Private scenic wooden boat tours on the Yellowstone River
Montana Classic Boat Tours offers private scenic wooden boat floats near Livingston and Paradise Valley. These are relaxed, guided river trips built around mountain views, wildlife, photography, conversation, and time on the water.
Book a morning, midday, or evening float, keep it simple, or add food to make the trip feel more like an occasion.
One scenic float, one clear booking path
The base trip covers up to 3 guests, with additional guests added per person. Food is optional, and you can request add-ons during booking.
Group pricing
| Group Size | Boat Price |
|---|---|
| 1 to 3 guests | $595 |
| 4 guests | $780 |
| 5 guests | $965 |
| 6 guests | $1,150 |
Morning, midday, or evening
Most floats are about two hours on the water. Exact timing can shift with weather, river flow, season, and the pace of your group.
Morning Float
Soft light, cooler air, coffee, wildlife, and a calm start to the day.
Standard start: 9:30 AM
Flexible window: 9:00 to 11:00 AM
Midday Float
A simple fit for families, travel days, and guests arriving from Bozeman, Livingston, Paradise Valley, or Yellowstone-area lodging.
Standard start: 12:30 PM
Flexible window: 12:30 to 1:30 PM
Evening Float
Cooler air, better summer light, mountain views, and a relaxed float that pairs naturally with dinner plans.
Standard start: 4:30 PM
Flexible window: 4:30 to 6:30 PM
Keep it simple or add food
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, beer, wine, or preferred drinks. Food orders are best placed at least 48 hours before the trip when possible.
Morning Board
1 to 3 guests: $155
4 to 6 guests: $195
Best for morning floats, with breakfast-style options depending on availability.
Afternoon / Evening Board
1 to 3 guests: $175
4 to 6 guests: $215
Best for midday and evening floats, with charcuterie-style and seasonal options when available.
Sandwich Add-On
Available: Afternoon and evening floats, Tuesday through Saturday.
Not available: Morning floats, Sunday, or Monday.
Sandwiches may be available by preorder depending on vendor timing and availability.
A scenic Yellowstone River experience
Who it fits
Couples, families, wedding guests, photographers, wildlife watchers, and non-anglers who want a hosted river experience at a relaxed pace.
Where we float
Scenic sections of the Yellowstone River near Livingston and Paradise Valley, with stretches chosen based on river flows and current conditions.
What to bring
Layers, a light jacket, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Bring your favorite beverages if you want them on the boat.
Season
Late May through early fall, with June through September as the core season and fall dates possible when weather and river conditions allow.
The Joy & The Cygnet
Both boats are 20 foot McKenzie style wooden dories built for moving water on the Yellowstone. They are quiet, stable, and well suited to the slower scenic pace that makes these trips feel personal instead of rushed.
The Joy is best for larger family groups and celebrations. The Cygnet is often used for smaller private floats and quieter groups. Guests do not need to choose the boat when booking.
Two programs, one river, same local operation
Montana Classic Boat Tours and Swan's Fly Fishing work well together for mixed-interest groups. If part of your group wants a guided fishing day and the rest would rather float, both experiences can often be coordinated around the same stretch of water and part of the day.
Guided fishing
See Swan's Fly Fishing for Yellowstone River, Paradise Valley spring creeks, and other guided trip options based in Livingston.
View Swan's Fly FishingMixed scenic + fishing day
For couples, families, and groups with mixed interests, this page explains how both experiences can be paired on the same day.
View fishing + scenic detailsWhat guests remember
About The Program
Learn more about the family, the boats, and the background behind Montana Classic Boat Tours.
Visit the About pageQuestions & Contact
Use the contact page for policies, direct questions, timing, or group details.
Open contact pageJournal & Updates
Read seasonal updates, current notes, and related stories from Montana Classic Boat Tours.
Visit the blogScenic float questions
How long is the float?
Most scenic floats are about two hours on the water, with exact timing adjusted for river conditions, weather, and your group.
Is the trip private?
Yes. Each scenic float is private to your group.
How many guests can come?
The base trip covers up to 3 guests. One boat can usually handle up to 6 guests, and larger groups may be arranged with additional boats when available.
Can we add food or drinks?
Yes. Food add-ons can be requested when booking. Guests are also welcome to bring snacks, beer, wine, or preferred beverages.
Is this a fishing trip?
No. This page is for scenic floats. Guests who want fishing can book separately through Swan's Fly Fishing or ask about a mixed scenic and fishing day.
Pick your date and book your scenic float
If you already know your date, group size, and preferred float window, the fastest next step is to book online directly or text Matt.