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 2024. 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.

Big Muddy Boat Ride Series Details

2 Hour Motorboat Trips (max capacity 18 guests)
At Cooper's Landing in Columbia, MO
Cost is $25 Per Person
Registration opens spring 2024

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.

Big Muddy Boat Ride Series Registration

Check back in early 2024 for detailed information on how to register with Columbia Parks and Recreation.

Big Muddy Boat Ride Schedule

We will schedule boat rides for late spring and early summer 2024. Check back in early 2024 for more details.

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:

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 kristen@riverrelief.org to receive a copy.

Click here so see our 2023 May, June, and July rides on Flickr.

If you have any questions, please contact Kristen Schulte at kristen@riverrelief.org 573-443-0292.