Jet Boat tours ranging in length of 64, 80, or 104 miles round trip up the Rogue River. These boats have been used to deliver the mail upriver since 1895 and passengers get the unque experience of heading up a Wild and Scenic River and be a part of it all. Lunch or dinner included.
We went on Jerry's Jet Boat Tour in June 2009. At the time, our boys were 4 months and 3 years old. We had a blast! I made the mistake of sitting in the back of the boat with the baby, in the last row of seats next to the wheelhouse, thinking it would be the dryest and safest, but it was WAY windy and the baby didn't like it at all. My husband had our 3-year-old in the very front row, and they were much more comfortable because they were protected by the windows. After lunch, on the way back, we all sat in front together, very comfortably, and both of my boys fell asleep!
What you're in for when you get on the boat is a rollicking fun boat ride up river for about an hour. Our captain drove us over to the marshes on the sides of the river where we saw Bald Eagles, Osprey, ducks, cranes, and river otters. The mountains and scenery are simply breathtaking from the water, and our captain knew a lot of Indian history and lore, which was fascinating. He was also hilarious, and kept us laughing the whole time. At times, the boat went slowly, especially while passing the fishing boats on the water, but when the river widened, the captain opened it up and it was FUN! He also liked to spin brodies, which cracked up my older boy to no end.
Up river, there are 2 options for lunch, and the boat drops off and picks up to each place. We ate at the second place, a diner-type establishment with burgers, fries, grilled cheese, chicken strips, soda, etc. Good food, moderately priced. I think you can bring your own lunch too, but call to double-check since it was a year ago that we were there.
The lunch break is an hour and a half or so, which gives ample time to eat and digest, walk around and enjoy the scenery, get your feet wet in the river, etc. My boy had the time of his life chucking rocks into the river. The trip home is a little faster, since you've already seen most of the sights. Our captain took this chance to show off the boat a little, with more speed and more spins.
Since it can be chilly, dress the family in layers. It's warmer upriver, especially in the summer months. For the windy boat ride, there are heavy wool blankets on board for your comfort.