Services

How to Book

All of our river experiences are now guided with experienced staff
Select the time of booking and select 'book'
Choose the # participants for the paddle trips
Enter mailing address, contact and payment information and select Complete and Pay
Review the information on confirmation page and click the waiver button to fill out the waiver. EACH PARTICIPANT OVER THE AGE OF 17 MUST FILL OUT THEIR OWN E-WAIVER.
Trip information and a link to the waiver will also be emailed to you. Check for an email from [email protected].

Batteau Trips

Take a step back in time and join us on a historic batteau trip!
The James River Batteau was originally designed by Anthony and Benjamin Rucker in 1775 as a cargo boat to transport goods throughout the Commonwealth via the James River and its tributaries. It is a wooden, wide, flat-bottomed boat, which is pointed at both ends making it a fitting vessel to carry passengers and freight while navigating the shallow and rock laden waters of the Upper James River.

We offer a one-hour trip on our period-accurate replica of a James River Batteau. This large 40 foot long vessel provides ample room for up to 6 passengers to enjoy the local sights on the James River near Lynchburg. On the trip you will see old structures from the days of the Canal along the James, as well as experience the soaring views of the city as we float by. There are a variety of wildlife species to spot on this trip, and you will learn more about environmental conditions of the river as well as ways to protect the river for future generations. The trip starts and ends right at our office located in RiveredgePark in Amherst County which is directly across the river from downtown Lynchburg.

We look forward to hosting you on our one-of-a kind James River Batteau!

We also offer private batteau trips June through October. These trips start at $250 and are perfect for family reunions, corporate team building or just fun outing with friends. There is a 6 person capacity for the boat at one time. Contact us for booking availability.

One Hour Batteau Trips

Trip Details:

1 hour
Out and back paddle trip

Cost:

Ages: 6 and up

Under 18 must have a guardian participate

Trip Dates:

NONE AT THIS TIME

Book Now

Paddle Downtown Experience

Join an industry professional guide as they lead you on a 1-hour journey in a kayak or canoe, providing commentary on one of our three themed topics – birding, local history or fishing. As you gently paddle along, your knowledgeable guide will point out various native bird species that call the James home. Or learn all about the rich local history and heritage of the area, with stories dating back to early pioneers. If fishing is your passion, gain insider tips and techniques for catching some of the river’s abundant fish found in our region, and learn about the threats endangering them. Regardless of your chosen theme, you’ll experience breathtaking natural scenery along the way. Spend an hour relaxing on the river while building new skills and gaining a deeper appreciation of the river’s ecology and significance in the region. With an expert guide to enhance your adventure, this paddle trip provides a short yet immersive escape into the area’s iconic landscapes and is sure to create lasting memories.

Immerse yourself in nature and experience the beauty of the James on a guided paddle trip for up to 15 participants at Riveredge Park in Madison Heights, Virginia.