The best way to truly enjoy the James River!

Rates

Sunday - Thursday:

• Book Individually: $106
• Book Your Own Boat (6 people per boat): $636

Friday:

• Book Individually: $106
• Book Your Own Boat (6 people per boat): $667.80

Saturday:

• Book Individually: $111.30
• Book Your Own Boat (6 people per boat): $667.80

Duration

2 Hour Float

How to Book the Right Experience for You

We offer various ways to book our cruises based on your preferences.

Public Cruises

Small Party - If you are a small party we welcome you to join one of our ‘public’ cruises. In this setting you will be seated with other passengers. Our public cruises often promote discussion and community, the social atmosphere might leave you with new friends after the experience concludes.

Large Party - If you have a party that would prefer to book your own boat you are welcome to do so. We have two batteaux that can accommodate up to 6 people per boat (per USCG regulations) for a maximum 12 passengers per trip. If your group size is larger than 6 people, we will board you on two different batteaux. We often float as a flotilla, which means you’ll be in close proximity to the other boat and you will absolutely be able to converse and share in the experience together.

Private Cruises

If you have a large party and would like ensure an intimate experience with only your group or family we recommend booking a ‘private cruise’. This option works great for special occasions and can be upgraded to include a private chef for a “farm to batteau” style meal (based on availability).

Our private cruises include availability for up to 12 people. Per US Coast Guard regulations we can accommodate up to 6 people per boat. This experience always floats as a flotilla, which means you’ll be in close proximity to the other boat and you will absolutely be able to converse and share in the experience together.

About

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time to park your car and check in. Allow 2.5 hours total time.

The Experience We begin traveling upriver from the Scottsville boat ramp sharing the story of the batteau and batteaumen’s legacy in Virginia. At the halfway point we serve our signature charcuterie boards, allow for swimming and celebrate the long history of community on the James River.

History The James River is the most important river in American History. Among its many forgotten tales is the story of how boats built specifically to ply its shallow waters were crewed by brave men who transformed Virginia and the early American nation.

Food No community gathering is complete without the sharing of food! All our cruises come with complementary charcuterie boards complete with a variety of dried meats, cheeses and assorted accompaniments.

Wildlife The James River ecosystem is filled with some of Virginia’s most iconic wildlife. Whether it’s bald eagles or river otters, ospreys or gar, you’re unlikely to leave our tour without catching a glimpse of some of our riverine life.

FAQs

Meeting Place and Parking The tour meets at Canal Basin Square, in Scottsville. (A public park.)

249 Main St, Scottsville, VA 24590

• We meet at Canal Basin Square, which is a fantastic park and great introduction to the history of river commerce in Scottsville.
• There is parking on Main Street or on the righthand side of the parking lot next to the square. Please do not park next to the Scottsville Pharmacy.
• After all guests arrive you will drive down to the Scottsville boat ramp where you will board.
• After approximately 2hrs you will arrive back to where your vehicle is parked.

Can I bring my kids?

• We welcome children 8 and over. Due to our insurance policy we unfortunately can’t accept children under the age of 8.

Can we swim?

• Yes! Taking a refreshing dip in the James can be a highlight of the tour. Just make sure you bring appropriate shoes for getting in the river.

• If mother nature provides very high water levels we cannot allow our guests to swim.

Is it safe?

• Our river tour is very safe. The section of river we float is mostly flat with occasional class 1-2 rapids, nothing to be concerned about. We do provide life jackets, wearing them is optional.

Can I bring alcohol?

• Yes. Our batteaumen know how a refreshing beverage pairs well with a day on the river. It’s important though to keep things family friendly, drunkenness will not be tolerated.
• You are welcome to bring a small personal cooler.

Is there a bathroom?

• Canal Basin Square (our meeting location) has public bathrooms and we encourage everyone to use them prior to the tour. Once on board there are no formal bathroom stops along the river.

What if it rains?

• Our tours are rain or shine! Being on the river during a rainy day can be a magical experience. We do have a large canopy that provides good shelter from the elements. That said, we are still outside so we suggest you bring your own raincoat.
• When severe weather is anticipated and we determine our guests' safety is in question, the tour will be postponed, rescheduled, or refunded.

Can I store my phone/keys/camera?

• Each group will be provided a dry bag that will keep your possessions safe. Anything you bring aboard needs to fit into the provided dry bag.

How many people can a batteau accommodate?

• Per US Coast Guard regulations each batteau can accommodate up to 6 people. We have two batteaux so each trip has a maximum of 12 guests.

Is it customary to tip your guide?

• If you feel at the end of the tour the service you received was exceptional, a personal “thank you” in the form of gratuity is greatly appreciated.