The 2 Best 1 Hour Tours in Moab
Moab isn’t just about sprawling parks and towering red rocks; it’s also a prime spot for quick, exhilarating excursions that give you a taste of this amazing landscape in just about an hour. The Colorado River runs right through the region, offering a perfect backdrop for short but memorable boat adventures. Whether you’re after high-speed thrills or a quick scenic overview, these 1-hour tours in Moab deliver a fun, compact burst of adventure and breathtaking vistas.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top two 1-hour boat tours. Each offers a different experience—one packed with adrenaline on a jet boat, the other a quick scenic cruise with opportunities for some memorable photos. Both are excellent options for travelers short on time but eager to see the rugged beauty of Utah’s river scenery.
Quick Overview
For those with limited time, Moab’s boat tours are a fantastic way to soak in the region’s natural beauty. The list below includes a thrilling speed boat ride and an express jet boat tour, both lasting around an hour but offering very different experiences. To learn more about each, check out the detailed descriptions and reviews.
- Moab: 1-Hour Colorado River Speed Boat Tour — a high-energy, rapid ride through rapids with plenty of laughs. []
- Moab: 1-Hour Express Jet Boat Tour on Colorado River — a quick, scenic cruise featuring views of arches and petroglyphs, with live commentary. []
1. Moab: 1-Hour Colorado River Speed Boat Tour
This speed boat tour is perfect for adrenaline junkies who want to experience the Colorado River’s rapids in a fun and exciting way. Starting at 1861 N Hwy 191, the tour kicks off with a 30-minute cruise through the river’s wild waters, where your guide will race through rapids and spin the boat 360 degrees, creating a high-octane experience. After this initial adrenaline rush, you’ll take a brief photo stop at the Take Out Beach, then continue with another 28-minute ride back along the river.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on action and fun. The boat is a jet-powered speedster capable of thrilling spins and rapid acceleration, making it an excellent choice for those wanting more than just sightseeing. The reviews highlight how much people enjoy the driver’s entertaining style and the overall “laugh-out-loud” experience. Plus, many guests end up soaked—so bring waterproof gear or plan to buy waterproof protectors on-site. It’s particularly popular with families and groups looking for a memorable blast of water-based fun.
Bottom line: If you want a fast-paced, laughter-filled adventure that leaves you soaked in the best possible way, this tour hits the mark. Expect scenic views of towering red rock cliffs paired with the thrill of racing over rapids.
2. Moab: 1-Hour Express Jet Boat Tour on Colorado River
For those pressed for time but still eager for an authentic Moab experience, this express jet boat tour offers a quick yet rundown of the Colorado River’s highlights. Starting again at 1861 N Hwy 191, the tour lasts about an hour, with a flexible departure in the morning or afternoon.
This tour includes a 15-minute cruise with live commentary that points out the notable features of the area, such as the Moab arches, Indian petroglyphs, and the Canyonlands landscape. There are several stops for photos, including Little Arch, roadside petroglyphs, and Jug Handle Arch, each lasting around 5 minutes. The boat ride itself covers the river sections between these stops, providing a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s beauty.
While the reviews are fewer, guest Rory describes the guide as “fun, informative, and a skilled driver,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a timed snapshot of Moab’s natural wonders without the adrenaline rush but with plenty of impressive views.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want a guided, scenic cruise that hits key highlights of the area, this tour offers a practical, engaging option with excellent commentary and photo opportunities.
How to Choose Between These 1-Hour Moab Boat Tours
Picking the right trip depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you crave excitement and water action, the speed boat ride offers a fast-paced, adrenaline-filled adventure. It’s great for families, groups, or anyone wanting a good laugh and some wet fun. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, scenic overview with educational commentary and photo stops, the express jet boat tour provides a quick but comprehensive taste of Moab’s iconic natural features.
Price-wise, the speed boat tour is slightly cheaper at $97 per person, but consider that it’s more physically active and wetter. The jet boat tour costs $108, offering more of a sightseeing focus. Both tours are best booked early during peak seasons, especially in spring and fall when the weather is most agreeable for water trips.
Final Thoughts
Moab’s 1-hour boat tours are a great way to add a splash of adventure or a quick scenic break to your trip. The speed boat is perfect if you’re after excitement and don’t mind getting wet, while the express jet boat suits those who prefer a calmer, more informative experience with beautiful photo stops.
If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to make the most of your limited time, either option will give you a memorable taste of the Colorado River’s stunning landscape. Since these tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season, it’s wise to book early and plan your day accordingly. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with stories—and perhaps a few soaked clothes—for your Moab adventure.