Moab Jett
BackOperating out of Moab, Utah, Moab Jett has established itself as a highly specialized tour operator focused on providing New Zealand-style jet boat experiences on the Colorado River. With a remarkably high customer satisfaction score, evidenced by a 4.8-star rating from over 300 reviews, the company primarily attracts those looking for an alternative to land-based sightseeing. Their offerings are not those of a traditional travel agency that arranges comprehensive itineraries; instead, they concentrate on delivering a specific, high-energy water adventure that showcases the region's dramatic red rock landscapes from a different vantage point.
The company offers a few distinct types of guided tours, catering to different preferences. The most frequently mentioned is the "Adventure Tour," a wet and thrilling ride characterized by high-speed maneuvers, 360-degree spins, and sliding turns. Customer feedback consistently emphasizes this aspect, with many reviewers happily stating that participants should be fully prepared to get soaked. For those seeking a less intense outing, a "Scenic Tour" is also available, which focuses more on the history, geology, and natural features of the canyons bordering Arches National Park. This dual offering allows Moab Jett to appeal to both thrill-seekers and families or individuals who prefer a calmer journey on the water.
The Positive Aspects of the Service
A significant strength repeatedly highlighted in customer feedback is the quality of the staff. Guides and boat captains like Ho, David, and Jeremy are frequently mentioned by name for their professionalism, knowledge, and engaging personalities. They are credited not just with skillful boat handling, but also with enriching the experience through commentary on local history and geology. This personal touch appears to be a cornerstone of the company's success, transforming a simple boat ride into a more memorable event. The staff's ability to create a fun and safe atmosphere is a recurring theme, suggesting a well-trained and customer-focused team.
Moab Jett also stands out for its appeal to a wide range of visitors, especially families. Reviews from customers with children as young as five and as old as fourteen indicate the experience is well-suited for various age groups. One notable account describes a driver who, before performing spins, asked for approval from everyone on the boat, demonstrating a sensitivity to passenger comfort levels. This flexibility makes their family-friendly activities a reliable choice for those traveling with mixed-age groups. The company, which is family-owned and operated, seems to extend that ethos to its customer interactions.
Performance and Reliability
Another point in their favor is the ability to deliver an exciting experience even under less-than-ideal conditions. One customer noted their initial concern about low river levels but was pleased to find the trip was still a "blast." This speaks to the skill of the pilots and the capabilities of their smaller, powerful boats, which are designed to navigate the shallow river conditions typical of the New Zealand style. Furthermore, the company offers combination vacation packages that pair the jet boat experience with other local activities like 4x4 tours, canyoneering, and ziplining, providing more comprehensive options for visitors looking to book multiple Moab excursions through a single provider.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While the positives are numerous, potential customers should be aware of several key factors. The most critical is the nature of the "Adventure Tour." The promise of getting wet is not an exaggeration; it is a central feature of the ride. Those looking for a dry, placid sightseeing cruise should either opt for the scenic tour or consider other Colorado River tours. The company does provide splash jackets, but a thorough soaking is a near certainty on the thrill-focused trips. This is less of a negative and more of a crucial piece of information for managing expectations.
Operationally, the business has a notable limitation: it is closed on Tuesdays. For travelers on a tight schedule, this lack of availability one day of the week could be a significant inconvenience and requires careful planning. It is essential to check their schedule in advance, especially since tours are popular and can fill up quickly.
What to Know Before You Book
Moab Jett is a dedicated tour operator, not a full-service agency. Their expertise is in jet boat tours, and they excel within that niche. While they offer some bundled packages, their primary business is the boat ride itself. Here are some final considerations:
- Booking: Advance reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
- Duration: Tours are available in one-hour and two-hour formats, allowing for flexibility depending on a visitor's schedule and budget.
- Cost: One review from a few years ago mentioned a price of $79 and noted a lack of a senior discount, though a youth discount was available. Current pricing on their website shows rates around $89 for adults for a 1-hour tour and $99 for a 2-hour tour, with child prices being slightly lower. It's always best to verify current rates directly.
- Location: The business operates from 50 W 400 N in Moab, with complimentary shuttles available in town, which adds a layer of convenience.
In conclusion, Moab Jett offers a highly-rated and specialized form of adventure travel that consistently earns praise for its exciting rides and exceptional staff. Its strengths lie in providing a unique, water-based perspective of Moab's scenery with options for both high-adventure and scenic viewing. The primary considerations for potential customers are the certainty of getting wet on the adventure tour and the need to plan around their Tuesday closure. For families, couples, or individuals seeking a fun and memorable activity to break up days of hiking or driving, it stands as a strong and reliable choice.