Motorboat Excursions

An Experience for the Whole Family

The Missouri River is a majestic place to be experienced by a motorboat! That is why we are offering the Big Muddy Boat Ride Series out of Cooper's Landing during the warmer months of 2023. For each month, registered participants will have the opportunity to step aboard our motorboat for a 2-hour interactive experience where we'll introduce you to our treasured natural resource. Click here so see our May, June, August, and September rides on Flickr.

Big Muddy Boat Ride Series Details

2 Hour Motorboat Trips for One Family and/or Friends (max capacity 18 guests)
At Cooper's Landing in Columbia, MO
Cost is $25 Per Person
Registration Opens in March of 2023

Participants will meet at Cooper's Landing and receive a safety talk and life jacket before loading onto the motorboat. If you want to make a whole weekend out of the experience, you can make camping reservations at Cooper's Landing website or check out their schedule of live music and food trucks on Cooper's Landing Facebook page.

Special Events

Wild & Scenic Art Auctions Sunset Excursions River Races View All Events

Big Muddy Boat Ride Series Registration

Registration opens up in March, 2023 and is through the Columbia Parks & Recreation website. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find, so we recommend the following.

Call Columbia Parks & Recreation at (573) 874-7460 and request your seats.
You can also follow this link, it will take you to a search form. Enter the number 314305 into the "Activity Number" field and click the "search" button. Below are the options that will appear. Select the option that corresponds with your preferred date and time and add it to your cart.
- Dates for the 2023 season will be posted here

Please have your payment information ready when registering. The cost is $25 per person.

Registration for later dates will open in March through Columbia Parks & Recreation.

Big Muddy Boat Ride Schedule

We will host motorboat trips during the following dates and times.

Dates & Times: 11:30am-1:30pm, 2:00pm-4:00pm, 4:30pm-6:30pm

May 2023

June 2023

August 2023

September 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

How is safety going to be handled on the river?

Safety is our number one priority; we will provide participants with a safety talk and life jackets before going on the boat ride. Participants do not need to know how to swim because we will not be entering the water. Experienced boat captains pilot our aluminum plate boats that have all completed boat operator training and are assisted by deckhands.

What type of boats will we be in?

Participants will be on the Missouri River in a 28-foot open boat, with an aluminum plate and a 200-horsepower marine motor that we call the Lucia.

How should I come prepared for the trip?

We will send out an email prior to the trip with information on how to come prepared but here is the basic information:

A face mask is encouraged to participate in the program. We recommend hand sanitizer as well.
Dress comfortably, bring a jacket and hat come prepared for the weather.
Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended.
Wear sturdy footwear that you are willing to get wet or muddy. (no flip flops)
Bring a re-usable water bottle. Water jugs will be provided on the boat.
If the river levels are low enough we might make it to an island, just in case bring some fun toys for the sand.
If you have a Life Jacket that fits you, bring it.

Can a homeschool group or family participate?

Yes. If you are a homeschool family or a teacher with a pod of students booking a trip, we have an additional pre-post curriculum to incorporate into your experience, just contact our education director at [email protected] to receive a copy.

If you have any questions, please contact Kristen Schulte at [email protected] 573-443-0292.