Montana Classic Boat Tours
Private wooden boat floats on the Yellowstone River near Livingston, Paradise Valley, and Bozeman. Hand built dories, Pendleton blankets, local food, mountain views, and a quiet pace on the water for guests who want to be looked after.
Fall is especially good. Peak foliage, clear light, and cool evenings make September and October sunset floats the best thing on the river.
Scenic Float + Guided Fly Fishing
Some guests want to cast a line while others prefer to sit back and soak in the valley. Our hybrid Yellowstone River trips let the fishing drift boat and the scenic wooden boat run the same stretch at the same time—so the whole group stays together on the river.
Sunrise, Midday, Sunset & Custom
The Early Riser
Quiet water, early light, coffee, and locally baked pastries. The calmest float of the day with warm Pendleton blankets on board.
2 to 3 hours · Early mornings May through October
Midday Scenic Float
Late morning or mid afternoon. Good for families, mixed groups, and guests arriving into town. Easy pace with time for photos and wildlife.
2 to 3 hours · Late morning and early afternoon
Yellowstone Sunset Tour
Golden light behind the Absarokas, soft water, and a slow float home. A favorite for couples and small groups who want warm light and solitude.
2 to 3 hours · Late afternoon and evening into fall
Custom Scenic & Events
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate retreats, family reunions, and photo or film projects. We build the float around your group and timing.
2 to 3 hours or longer · Priced individually
Scenic Float Pricing
All standard scenic trips (sunrise, midday, and sunset) are 2 to 3 hours. Rates are the same for each time of day.
4 to 6 Guests · The Joy
Catered: $1,100
Non catered: $900
Larger families, groups of friends, and wedding parties. Room to spread out on the river.
1 to 3 Guests · The Cygnet
Catered: $850
Non catered: $700
Couples, small families, and quiet floats. Same full size 20 foot dory, set up for a more intimate experience.
Catered trips include coffee or non alcoholic drinks for the time of day and a charcuterie board or pastry spread with local ingredients from Ranchmade Charcuterie. Non catered trips include the boat, guide, non alcoholic beverages, blankets, and all safety equipment. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
Who, What, When, Where & What to Bring
Who It's For
Families, couples, small groups, and visitors to Bozeman or Paradise Valley who want a relaxed, hosted float. Non anglers, multigenerational trips, wedding parties, and anyone who wants time on the river without fishing.
What We Do
Every trip is private to your group. We float a scenic stretch of the Yellowstone, set the pace around your guests, and build the day around light, season, and conditions.
When It Runs
Late May through early fall, with peak season June through September. Sunrise and sunset trips are most popular in midsummer. Fall foliage floats run through October.
Where We Float
Scenic sections of the Yellowstone River near Livingston and Paradise Valley, with views of the Absaroka and Gallatin ranges. Exact stretches vary with conditions and your group.
What to Bring
Layers, a light jacket, sunglasses, hat, and comfortable shoes. We keep Pendleton blankets on board. Bring your favorite beverages. We provide coolers, ice, and all safety gear.
The Joy & The Cygnet
Both boats are 20 foot McKenzie style wooden dories built by Ray's River Dories in Portland, Oregon, one of the classic names in drift boats since the 1970s. The McKenzie hull was designed for running whitewater, which means it feels smooth, stable, and predictable on the Yellowstone.
The Joy is named after my daughter and set up for larger family groups and celebrations. The Cygnet (a baby swan) carries smaller parties who want the same comfort in a more intimate setting.
The Experience on Board
Morning floats include coffee and locally made pastries and jams. Afternoon and evening trips feature a custom charcuterie board from Ranchmade Charcuterie with local meats, cheeses, fresh fruit, and seasonal additions. Kid friendly boards are always available.
Pendleton blankets for chilly starts and shoulder seasons. Space for cameras and personal items. Guests bring their own adult beverages. We provide coolers, ice, and all safety gear.
Two Programs, One River, Same Guides
Montana Classic Boat Tours and Swan's Fly Fishing share the same waters, guides, and booking system. If part of your group wants to fish and the rest would rather float, we run a fishing drift boat and a scenic wooden boat on the same stretch, at the same time.
Package pricing is available when scenic floats and guided fishing days are booked together.
Add a Fishing Day
Full day and half day guided trips on the Yellowstone, Paradise Valley spring creeks, Madison, and private lakes. Year round program based in Livingston.
View fishing options at Swan's Fly FishingPlan a Hybrid Day
One boat fishes, one boat floats. Same section of river, same time. A natural fit for couples, families, and groups with mixed interests.
Ask about hybrid day pricingWhat Guests Say
"Highly recommend. A great afternoon on the river, delicious food, a charming captain, and lots of wildlife. It's a special experience. We plan on going fishing with Matt next."
Kathryn C.
"The absolute coolest thing we have experienced in Montana. Matt was knowledgeable, relaxed, and made the whole group feel at home on the river. We would do it again in a heartbeat."
Carley H., Missouri
"Great afternoon on the Yellowstone. We saw eagles and two otters. Relaxing and exhilarating at the same time. Matt knows the river like the back of his hand."
Jeff M.
"The most relaxing experience. Our knowledgeable guide taught us all about Montana's mountains and wildlife."
Heather H., Alabama
"What an incredible experience. Matt was a wonderful and knowledgeable host. My family had a relaxing, informative and fun boat ride on the Yellowstone River. I highly recommend this."
Sean D.
KTVQ Out And About: Unique Wooden Boat Tour Paddles Through Paradise
Before & After Your Float
Where to Stay & Eat
Sage Lodge, Chico Hot Springs, the Murray in Livingston, and spots in Bozeman. Places I trust for guests here to enjoy the river.
See lodging & diningFishing During Your Visit
Add a guided Yellowstone River or spring creek trip through Swan's Fly Fishing. Same guides, same booking system.
View fishing optionsQuestions & Policies
Cancellation terms, weather policy, what to expect, and how to get in touch.
Contact & policies