Join a unique art journaling adventure aboard The Spirit of the James in Hopewell, VA. Sketch the beautiful river scenery with guidance from a local artist while enjoying a peaceful cruise on the James River.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels as activity is mainly seated sketching aboard the boat.
Wildlife
History
Hopewell’s location on the James River played a key role in early American colonial industry and trade, reflected in the historic sites visible from the cruise.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to maintain the natural health of the James River by Connect With The James and local partners, promoting sustainable recreation and protecting wildlife habitats.
Connect With The James
Join a unique art journaling adventure aboard The Spirit of the James in Hopewell, VA. Sketch the beautiful river scenery with guidance from a local artist while enjoying a peaceful cruise on the James River.
Connect With The James is a Richmond, Virginia-based operator that offers guided canoe and pontoon experiences on the James River. It partners with the James River Association and uses the Spirit of the James, a 40-foot educational pontoon vessel, for many public outings. Tours combine outdoor recreation with hands-on education about river ecology, regional history, and wildlife, and include canoe paddles, pontoon sunset cruises, birding and migratory tours, fish trawls, and sketching cruises led by local artists.
Many outings emphasize conservation, species awareness, and river health studies during events such as James River Week and Science on a Saturday. Selected trips provide all equipment and trained educators or guides to lead safe, informative excursions. Sample experiences include paddling the Fall Line from Ancarrow’s Landing, exploring Powhatan Creek by canoe, and longer combined pontoon-and-canoe days at Presquile National Wildlife Refuge.
Connect With The James programs suit people seeking active outdoor learning and memorable river experiences near Richmond. Safety equipment and expert guidance are provided on pontoon and canoe tours, and age or participation guidelines are noted for specific trips. The organization promotes respectful, low-impact recreation and public education about the James River’s natural and historic significance, making its offerings appropriate for families, educators, and outdoor enthusiasts eager to connect with the river.
Trip lengths vary from 1.5 hours for sunset cruises to four hours for combined pontoon-and-canoe days, with some fish trawls lasting 2.5 hours. Certain outings, such as the Atlantic sturgeon pontoon tour, list a minimum participant age of 12.
Tours Offered
10 trips
Guided canoe and pontoon experiences
Vessels
40-foot pontoon & canoes
Spirit of the James used
Trip Lengths
1.5–4 hrs
Short to half-day options
Age Guidelines
12+ (select trips)
Some tours note minimum ages
Spaces fill quickly — check trip details and book online to secure a canoe or pontoon experience with trained educators.
Bring a Lightweight Sketchbook
Use a portable sketchbook that’s easy to carry and sturdy enough for outdoor use during the cruise.
Dress for Variable Weather
Wear layered clothing to adjust to river breezes and changing temperatures on the water.
Protect Your Art Supplies
Use waterproof or quick-drying inks and keep supplies in a waterproof bag during the cruise.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to settle in and prepare your materials comfortably.
Portable Sketchbook
Compact and durable for easy sketching during the cruise.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and river breezes throughout all seasons.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Hat with Sun Protection
Shields your face from sun exposure while outdoors on the boat.
spring|summer|fall
Waterproof Carry Bag
Keeps art supplies dry and organized during the river cruise.