James River Batteau Tours and Cruises!
We combine history and outdoor recreation to create fun and unforgettable river experiences for everyone. Join us on the James in Scottsville, Virginia just south of Charlottesville!
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River Tour
Our mid-day, 2-Hour float is a uniquely Virginian experience. We have you covered whether you’re after history, scenery, or simply a good time. Kick back and hang out, swim, take photos, and soak in the sights and sounds of this fabled river.
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Sunset Cruise
The only sunset cruise on the middle James! This 2-hour experience pushes off from Scottsville and drifts down river as the daylight fades. Enjoy our overflowing charcuterie boards and live acoustic music as night falls on the river.
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Private Charter
River tour or Sunset Cruise, experience the river exactly how you want it. Have the whole boat to yourself and allow our team to craft a perfect trip for you on the James. We will work with you to make sure its an experience you’ll never forget.
What’s a Batteau?
James River Batteaux are flat-bottom boats designed specifically to navigate the shallow waters of the James River. In the late 1700’s to mid 1800’s they brought trade up and down the James River. The batteau era played a pivotal role in our state and national history.
Today they are the perfect vessel to get you out on the river having fun.
Why a Batteau Tour or Cruise?
The James River is an amazing place to spend hours, days, or even weeks. The shimmering emerald water, towering sycamore trees, and abundant wildlife combine to make floating the James an enchanting experience. While it can be navigated by canoe, kayak, or even inner-tube, a batteau does it in style.
You can sit comfortably or get up and walk around. You can stay completely dry or have a swim in the warm water. You can learn to navigate the boat or sit there and leave it all to us.
Whether you join us for a mid-day tour or an evening sunset cruise any trip is guaranteed to create memories that will last long after we part ways in Scottsville.
located in Scottsville, Va
James River Batteau Company operates out of the charming and historic town of Scottsville, Virginia which is located 30 minutes south of Charlottesville. The town of Scottsville was established during the 1700’s when rivers were still the main form of transportation into Virginia’s wild interior. Throughout the batteau era, Scottsville was the most important town along the river for boatmen carrying goods to the markets in Richmond. Today the town exudes historic charm and offers a variety of restaurants, breweries, museums and local parks to enjoy the day in. We are proud to operate out of Scottsville and bring the area’s history and heritage to life.