Floating Bar Crawl Tour

Floating Bar Crawl Tour in Asheville: A relaxed way to enjoy local brews and scenic views

If you’re visiting Asheville and looking for a way to combine outdoor adventure with local craft beer, the Floating Bar Crawl Tour offers a truly memorable experience. For around $90 per person, you’ll spend about 4 hours drifting down the French Broad River on a sturdy raft, stopping at some of Asheville’s top breweries and food spots along the way. Led by friendly guides—cited for their enthusiasm and knowledge—you’ll get a laid-back, small-group adventure that’s perfect for beer lovers and nature fans alike.

What makes this tour special? First, the float itself is a peaceful way to see Asheville from a new perspective, with scenic river views and a cooler filled with ice to keep your drinks cold. Second, the stops at notable breweries like New Belgium and Wedge at Foundation mean you get to sample some of the best local beers while enjoying some good food from food trucks or relaxed deck settings. And with a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience stays intimate, friendly, and just the right amount of lively.

One key consideration is that this tour doesn’t include transportation back to your vehicle after the day ends, so you’ll need to plan your shuttle or rideshare arrangements. It’s also worth noting that this experience is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and outdoor adventure, rather than intense rafting or strenuous hikes.

This tour is ideal if you want a lighthearted, scenic way to explore Asheville’s craft beer scene, especially if you enjoy small-group outings and beautiful river landscapes.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and friendly atmosphere.
• River float offers a relaxed way to enjoy Asheville’s scenic natural beauty.
• Multiple brewery stops provide ample opportunity to taste diverse local beers.
• Guides like Cody and Walker receive praise for their enthusiasm and friendliness.
• Bring your own beer to enjoy in the cooler—no extra cost for drinks.
• No transportation back means planning your return is essential.

An In-Depth Look at the Floating Bar Crawl Tour

If you’re searching for a truly relaxed way to taste Asheville’s craft beer without the hustle and bustle of crowded bars, the Floating Bar Crawl Tour combines river serenity with beer tasting in a way few other experiences do. This tour, run by Cedar Rock Adventures, costs $90 per person and lasts about 4 hours. It’s designed for groups of up to 12 travelers, making it intimate enough to foster good conversation and camaraderie.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides a commercial raft, life jackets, paddles, and a cooler filled with ice—so you can bring your own beers to enjoy while floating. The stops at Asheville breweries are included in the itinerary, but alcoholic drinks are not supplied. This setup keeps costs down and allows you to customize your tasting experience. However, there’s no shuttle back to your car, so be prepared to arrange a ride-share or plan your route accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins

Your journey begins at the Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins, a comfortable spot with a deck and a good selection of affordable craft beers. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to unwind, sip a beer, and soak in the calm of the river. Reviewers have appreciated this stop for its laid-back vibe and scenic setting, making it a nice introduction to the day.

Stop 2: Wedge at Foundation

Next, your group heads to Wedge at Foundation, a local favorite renowned for craft beers that excite even the most seasoned enthusiasts. With about 45 minutes here, you’ll have time to sample some standout brews, chat with others, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Many reviewers have raved about the quality of the beer and the friendly service.

Stop 3: New Belgium Brewing Company

The final stop is the famous New Belgium Brewing, where the tour culminates with delicious beer and food truck options. Here, you’ll also have around 45 minutes to enjoy your last taste of Asheville’s beer scene. Several travelers mention that this stop is the highlight, especially for those who love sampling a variety of local brews in a lively yet laid-back setting.

What Travelers Think

The reviews tell a story of mixed experiences but largely positive impressions. Many praise Cody, the guide, for his enthusiasm and knowledge, which elevates the day. One reviewer called him “the best guide,” noting that he made the trip so enjoyable. Others appreciated seeing a bald eagle and catching beautiful river views that are hard to beat.

On the flip side, some found the float to be less engaging than expected, feeling that there was not enough water-based activity or stopping time. For example, one reviewer said, “We never stopped or really got into the water,” which might disappoint those hoping for more active river time. Plus, the walking to some stops can be a bit long and steep, especially near the poison ivy trails described by less satisfied guests.

The Experience on the Water

The raft ride itself is described as slow-paced and very relaxing, with the cooler being a nice touch that allows you to sip your beers while drifting. The scenic views of the river and surrounding nature are a major plus, providing a peaceful counterpoint to the brewery hopping.

The Social Aspect and Guides

Many reviews mention the small group size as a highlight. With just 12 people, it’s easy to strike up conversations and make new friends. Guides like Cody and Walker are praised for their friendly, professional manner and their ability to make everyone feel comfortable. Several reviews highlight how much fun they had, especially when guides shared local insights and kept the mood lively.

Practical Considerations

While the cost of $90 might seem high, it’s worth considering what’s included: the raft, gear, and stops at some top breweries. Plus, the scenic river float adds a unique dimension to a typical pub crawl. If you’re a beer enthusiast who also loves nature and relaxation, this tour provides great value.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation at the end of the tour, as no shuttle back to your vehicle is provided. This makes it ideal for those staying nearby or planning to use ride-sharing services.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back day in Asheville. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate scenic views and local craft beers. If you’re not looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure but rather a casual, social outing with a scenic twist, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer more water activity or more structured stops, you might find the float somewhat mellow. Also, be prepared for some walking and navigating uneven terrain if you want to fully enjoy all stops.

Final Thoughts

The Floating Bar Crawl Tour offers a refreshing combination of river scenery and local brews, making it a memorable way to explore Asheville’s vibrant beer scene without the typical bar-hopping chaos. Its small-group feel and friendly guides ensure a relaxed, personable outing that’s suitable for many travelers. While it’s not for those seeking intense activity or a seamless return trip to their car, it’s a wonderful choice if your goal is to enjoy good beer in good company with a side of nature.

If you love scenic floats, craft beer, and easy-going adventures, this tour can be the highlight of your trip to Asheville. Just remember to plan your transportation at the end, bring your favorite beers, and prepare for a peaceful, enjoyable day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided back to my vehicle? No, the tour does not include transport back to your starting point. You’ll need to arrange a ride-share or shuttle after the tour ends at New Belgium Brewing.

Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages? Yes, you can bring beers to enjoy from your own supply, as the cooler is provided for your drinks during the float.

How long is the float? The total tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including stops at three breweries and time on the river.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, making it intimate and ideal for personal interaction.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for adults comfortable with water and some walking. The reviews indicate a generally positive experience across age groups.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably for water activities—quick-dry clothes and sandals are recommended. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a hat for sun protection.

What if the weather is poor? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This floating pub crawl in Asheville offers an appealing blend of scenic river riding and local craft beer tasting. Perfect for those who want to enjoy a leisurely, authentic experience in this vibrant city, it’s a day out that combines the best of nature and local flavors—just remember to plan your ride home!