The 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Moab
Moab isn’t just about towering red rocks and dramatic canyon vistas; it’s also a prime spot to experience the Colorado River from the water. Whether you want a peaceful float, a high-speed thrill, or a dinner with a story, Moab offers some standout options. You could enjoy a cowboy-style dinner cruise while watching a mesmerizing sound and light show, or catch a sunset while sipping on a BBQ. For thrill-seekers, speed boat rides whip through rapids with screams of delight, while calm water tours provide a relaxed way to soak in Canyonlands’ stunning scenery.
In this guide, you’ll find a detailed look at the top seven boat and cruise experiences in Moab. We’ve compared everything from short express tours perfect for a quick look at the river, to full-day adventures that combine 4×4 excursions with scenic cruises. Each offers a different way to explore the Colorado River’s grandeur — whether you prefer a lively ride or a contemplative float. We’ll help you decide which tour fits your style, budget, and available time, so you can make the most of your Moab trip.
Quick Overview
This list includes seven diverse tours: a cowboy dinner cruise with a stunning sound and light show, sunset cruises with optional BBQ dinners, exhilarating speed boat rides, a scenic jet boat to Dead Horse Point, a tranquil inflatable boat experience, a combined 4×4 and river tour, and a quick express jet boat ride. Prices range from $97 to $355, with durations from 1 hour to almost a full day. Whether you’re after a family-friendly float, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or a culturally rich dinner, there’s something here for your Moab vacation.
1. Moab: Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show
The Colorado River Dinner Cruise stands out for its combination of entertainment, storytelling, and a hearty cowboy-style dinner. This 3-hour tour begins at 1861 N Hwy 191, where you board a boat for a slow cruise on a tranquil stretch of the river. Here, you’ll witness an incredible sound and light show, where lights cast shadows on the canyon walls while music narrates the story of how the canyon was formed.
What makes this tour unique is the way it combines history, culture, and entertainment. The projection onto the rock face turns the canyon into a living storybook, making it more than just a boat ride. The Dutch cowboy-style dinner adds a rustic charm—hot, plentiful, and served family style—making it a satisfying meal after a relaxing cruise. The experience is rated 4.5/5 from over 1,150 reviews, with guests praising the friendly hosts, beautiful scenery, and educational show.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, culturally immersive evening with a dash of entertainment. The main drawback is that it’s a bit on the pricier side at $108 per person, but the combination of dinner, storytelling, and scenic views justifies it. Best suited for couples, families, or anyone wanting an atmospheric evening on the river.
Bottom Line: A memorable blend of scenery, storytelling, and Western hospitality—ideal for guests seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience.
2. Moab: Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner
The Sunset Boat Tour offers a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise that captures the vibrant colors of the canyon at day’s end. Starting at 1861 N Hwy 191, you’ll glide along the water as the sun dips, casting fiery hues on the towering canyon walls. The guide shares insights into the geology and history of the area, enriching the experience.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to dine afterward at a riverside restaurant, choosing from a BBQ style dinner that adds a Western touch to the experience. With a rating of 4.7/5 from 115 reviews, guests often mention their guide Brandon’s friendly personality and informative commentary as highlights. The $129 per person price includes both the cruise and the optional dinner, making it a good value for a scenic and culinary experience.
This tour is well-suited for sunset lovers and those looking for a shorter, but visually stunning, river outing. The main caveat is that the dinner is optional, so if you’re short on time or want just the cruise, you can skip it. It’s ideal for couples or small groups wanting a peaceful evening with spectacular views.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for a romantic sunset or a laid-back evening enjoying nature’s most colorful display, combined with good food.
3. Moab: 1-Hour Colorado River Speed Boat Tour
If adrenaline is your style, the Speed Boat Tour is the way to go. This 1-hour thrill ride kicks off at 1861 N Hwy 191 and promises high-speed fun racing over rapids and spinning in circles. It’s a favorite for families and adventure junkies, rated 4.9/5 from 61 reviews.
The jet boat whips through the calmer sections and hits rapids, offering a mix of scenery and action. Expect to get soaked, so waterproof protectors for your electronics are recommended—though many guests say it’s part of the fun. The $97 per person price is reasonable considering the excitement and the chance to see sweeping views of the red rock cliffs from the water.
What makes this tour stand out is the frenzied fun and the friendly, entertaining guides. It’s a quick burst of adventure that leaves you breathless—literally and figuratively. If you enjoy fast-paced activities and don’t mind getting wet, this is your pick. The only drawback might be the short duration, but that’s also part of its appeal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want a high-energy water adventure with excellent scenery, all in just an hour.
4. Moab: 3-Hour Jet Boat Tour to Dead Horse Point State Park
This Jet Boat Tour combines a scenic river journey with a visit to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the area—Dead Horse Point. Starting at 1861 N Hwy 191, it lasts about 3 hours and takes you through the calm waters of the Colorado River.
The highlight is cruising through the bottom of Dead Horse State Park, with spectacular views of the cliffs and the famous “Thelma and Louise” overlook. Your guide offers lively commentary on the local culture, history, and geology. The tour also includes a visit to the filming location of the finale of “Thelma and Louise,” adding a cinematic touch.
Rated 4.7/5 from 81 reviews, guests praise Rory, the guide, for being knowledgeable and funny. The $150 price includes the boat ride and the chance to see wildlife and geological formations up close. Morning or afternoon departures help beat the heat and offer optimal lighting for photos.
This tour suits those wanting both a relaxing cruise and a cultural highlight. The main con might be the longer duration, making it less ideal for quick visits, but the value for the scenery and storytelling is high.
Bottom Line: An excellent mix of sightseeing, history, and a little cinematic nostalgia, great for those wanting an in-depth river experience.
5. Moab: Calm Water Cruise in Inflatable Boat on Colorado River
For a peaceful, intimate experience, the Inflatable Boat Calm Water Cruise offers a half-day of gentle drifting through Meander Canyon. Starting at 1861 N Hwy 191, the 5.5-hour tour is perfect for nature lovers wanting to relax and take in the scenery.
This small-group adventure on a sturdy inflatable boat allows for close-up views of the Canyonlands and the river’s meanders. The guide, Katie, is praised for keeping the experience fun and informative. Guests enjoy the serene waters, with many noting the beauty of the Gooseneck of the Colorado River and the dramatic canyon walls. The $154 per person price reflects the longer duration and the more personalized experience.
Ideal for travelers interested in geology, bird-watching, or simply floating in calm waters, this tour avoids the adrenaline but offers a more meditative connection with nature. The main limitation is the length—if you’re looking for a quick activity, this might not fit into a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic float that’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking a quiet, contemplative experience on the river.
6. From Moab: Canyonlands 4×4 Drive and Calm Water Cruise
This full-day adventure (link here) combines two top experiences: a scenic 4×4 drive through Canyonlands’ backcountry and a calm water cruise on the Colorado River. Starting early, it includes a picnic lunch, making it perfect for travelers with a whole day to explore.
Your day begins with an off-road drive over rugged terrain, offering panoramic views of the Island in the Sky district and beyond. Afterward, you switch to a relaxing boat on the river, enjoying the serene landscape from a different perspective. The guide provides engaging commentary on geology and history throughout.
Rated 4.9/5 from 12 reviews, this tour is praised for well-organized logistics and knowledgeable guides. The $355 per person price reflects the full-day length and the variety of activities. While some guests wished for more stops during the drive, the combination provides a comprehensive look at the area’s natural beauty.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want variety and depth, including a bit of off-roading and scenic cruising. It’s not ideal for those with limited mobility or short on time.
Bottom Line: A complete day of exploration that combines rugged adventure with peaceful river views, ideal for avid explorers.
7. Moab: 1-Hour Express Jet Boat Tour on Colorado River
Looking for a quick taste? The Express Jet Boat Tour offers a fast-paced 1-hour ride starting at 1861 N Hwy 191. Perfect for tight schedules, it takes you past iconic sights like the Moab arches and Indian petroglyphs.
This tour is all about efficiency—your guide provides live commentary as you race along, soaking in the most scenic parts of the river. Rated 4.3/5 from 6 reviews, guests appreciate the fun and informative atmosphere, though some mention it’s a brief experience.
At $108 per person, it’s a good value if you’re short on time but still want a memorable river experience. The main limitation is the short duration, but this makes it an excellent option for those who want a quick, high-energy adventure with great views.
Bottom Line: A fast, fun way to see the river’s highlights if your time in Moab is limited.
How to Choose Your Perfect Moab Boat Tour
When deciding which cruise or boat tour fits your plans, consider your budget, available time, and personal interests. For a laid-back, scenic evening, the dinner cruise or sunset tour offers mood and storytelling, while the speed boat is best for thrill-seekers craving adrenaline. If you have a whole day and want variety, the full-day 4×4 plus river trip is unbeatable. Want a quiet, contemplative float? The inflatable calm water cruise might be your best bet.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure the best times and avoid disappointment. Think about your fitness level and comfort with water activities—if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer not to get wet, opt for calmer, longer cruises instead of high-speed rides.
Final Thoughts
Moab’s water-based tours truly showcase the area’s natural beauty from a different angle. For a relaxed cultural experience, the dinner cruise with its light show is a standout. If you’re after adventure, the speed boat will get your adrenaline pumping, while the scenic jet and calm-water cruises appeal to nature lovers and photographers. The full-day combo offers the most comprehensive experience, combining off-road exploration with river relaxation.
Whether you want a quick thrill or a full day of sightseeing, these tours give you a taste of Moab’s stunning river scenery. Don’t forget to book in advance—these experiences fill up fast, especially in peak season. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to come away with memorable stories and striking photos of your time on the Colorado River.