Thinking about adding a splash of excitement to your trip to Wenatchee? We’ve taken a close look at the 15 Mile Adventure Boat Ride offered by Wileys Boat Rides, and while we haven’t personally done the tour, the glowing reviews and detailed info paint a pretty clear picture. If you’re after a quick, fun, family-friendly outing with a few thrills and some gorgeous river scenery, this might just be what you’re looking for.
What really caught our eye are two things: first, the thrilling boat maneuvers like the “Hamilton Spin” that give a roller coaster feel on water, and second, the up-close views of iconic local landmarks, especially the Rocky Reach Dam and the junction of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t an intense adrenaline rush; if you’re craving rapid white-water rapids or high-adrenaline thrills, this might not satisfy that craving. But for those wanting a relaxed, fun, scenic adventure, it’s a solid pick. This would work well for families, groups, or anyone looking for a memorable way to explore Wenatchee’s waterways without breaking a sweat.
Key Points
- Family-friendly adventure with exciting tricks and scenic views.
- Small group size (max 6 travelers) for a more personalized experience.
- Not a white water or rapid experience—relaxed and fun, not extreme.
- Views of Rocky Reach Dam and river confluence provide great photo ops and natural education.
- Cost: $100 per person, which is reasonable for the 45-minute trip with a media package option.
- Booking well in advance (around 13 days on average) helps secure a spot, especially during peak times.
An Enjoyable Ride with Scenic Highlights
We loved the idea that this tour blends thrilling tricks like the “Hamilton Spin”—which is basically a boat spin within its own length, mimicking a roller coaster on water—with more tranquil moments of simply cruising past some of Wenatchee’s most iconic sights. The ride is meant to be entertaining, playful, and accessible, making it suitable for most visitors, including families.
The boat ride starts at a convenient meeting point in Wenatchee, and from there, it’s about 45 minutes of some of the most fun you can have on water without needing a wetsuit or a white water rafting experience. The guide, Wiley, gets high praise for being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, often stopping at key points to share interesting facts about the dam, river, and local history. From the reviews, it seems Wiley’s personality and insights are a large part of what makes this trip so memorable.
Planning more time in Leavenworth? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary in Detail
Rocky Reach Dam Viewpoint
One of the main highlights of the tour is the stop (or rather, the positioning) at the Rocky Reach Dam. The boat is carefully positioned so everyone gets a fantastic water-level view of this impressive structure. While the group doesn’t disembark, the guide shares captivating info about the dam, adding a layer of understanding to what might otherwise just be a pretty sight. If you’re into engineering marvels or just love watching dams in action, this part of the trip is quite engaging.
Confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers
Next up is the scenic confluence of the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers. Here, the boat slows just enough to take in the natural beauty and significance of this spot, which is a well-known salmon migration route and a hub for recreational activities. The reviews describe this as a ‘perfect’ photo stop and a great chance to appreciate the river’s natural setting. It’s a brief pause, but one that enriches your understanding of the local environment and its importance.
The Thrills and Tricks
Now, for the fun part — the tricks and spins. Wiley’s boat performs dynamic drifting turns and the signature “Hamilton Spin,” which really livens up the ride. One reviewer called it “super fun” and loved how Wiley’s skill made the trip both exciting and safe. Expect to get wet (or even thoroughly soaked, but it’s not guaranteed)—a favorite among those who love a splash and a little adrenaline. The tricks aren’t extreme or white-water rapid style, but they’re enough to make the trip memorable and add some thrill to the scenic cruising.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Duration and Group Size
The trip lasts roughly 45 minutes, which is just enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed. The maximum group size is six, giving a more intimate, personalized experience—something many reviews appreciated. Smaller groups also mean you can ask questions easily and get a better view of the tricks Wiley performs.
Cost and Value
At $100 per person, the ride offers good value considering the personalized nature and the scenic stops. You can also opt for a media package (for an additional fee), which includes pictures and an edited video clip shot from custom action cameras. This is a nice perk if you want to remember the trip or share it with friends and family later.
Booking and Planning
Most travelers book about 13 days in advance, so if you’re planning to go during busy seasons, it’s worth reserving early. Confirmations are instant, and you’ll receive detailed instructions on where to meet, as the meeting point isn’t visible from the parking lot.
Considerations
- You might get wet, especially if you ask to be splashed or when Wiley performs tricks.
- The boat’s seating is fixed, so if you’re tall, it might not be the most comfortable.
- No white water or rapid adventure here, so if you’re seeking high adrenaline, this isn’t the right fit.
- Participants need to sign an online waiver before the ride.
- The experience’s length can vary based on river conditions, but expect around 45 minutes.
- No responsibility for any personal belongings lost or damaged.
What Do People Say?
The reviews paint a pretty enthusiastic picture. Reviewers commonly praise Wiley’s friendly demeanor, his knowledge, and the way he makes the ride fun and informative. Many mention that the trip is suitable for families—particularly those with kids who enjoy a splash of excitement—though some adventure seekers might find it a tad leisurely. One reviewer highlighted how the tricks performed by Wiley really added to the experience, and another appreciated the personal care in a small group setting.
A common theme is that this trip feels more like a fun, scenic cruise with some tricks thrown in rather than a white-water adrenaline rush. Many describe it as a “favorite family trip” or a “great way to cool down,” which makes it sound like an ideal summer outing for those seeking a relaxing yet lively adventure.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after an easygoing, entertaining water adventure with impressive scenery and an engaging guide, the 15 Mile Adventure Boat Ride is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a balance of fun tricks and natural beauty. It’s a good value at $100, with the option to purchase media to keep memories alive.
This experience isn’t designed for thrill-seekers craving rapid white-water rapids or high-adrenaline antics, but it delivers plenty of excitement in a safe, friendly package. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and Wiley’s friendly style makes it feel more like a day out with a knowledgeable friend than a touristy gimmick.
Overall, if you want a relaxed yet lively way to see Wenatchee’s river highlights, enjoy some water tricks, and learn a bit about local landmarks, this boat ride could be a highlight of your trip.
15 Mile Adventure Boat Ride
“Super fun trip! Wiley was friendly and a great driver. It was a fantastic way to cool down on a hot day!”
FAQ
Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s designed to be suitable for most visitors, including families. Kids usually love the tricks and splash, but it’s not a high-intensity ride, so it works well for a variety of ages.
How long is the boat ride?
The ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, which is perfect for a quick outing that leaves you feeling satisfied without overstaying.
What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers per trip is six, ensuring a more personal experience with plenty of room for questions and photos.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 13 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
Can I get wet on the ride?
You might get wet, especially if Wiley performs tricks involving splashes. While it isn’t guaranteed, be prepared to get a little damp.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is family-friendly, so generally suitable for most ages, but always check with the operator if you have very young children or specific concerns.
What are the payment options?
The price is $100 per person, and you can purchase a media package to get photos and videos for an extra fee.
What should I wear or bring?
Bring waterproof clothing if you’re concerned about getting wet, and hold onto personal items tightly—no responsibility for lost or damaged belongings.
What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re looking for a small-group, scenic boat ride with some tricks, good views, and a friendly guide, the 15 Mile Adventure Boat Ride seems like a well-rounded choice for a fun day on Wenatchee’s rivers.