15 Mile Adventure Boat Ride

Exciting 15-Mile Adventure on the Columbia River for $100

The 15 Mile Adventure Boat Ride in Wenatchee, Washington, offers a lively and scenic 45-minute journey along the Columbia River. Priced at $100 per person, this small-group experience is ideal for those seeking a mix of sightseeing, fun, and a bit of adrenaline. With a limit of 6 participants, it promises an intimate, personalized ride led by a United States Coast Guard licensed captain.

This excursion departs from the Wenatchee Riverfront Park at the Day Moorage dock. It’s a straightforward meeting point, just a short walk from the parking lot, but arriving 30 minutes early helps ensure a smooth start. The ride is perfect for families, friends, or solo adventurers looking for a quick, memorable outing with plenty of photo opportunities and some playful twists.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes the 15 Mile Adventure Unique in Wenatchee

This jet boat ride stands out because of its focus on scenic views combined with fun. It covers 15 miles of the Columbia River, starting in downtown Wenatchee. The state-of-the-art jet boat offers a comfortable yet exciting platform for sightseeing and thrill-seeking, making it suitable for those who want a lively river experience without white-water rapids.

The journey features sights of the Rocky Reach Dam and the confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers. The boat cruises close to the dam, giving guests a chance to photograph this impressive structure and hear about its history, thanks to the knowledgeable captain. The ride also includes a return trip beneath the US 2 Bridge, revealing the natural beauty of the area and the power of the merging waters.

Highlights of the Rocky Reach Dam and the Confluence

One of the key highlights is the Rocky Reach Dam, an impressive engineering feat visible from the riverbank. The boat idles nearby, providing ample time to take photographs and learn about its significance. The confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers is another major point of interest, where merging waters create a striking natural display that underscores the area’s scenic appeal.

Guests can expect to see these sights from close range, experiencing the river’s calm stretches and some exhilarating turns. The boat’s design allows for gentle drifting, sharp fish-tail turns, and occasional “Hamilton Spins”, which are swift twirls within the boat’s own length. These spins add an element of excitement, especially for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline.

What to Expect During the 45-Minute Ride

The ride begins with a cruise northward toward the US 2 Bridge, offering views of the river and its surroundings. After reaching the dam, the boat slows down for sightseeing and photo opportunities. The journey then turns back southward, passing beneath the bridge again, heading toward the confluence.

Most of the ride involves relaxed cruising, ideal for taking in the scenery and capturing photos. However, there are moments of playful spins and turns, including fish-tails and “Hamilton Spins,” which can give a quick thrill. The loud engine of the jet boat is part of the experience, and passengers should be prepared for some splashes—getting wet is possible but not guaranteed.

Included Photos, Videos, and Safety Measures

Guests receive stunning photos and a video clip capturing their group during the ride, taken with state-of-the-art action cameras. This adds a memorable keepsake to the adventure. The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, and the captain is highly experienced, ensuring a safe, enjoyable trip.

The tour covers only the Columbia River and does not involve white-water or rapid navigation. While the boat is a mechanical vehicle, it undergoes rigorous inspection and maintenance. Still, travelers are advised to bring waterproof shoes and limit personal belongings as storage space is limited. The boat’s loud engine and occasional splashes are part of the thrill, but passengers should be aware that they may get wet.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Information and Meeting Details

The meeting point is at the Day Moorage dock in Wenatchee Riverfront Park, roughly 100 yards north of the main boat launch. The entrance can be easy to miss, so arriving early by 30 minutes helps ensure a relaxed start. Since the dock is nearly hidden from view, it’s helpful to have clear directions beforehand.

The tour operates primarily in the afternoon and can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, allowing reserve now, pay later options, perfect for planning ahead without stress.

Who Will Enjoy the 15 Mile Boat Ride Most

This small-group adventure suits those looking for a fun, scenic ride with some thrills. It’s ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers who want a short, engaging experience with photos and videos as souvenirs. The ride’s playful spins and scenic highlights appeal to those wanting a lively, memorable outing on the Columbia River.

However, the ride may not be suitable for people with back problems, pregnant women, or anyone sensitive to loud engines and splashes. It’s also not designed for eco-tour or narration, but the captain can share insights when engine noise permits and wildlife sightings are possible.

The Overall Value of the 15 Mile Adventure

For $100 per person, this 45-minute jet boat ride offers a unique combination of scenic beauty, playful maneuvering, and professional guidance. The photos and video clips, along with the chance to see iconic sites like the Rocky Reach Dam, give added value to the experience. The small group limit ensures a more personalized, engaging atmosphere.

While the ride is relatively short, it delivers plenty of fun in a limited timeframe and provides a great introduction to the Columbia River’s natural and man-made features. It stands out as a lively, well-organized adventure suitable for those seeking a memorable, family-friendly outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best for those able to handle some splashes and playful spins. Because it involves some quick turns and a loud engine, it may not suit very young children or those sensitive to noise.

Do I need to bring anything?
Guests should bring waterproof shoes. Avoid bringing large bags, food, alcohol, or pets, as these aren’t allowed onboard. A towel and change of clothes are recommended if you plan to get wet.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. The booking process also allows reserve now, pay later for flexibility.

Will I see wildlife during the ride?
While the captain can share insights, wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed. The focus remains on sightseeing of the dam, river confluence, and enjoying the ride.

Is this experience eco-friendly?
The tour does not include eco-tour components, but the boat is well-maintained and operates carefully to protect the environment.

What if I get dizzy or seasick?
Some guests have reported feeling dizzy during spins, but the captain is attentive and can stop spins if needed. Let the captain know if you feel unwell during the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby