From happy customers

Loved by 48 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Allen Easterling
US

Allen

United States
Feb 2026

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My husband and I were in town for our 1 year anniversary ... we landed down by the river and had the champagne and it was the most beautiful scenery and sights we have seen. We had the best pilot, I'm thinking it was Mitch . He was so knowledgeable and had a great personality and even had great music. This was a really great tour and would highly recommend for a lifetime memory.
Shlomo Shenzis

Shlomo

Jan 2026

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The helicopter tour was an absolutely amazing experience from start to finish. The panoramic view of the grand canyon from above were truly spectacular, offering a breathtaking perspective of the landscape. The entire team, from the pilot to the ground staff, was exceptionally friendly and welcoming. Their genuine warmth and engaging sense of humor added an extra layer of enjoyment to an already unforgettable journey. I highly recommend this tour for an incredible adventure and a truly memorable outing.
EHV Dahmen
NL

Ehv

Netherlands
Feb 2026

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It was an amaxing experience! It is God's wonder! Flying above the woods and then suddenly be part of this wonder Thanks to the Papillon helicopter crew!
Kristopher Kulseth
US

Kristopher

United States
Sep 2025

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Awesome trip! Pilot was friendly, professional, and happy to answer questions during the flight. Highly recommended for all ages!
Lisa Burgess
GB

Lisa

United Kingdom
Oct 2025

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What an amazing trip this was. Our guide Gia was sooooo knowledgeable and such good fun. The Canyon itself was simply WOW. We did the sky walk and decided to add the helicopter and boat to our day and I can honestly say it was worth every penny. We will absolutely be back to Vegas and will use this company again.
Terri L Cunkle
US

Terri

United States
Sep 2025

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#It was incredible, we did the VIP tour to go underground along with up top. We were on a tour bus group, could have used at least another 1/2 hour there. But overall loved it. We have been to Vegas several times and this is the first time we've done the Dam tour. A must do.
Steve O'Connor
US

Steve

United States
Jan 2026
The views from inside the canyon were spectacular! The pilot Justin was excellent very professional and very informative! The whole experience will never be forgotten.
Windi A

Windi

Sep 2025
#From start to finish one of the best Travel experiences we have ever done . There is only one way to truly see the Grand Canyon and that is from the air ! Pilot gave us a concise run through of the route and appropriate commentary as we explored the canyon and surrounding forest . Flight lasted 45 mins and for the money it was worth every cent . Plenty of room to take Photos/ Video .

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Why add a boat tour to your Grand Canyon adventures

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See the Canyon from the river level

When you board a pontoon or motor-boat along the Colorado River winding through the canyon, you’re peeling away the usual “rim view” and getting right up at the canyon walls, the water, and the dramatic geology that carved them. It’s a fresh viewpoint that highlights textures, rock layers and shadows you might miss from above.

A more relaxed, immersive experience

Boat tours tend to move at a gentler pace compared to hiking or rafting. You can sit back, enjoy the scenery, and absorb the surroundings in comfort. This makes it a great complement to more active segments of your trip (hiking, helicopter rides, etc.), offering a restful yet memorable part of your day.

Unique photo opportunities from the water

From the water’s edge, the canyon walls rise around you and reflections on the river can create incredible photo moments. Whether it’s sunrise or late afternoon light, getting on the river gives you picture angles that rim viewpoints can’t match. If capturing unforgettable imagery matters to you, this is a big plus.

Combine adventure and comfort

In many tours, the boat segment comes after a descent or landing on the canyon floor, making the transition from air/land to water seamless. You’ll enjoy the thrill of arriving in the canyon and then glide along the river. It’s the best of both worlds: adventure and ease.

Things to know before booking your Grand Canyon boat tour tickets

  • Your Grand Canyon boat tours are a part of helicopter tours that come with a floor landing, where you can enjoy the time when the helicopter descends on the canyon floor on a pontoon boat ride across the Colorado River.
  • The boat tours either start from Las Vegas or from the Grand Canyon West heliport, depending on the tour you have selected.
  • The pontoon boat ride duration is about 20 minutes.
  • While boat tours are not wheelchair-accessible, the 15-min Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour plus Canyon Floor Landing, Boat Ride with Optional Skywalk is accessible for those with mobility issues.

Your Grand Canyon boat tour options explained

Boat tours from Grand Canyon West

This boat tour experience involves a 15-minute helicopter ride across the Grand Canyon West Rim, followed by a descent onto the canyon floor and a pontoon boat ride. Thus, the experience combines an aerial experience with a journey along the Colorado River.

Recommended experiences:

  • 15-min Grand Canyon West Rim Helicopter Tour with Floor Landing & Boat Ride

Boat tours from Las Vegas

Enjoy aerial views of the Grand Canyon starting from Las Vegas, and explore the canyon as you travel across the Colorado River on your boat tour. You have the option to explore the West Rim’s attractions with this tour as well and enjoy an airplane tour, based on the tour option selected.

Recommended experiences:

  • 70- min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Airplane Tour with Helicopter Canyon Floor Landing & Pontoon Boat Ride
  • 70-min Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West Airplane/ Helicopter Tour with Rim Landing

Highlights of your Grand Canyon boat tour

Two boats on Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend, deep canyon walls surrounding.

Gliding through canyon calm

You don’t realize how dramatic these canyon drops are, till you sit in boats drifting peacefully along the walls. Nature really knows how to show off.

Colorado River winding through Grand Canyon, showcasing rugged cliffs and expansive landscape.
People rafting down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon.
Maverick Helicopters Airbus EC130 flying over Grand Canyon with Las Vegas Strip views.
Helicopter on Grand Canyon floor during Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West tour with pontoon boat ride.

Plan your visit

Aerial view of Colorado River winding through the Grand Canyon near Las Vegas.

Tours that start from Grand Canyon West: Between 12pm & 1:30pm, 5 times a day, for 4 hours.

Tours that start from Las Vegas: 9am & 1pm, depending on the tour selected, for 7 hours.

Best time to go on a boat ride:

  • Spring (April–May): Mild weather and lighter crowds make this the perfect time for a peaceful river experience and crystal-clear photos.
  • Summer (June–August): Expect warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It’s ideal for sunset or early-morning boat rides.
  • Fall (September–October): Cooler air and golden canyon hues create a relaxed atmosphere and stunning reflections on the Colorado River.
  • Grand Canyon West heliport:
    Address:
    5006 Diamond Bar Rd, Peach Springs, AZ 86434, United States | Find on Maps
  • Las Vegas Boulder City Terminal:
    Address:
    Airport Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005, United States | Find on Maps
Eagle Point sign with Grand Canyon view in the background, highlighting Hualapai cultural significance.

You’ll arrive at a Grand Canyon West Rim’s landing spot via a helicopter ride, from there you have a short walk to the riverbank. Your pontoon boat ride starts from the riverbank. The boat travels about 1 mile each way, and brings you back to where you got on.

You’ll pass or see:

  • Eagle Point (Skywalk): You can often spot the glass Skywalk extending over the rim above you. It’s an amazing sight from below.
  • Guano Point: Visible in the distance, this rocky promontory juts out dramatically over the canyon and is another West Rim highlight.
  • Quartermaster Canyon: Some tours drift past this side canyon, where ancient rock layers meet the river in striking formations.
  • Colorado River corridor: The boat cruises through calm waters lined with sandstone cliffs and river-polished boulders.
Person assisting another with a life jacket before a water activity.
  • The boat tours are not wheelchair-accessible.
  • Be mindful of any wildlife or animals you may encounter on your tour.
  • Avoid littering or throwing waste in the canyon at all costs.
  • Do not lean over the edge of the boat.
  • Follow the rules and guidelines to create a safe and enjoyable experience on your tour.
Woman applying sunscreen
  • Dress in light, breathable clothing and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It’s warmer at the canyon floor than at the rim.
  • Carry only essentials like a camera, water bottle, and small bag, as space on pontoon boats is limited.
  • Stay hydrated before and after your tour, and keep water handy during the ride.
  • The spray from the Colorado River is usually gentle but can still mist your camera or phone. A waterproof pouch or dry bag helps keep your gear safe.
  • Opt for early morning or late afternoon departures for cooler temperatures and better lighting.
  • Step carefully when boarding or moving around. The pontoons will rock slightly. Hold onto handrails and follow your guide’s instructions.
  • Listen to your guide. Many tours include commentary on canyon geology, wildlife, and tribal history. It adds depth to the experience and helps you spot details you might otherwise miss.

Frequently asked questions about Grand Canyon boat tours

Most Grand Canyon boat tours operate year-round, weather permitting. However, certain extreme weather conditions or seasonal maintenance may affect availability.

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