Floating Bar Crawl Tour

Explore Asheville’s Unique Floating Bar Crawl for $90

The Floating Bar Crawl Tour in Asheville, USA offers a relaxed way to combine river floating with brewery hopping. At $90 per person and around 4 hours long, this tour appeals to those who enjoy scenic views, craft beer, and a small-group atmosphere. With a maximum of 12 travelers, it promises an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable staff who lead the way from the river to some of Asheville’s best breweries.

This tour starts at 220 Hominy Creek Rd and ends at New Belgium Brewing Company on Craven St. It features a raft, life jackets, paddles, and a cooler with ice included, but guests bring their own beer if they wish. While the trip offers several standout stops, it’s important to be aware that transportation back to the starting point is not provided, requiring coordination for shuttle service or ride-sharing.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed at 4.5/5 from 43 reviews
• Includes a scenic float down the French Broad River
• Visits three notable stops, including New Belgium Brewing
• Small-group experience limited to 12 travelers for a more personalized vibe
• Guests can bring their own beer to enjoy during the float
• Tour duration is approximately 4 hours, with flexible timing

Starting Point and End Location in Asheville

The tour begins at 220 Hominy Creek Rd and concludes at New Belgium Brewing Company on Craven St. The meeting point is easily accessible near public transit, making it convenient for those staying in or visiting Asheville. It’s best suited for most travelers, as the physical activity involves a river float and walking to some stops, though guides provide safety equipment and support throughout.

The Rafting Experience on the French Broad River

The core of this tour is the float down the French Broad River, where guests are welcomed with an ice-filled cooler and a relaxed atmosphere. The raft is specifically a commercial one, with life jackets and paddles supplied for safety. The river ride offers beautiful views and a chance to unwind while floating at a leisurely pace, making it a perfect activity for a warm day.

While some reviews suggest the float is relaxing, others note that the water activity aspect may not be very intense. However, the focus remains on scenic enjoyment and social drinking, rather than adventure sports. The float is designed as a laid-back experience, with stops at notable Asheville breweries along the way.

Stops at Asheville Breweries and Food Trucks

The tour makes three main stops:

• Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins: This spot along the river features a great selection of affordable craft beers. Guests relax on the deck, enjoying their drinks and the peaceful river surroundings. The admission here is free, and the stop lasts approximately 30 minutes.

• New Belgium Brewing Company: The tour culminates at this popular brewery, where guests sample beer and enjoy food truck options. This stop lasts around 45 minutes and offers a chance to taste some of Asheville’s celebrated craft beers in a lively setting.

• Wedge at Foundation: Known for amazing craft beer, this stop also lasts 45 minutes. It provides opportunities to explore local brews further and soak in the brewery atmosphere.

These stops are lauded for their quality beers and welcoming environments. The brewery visits are a highlight, offering a chance to taste the local craft scene and enjoy good food alongside your drinks.

Practical Details About the Tour Logistics

The tour features a mobile ticket, making it easy to access and flexible for planning. The maximum group size of 12 ensures a more personalized experience, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking.

Guests are advised to bring some beers for the cooler if they wish to enjoy additional drinks during the float. Note that alcoholic beverages are not included in the price. The tour does not provide transportation back to the starting point; guests need to arrange a shuttle or ride-share, especially since the distance is about 4 miles from the finish to the start.

The tour operates in good weather, with a full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance. It’s suited for most travelers, with most participants able to join, though physical mobility and comfort with water activities should be considered.

The Guides and Their Role

Guests frequently praise the guides, with Cody, Walker, Rachel, and Tim receiving particular mention for their friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging manner. They lead the group through each stop, ensuring safety and making the experience enjoyable. The guides also enhance the tour by sharing local insights and creating a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

Balance Between Relaxation and Adventure

The main emphasis of this tour is relaxation: floating down the river, sampling beers, and enjoying Asheville’s scenic views. While some reviews note that the float itself is leisurely and not overly active, the stops at breweries provide more lively social moments.

It’s clear this tour is best suited for those looking for a gentle day of river relaxing and beer tasting. If you’re expecting a high-energy water adventure or a full pub crawl with frequent stops, this tour might be more laid-back than some prefer. However, if you value small-group intimacy, scenic float moments, and quality brewery visits, this experience delivers.

Honest Insights: Strengths and Considerations

The small-group size enhances the experience, making it feel personal and engaging. The quality of beer stops, especially New Belgium, is highly praised. The scenic float offers a peaceful way to enjoy Asheville’s natural beauty, with guides who know the area well.

Nevertheless, the lack of transportation back is a consideration for some. The float duration and stop times are well-balanced, but guests should be prepared for some walking and coordination for post-tour logistics. Plus, the water activity may not suit those seeking an adrenaline rush but suits visitors wanting a relaxed, social day.

Who Will Love This Tour

This Floating Bar Crawl Tour is ideal for beer lovers who enjoy scenic outdoor activities and small-group socializing. It’s perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers who want to experience Asheville’s craft scene in a laid-back setting.

Those interested in a unique way to see the river and sample local brews will find it especially appealing. It’s less suited for guests seeking a fast-paced or highly adventurous water activity or those uncomfortable with walking or shuttle logistics.

Final Thoughts on the Asheville Floating Bar Crawl

The $90 price tag reflects a well-rounded experience that combines scenic river floating with brewery visits in Asheville. Its small-group format and excellent guides help create an engaging, personalized atmosphere. The stops at Wrong Way River Lodge, Wedge at Foundation, and New Belgium Brewing showcase some of the best local craft beers.

While the float is relaxed and not very water-intensive, the tour offers a charming way to explore Asheville’s natural beauty and beer culture in one outing. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a laid-back pace, scenic views, and quality brewery experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but guests should be comfortable with walking and water activities. It’s a relaxed experience suitable for families and adults alike.

Can I bring my own beer?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own beers to put in the cooler provided during the float.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in good weather, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

How do I get back to the starting point after the tour?
Guests need to arrange their own shuttle or ride-share service, as transportation back is not included.

What makes this tour unique compared to typical pub crawls?
The combination of river floating and brewery stops creates a relaxed outdoor experience that blends nature with craft beer tasting in a small-group setting.

Are guides knowledgeable about Asheville?
Yes, guides like Cody, Walker, Rachel, and Tim are praised for their friendliness and local insights, enhancing the overall experience.