no flip flops), a reusable water bottle, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera if desired. A rain jacket or fleece could be helpful in cooler months.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, including transportation, the boat ride, and other stops.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat tour, safety gear, water, lemonade, waterproof storage for electronics, and hotel transportation.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly mentioned, the small group and relaxed pace make it suitable for a wide age range, but always check with the provider if you have very young or elderly travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

This Moab river cruise blends the beauty of Canyonlands with the comfort of small-group touring, making it a memorable and accessible way to experience the region’s stunning natural power. Whether you’re after scenic photos, educational stories, or simply a peaceful float, this trip offers genuine value and authentic adventure.