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Soar Inflatables & Russian River Adventures
Categories: Active Life Boating Active Life Rafting/Kayaking Boating, Rafting/Kayaking [Edit]
20 Healdsburg AveHealdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 433-5599
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 9 am - 5 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
50 reviews for Soar Inflatables & Russian River Adventures
50 reviews in English
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Review from Patti W.
Concord, CA
8/20/2011
This place was great! The stretch of river you kayak down is fairly private because it lined by vineyards. My husband and I kayak about once or twice a year. Even though we have some experience, there were a couple of sections of the river that were a little challenging because of the way the river turns the current can carry you straight into the bushes. It was the first time we had ever brought our dog with us and that is probably why those couple sections were more challenging because our dog was trying to jump out of the kayak.
There are a lot of beaches to pull out and go for a swim and there was even a spot with a rope swing which was a lot of fun.
I would definitely take this trip again!Comment from Larry L. of Soar Inflatables & Russian River Adventures 8/21/2011
Patti, Thanks for your comments! Even though SOAR canoes… More » -
Review from Andrea B.
2/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
I had a great time when my company went rafting at Soar Inflatables this last summer, though everyone was thorough exhausted after a long day of paddling down still water. Don't expect any rushing rapids, and be prepared for a 2.5-4 hour trip down the river, depending on how fast you want to go or if you make any stops along the way. It was sometimes difficult to steer straight, and you may find yourself running into banks and bushes often. It was a great upper body workout.
We saw many families enjoying the beautiful weather and having picnics along the shores; dogs are allowed, as well, and they looked like they were having a great time, too.
Orientation includes filling out forms, getting life jackets, and putting our belongings in watersafe bags, and a comprehensive welcome talk about the journey down the river, complete with checkpoints. The guides are nice.
To avoid having to walk all the way back to your car, they even give you the option free of charge to drive your car to the end of the river.
Bring food! They only offer marked up oatmeal and some baked goods, so don't go without snacks. We were all starving. -
Review from Heather H.
Carlsbad, CA
9/10/2011 2 photos
This was a good idea going into it, however it was a little more difficult then we thought.
The pros were that we could bring our puppy.
The cons were we kept running into the trees and bushes. -
Review from Mike S.
San Francisco, CA
7/12/2011
We had a great trip down the river. I'd really recommend this service to anyone looking for a fun water adventure.
Just be advised that the trip can feel a bit long when you're fighting a headwind with no current to help you along. Totally worth it in the end though, just be sure to put more sunscreen on your legs than you expect. Oh, and good shoes (over flip flops) would definitely help. -
Review from Bill C.
Shingle Springs, CA
6/4/2011
My review will be different than most on here- I didn't take a paddling trip with Russian River Adventures, I purchased one of their canoes from Soar Inflatables.
I first became aware of their inflatables while reading my son's cub scout magazine. There was a feature where a pack of scouts fished in Alaska using the canoes.
At the time I was looking for some sort of inflatable kayak or raft that would allow me to take my family of 4 out in a variety of situations- from whitewater to still lakes. The Soar Canoe seemed to fit that bill quite well.
After watching all of the videos and checking out all the numerous photos on their website there was only one thing left to do- find the money to buy the thing.
At the time I purchased SOAR was having a sale. I had planned on buying the Soar 16, but with the sale going on I decided to by the Soar Canyon instead.
I called up to see about availability- The young lady that answered the phone was very helpful and stripped away every excuse I had for not ordering it right then. She told me I could order online or over the phone and the canoe should be on my doorstep in about 3 weeks. She also told me to make sure to send them pictures of my family enjoying the canoe after I purchased it.
I decided to order over the internet so that I could browse the site some more before my order. I ended up purchasing the Soar Canyon, an extra seat, and a set of paddles.
About two weeks later I had the SOAR in my hands. It arrived via FEDEX ground and I was able to track it via the internet as soon as it was shipped by SOAR. A week earlier than promised.
I inflated it, and the family fell in love.
My only advice to those buying a LARGE inflatable canoe like this- buy an electric inflation pump also. The hand pump works well for topping off the canoe, but is unpleasant to try to fill the entire canoe by hand with (I used my shop vac the first time).
Thanks SOAR for speedy shipping, friendly customer service, a nice informative website, and what I think will be a great product.
A+ -
Review from Carla M.
Corte Madera, CA
7/25/2011
From the website: I was under the impression that the "invitation" to enjoy coffee, chai and danish was provided, it isn't and there isn't much of a selection when you arrive.
We arrived early and the staff was not prepared. I felt as though I should have received some sort of FAQ's of what to expect once we did arrive. I had to ask what the procedures were. The answer was vague that I had to go back three more times to know what was happening.
We would recommend that you have some experience before getting in the boat. One should know the basics of steering as there are currents strong enough to take the boat into some areas of the river that are not pleasing. The overhanging branchses are sharp and painful. Though we worked hard to avoid being thrown in that direction, with the limited experience we had in steering we ended up in several bushes. The description of sit back and let the current take you down river is overly simplified, you need to constantly be working the boat, unless of course you pull off to one of the many beach areas.
I also felt as though the paddles were to short for the type of kayak. We were traveling with a friend in a single kayak, who is experienced, and she most definitely agreed that the paddles were incorrect. We would have been better-off with canoe paddles.
Now that I have an idea of what type of trip it is, I will recommend the trip to someone who has some experience. I will go back, but by myself in a single kayak. -
Review from Kevin D.
Vallejo, CA
9/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
Had so much fun! We actually forgot to buy any food and beer (last minute idea for kayaking) and when we heard the safety instructions down by the river and told the guy giving us the instructions we didnt have any beer or food, he offered to drive us to the local market. WE agreed and off we went. Come to find out the guys name was Larry and owner of the company. Thanks Larry for doing that, and we had a fabulous time!
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Review from Jennifer S.
Concord, CA
Updated - 6/14/2011
This was our fourth trip with Soar and OMG, it's as good as it gets! We had an absolute blast!! Our dog rates this as his favorite activity EVER! :o)
This year we went with another couple and their dog... and we'll ALL be back for another trip (at least once, maybe more) before the end of the summer! Larry, Amanda and the rest of the gang are wonderful to work with! It's a beautiful ride with many opportunities to pull over for a snack, drink and to let the dogs run around and swim (although they also just jumped off the rafts to paddle around when they felt it was time for a dip)!
It was so convenient to have the car waiting for us at the end of the day! Definitely an A+ experience! We'll be back!!! Thanks for a great day!2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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8/2/2009
This was our third trip down the Russian River with SOAR and it was just as fantastic this year as… Read more »
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Review from Daniel B.
Livermore, CA
7/13/2010
Great experience. A lot of fun. Would definitely do it again.
The river was very relaxing and tranquil. It was a very warm 91 degrees when we went last Sunday, so the water felt cool and refreshing... however, I'd imagine that earlier in the season it could be downright cold. My recommendation would be to go in the mid to late summer season, as you aren't dealing with quite as much snow run-off on the rivers of Northern California.
Probably the coolest thing about the trip is that you can bring your dog(s) along with you in the canoe (for a nominal fee, of course)... Sadly, my pups are not fans of the water, and did not make the trip with me.
Also, the fact that they drove my car down to the fenced-in, locked parking lot at the end was really nice. They even left printed directions in the car explaining how to get back to highway 101... this probably saved us a good 30-45 minutes in return time. I would definitely recommend taking advantage of this service. However, on busy days, they are limited in the number of cars that can move down to the lot, so ask about it right away when you check-in.
So why only 4 stars, instead of 5? Well, at quite a few spots along the river, there was an abundance of garbage, and abandoned rafts/tubes/etc... None of the abandoned equipment was the property of SOAR and they do not own the river; however they are selling an experience. It would really benefit them, the customer, and the environment to take a couple of boats out once a week or two, and clean up the river. Heck, if you give me a free canoe rental, and a garbage bag, I may even do it for you! Just so much nicer if you don't have garbage and abandoned rafts littering the sides of the Russian River while trying to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Other than that, great trip! -
Review from Heather J.
Clayton, CA
9/21/2010
Had a great time. Bought the tickets from Goldstar and was worth every penny!! It is a really pretty stretch of the river, very mellow. I took my two almost tween girls and our dog. We were able to stop a few times, had lunch and enjoyed the unplugged time. Staff was great, they gave us an extra dry bag and took our car down to the pick up spot so we did not have to ride the shuttle back. This alone put this company above the rest!! The one drawback to our trip was that we were instructed to call as we passed a landmark to ensure our car was there and we would be met by staff, I soon figured out that my phone was T-Un mobile with no signal. Listen carefully to the landmarks, by the time we got to them we all had a different order and item we were looking for.
All said, great trip, great fun. We will be going again for sure. -
Review from Samsudin K.
Santa Clara, CA
7/27/2010 3 photos
I love canoeing , kayaking and rafting so I wanted to try how is it like to raft down Russian River. I have to pick a company that is kid friendly since my daughter is 6 yrs old. The staff is very pro and they are friendly. The provide the raft, paddle, life jacket for kids and a dry bag. We were there early so we drove to CVS which is 3min away to get snacks and more drinks. We check-in at 10 am, get the paper work done and walk to the river. You load the cooler box in the truck and they will drive it to the riverbank. (+1)
The guide is very experience and provide all the information you need to call them before you reach the end. Make sure you listen so you know how to steer the raft. It is not easy as compare to kayak or conventional canoe since it has flat bottom. It tend to steer left and right more than usual. I don't like the seats and I wish they have back rest.
It is 8 miles long you DO NOT run out of gas. Pace yourself and save some energy for the last 2 miles where the water is so calm and there is headwind which can slow you down. They drove our car to the end point so we can just have to change to dry clothes and drive back home without having to take the shuttle back to office.
We made several stop for break and after 4 miles, we stop for lunch and enjoy the beach. There is no beach in the last 2-3 miles so after 3-4 hrs along the river, make you sure stop and grab your meal. There is no restroom along the river so do it all natural behind the bushes. They do have portable restroom at the end of the trip.
Highly recommend for family with kids and first timer. You need time and patience to control the SOAR. Wear a hat and put lots of sun screen. -
Review from Tamar D.
7/11/2010
When in doubt, write a list...then the longer list wins out.
PROS:
* Cool, inflatable, flat-bottomed canoes that are extremely stable
* I got to bring my dog, unlike with other canoe carriers in the area, and he was beyond in heaven. Loved watching him have an absolute blast.
* Easy to get to from the highway
* Although they can't take credit for it, the river was beautiful, tranquil, and made for a lovely day
* Although I'd made my reservation for Saturday, July 10th, they accidentally had me down for Saturday, July 11th (see the problem?). But the guy was totally cool, "got creative" to use his words, and we were on our way.
CONS
* The list of instructions provided by the guy at the launch site was extensive and there's absolutely no way you can take it all in. He talked fast and there was alot of information. I don't know if it's possible to somehow laminate the important points and tack it to the boat, or what
* It wasn't explained very well that, although they offer the extremely cool service of driving your car down to the endpoint that, if there was more than 1 car per group, both services aren't offered. We thought we were in the clear, and that our friend from Sacramento could get a head start back on her drive home. Instead, she had to drive us back to the parking lot.
OTHER NOTES
* Again, not having anything to do with the actual outfit, this was a long ass way down the river for including 2 out of 3 people with not much rowing experience. I'd love to do it again, but maybe as a single or with someone who really knows the rhythm necessary to turn, stop, avoid, go right, go left, etc.
Okay, I'm looking back up and the PROS have it. 5 stars, it is! -
Review from Glenn G.
Santa Rosa, CA
8/24/2011
We had a great time!!! I would highly suggest bringing your dogs if you have them, BUT put them in life vests. We have 2 Labs, both very stong swimmers, but after about 4-5 miles (8 mile trip total) of running / swimming along side we needed to pull them in the boat becasue they were getting too tired for their own good and the river was getting wider and deeper. If we would have had vests we wouldnt have been worried about them at all. Overall very fun and a great staff that helped us launch and recover the boats.
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Review from Michael M.
San Francisco, CA
7/19/2010 1 Check-in Here
This was our first time rafting on the Russian River. We picked SOAR because it was self-guided and we could bring our dog. Our dog had never been on a boat before. We started at 11 am in the morning. The first two miles had some class 1 rapids and some shallow areas. Darby, our dog, was scared to start, but after about 2 miles she had adjusted well and actually slept through the next few miles. We pulled over every mile to let her play in the water. There were a lot of other dogs that she would play with as well.
We packed a cooler with snacks and beer. Half way down we had a picnic. The entire trip is about 8 miles. The last two miles there is no current so be sure you save some energy. The day we went was really hot. Make sure you bring plenty of SPF and a hat.
SOAR is a great company that is very well run. The employee are very organized and their service is great. We particularly liked that they drove our car down to the bottom. When we finished it was nice to to jump into the car and leave with out having to go back to the start.
The people are friendly and they make sure you have a nice day on the river. We can't wait to go back! -
Review from Birgitta B.
Newark, CA
7/7/2011
We take a trip every year down the river with our kids (now 13 and 11) and dog (7). Everybody is very nice and pleasant. We go on a really hot day so we are able to spend half of the day in the water and half on the boat. Our dog loves it and keeps going from boat to boat, swim along or run along the shore and provides great entertainment. Afterwards we go to Healdsburg and have dinner and it makes for a perfect day.
New this year was: coffee and pastry (which we missed since we were late); armbands (could do without those, feels too 'resorty',
they tended to fall off anyway)); photos (I guess it is good if you don't have your own camera, but gives it also adds to a commercial feel); T-shirts (kind of commercial, but my husband and daughter bought one each); a pair of BALD EAGLES (great!!!).
My advice for improvement would be to maybe make the rope swings
more accessible (if you can in a 'natural way').
(I also wish we had thought of trying to get a deal on http://goldstar.com) -
Review from Kris A.
San Francisco, CA
8/11/2010 2 photos
I have never been to the russian river before so what better way to experience it by going canoeing.
We got a discount for 50% off on http://goldstar.com(cheap plug) to canoe along the river. For the most part, the water is calm and the current pushes the boat for about six miles so its light paddling. The last two miles is where you have to use your paddling skills to use since their is no current to push you.
Along your river journey, you can have picnics along river banks and check out the river's sights and sounds. You may see some turtles and ducks which are worthy of some picture taking.
Staff was informative and friendly, even giving you a shuttle back to your car. Even the shuttle ride back was scenic with all the wineries. I would comeback again....its fun, relaxing, and peaceful!!!! -
Review from Staci L.
Santa Rosa, CA
7/20/2011
I'm only giving it 2 starts because of the natural beauty of the Russian river. This trip was a horrible family memory for us- we went with 3 young kids and our large dog. It took us 8 hours to complete this trip and we had to work the entire time. The headwinds were strong and we all fell in the river. The company offers NO support at all when we wanted to get out. They have no motor boats or any way to get you- just a helicopter for a medical emergency. Not for young kids- they get too bored. Not for the faint of heart,
Comment from Larry L. of Soar Inflatables & Russian River Adventures 7/20/2011
We're sorry that Staci feels that we offered no support.… More » -
Review from Mitchel W.
Valencia, CA
7/17/2011
There were 14 in our group from 10 years old to 80 years old. Not sure how many different self guided trips are available but we did the 8 mile trip down the Russian River. It was a little on the strenuous side but nonetheless an amazing, enjoyable day. You pretty much get the entire day to travel the 8 miles so you can take your time and take plenty of breaks/swim breaks.
The river is very tame - with or without life jackets you won't ever face much peril. The river is beautiful too with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way. We spotted a beautiful bald eagle as well as assorted hawks, otters and trout. Make sure to bring your water blasters (water guns). We didn't think to bring ours and regretted it. They are so popular on the river that Russian River Adventures actually sells them.
You get the choice of leaving your car at the departure area and taking a shuttle back or having them drive your car to the end of the river tour so it's there waiting for you. We opted to leave our car at the start point and return by shuttle. As long as you call them before you reach the end you won't wait long for the shuttle. We waited about 10 minutes. I prefer that to having someone driving my car 10 to 15 minutes to the take-out point.
The Russian River Adventures team were efficient, knowledgeable and friendly. The equipment appeared well maintained and safe. It was a GREAT day. Highly recommended! -
Review from Ken M.
San Francisco, CA
8/17/2008
This outfit was featured in sfgate recently. I just hope they won't become a victim of their success.
Two things need to be understood up front before you drive up to Healdsburg.
1. There is very little current this time of year so you're gonna work, as in "I'm not talkin' 'bout pleasure boatin' or day sailin'. I'm talkin' 'bout workin' for a livin'."
2. Now I don't want to use a technical hydrodynamic term and lose you here but the SOAR inflatable is what we call a pig. It's got no keel, significant drag and because it physically deforms depending on weight, can behave erratically. The closest thing I've ever experienced is that broken cart at Costco with the gimp wheel and a pallet of water off-center in that below space. For all its faults, it's crazy stable and towards the end I got bored and started doing a Laird Hamilton (that's standing and paddling) while the wife and our 75lb fur baby laid out towards the, um, I guess we'll call it the bow.
The crew was just great at every step. We left them our keys and when we walked up the bank, our car was waiting. We had such a great time we're all going back again very very soon.
Physics tip: water reflects light. Be sure to use sunscreen unless you have a "class 9, or Robin Williams, level of hair coverage." -
Review from I Love S.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/11/2010
Went back this year, still loved it!
We really enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle (and fog) on the weekends, and this is a great activity, not too far from the City, the inflatables are clean, the staff courteous and helpful, just an all around general good time. Our dog thoroughly enjoyed herself, and the nice thing is that you can distance yourself from others that might otherwise harsh your mellow (I'm looking at you, raft with the two dogs barking non stop!! ;-)
When we got there, the staff informed us that unfortunately they would not be able to drive our car to the exit point, and that we would have to wait for the shuttle to get back to the starting point and our car. I was telling my husband on the way down not to go too fast, so we wouldn't be the "first of the last" and have to wait for everyone on dry land. Turns out my man is a paddling machine, so we did end up getting there without others in sight. The staff made us wait a bit, but after 15 mins, when the other rafters still weren't there, the staff guy decided to make a trip with just the two of us and the dog, which we really appreciated.
I highly recommend SOAR and RRA, good times!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/27/2009
Lots of fun =))
Nice in that the vegetation and current at the beginning and middle make for a very… Read more »
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Review from Frank K.
Concord, CA
7/10/2010
This was our fourth trip with this company down the Russian River and suffice to say, next year will be the fifth!
The trip begins by meeting at their office, then walking across a bridge, through a park, down to the waters edge. At that time a safety meeting is given to each group, then off you go!
The water tends to be a little chilly first thing in the morning, however, as the day progresses, the water feels GREAT! The first section of the trip is made up of winding, narrow parts of the river that is fun to navigate.
As the trip goes on, you will find yourself floating, relaxing, watching the wildlife along the banks. Water turtles are sunbathing atop rocks and large pieces of wood all along the trip.
About midway, you will come across a rope swing that you can use to climb up a tall embankment, jump and land in a semi-deep part of the river, the kids will love it!
Bring along a cooler full of eats and drinks, then relax and enjoy!
The end of the trip you will find yourself paddling quite a bit, so be prepared. Quite often the wind will be against you and this makes for a little of a struggle if you are not prepared. This part of the river is lined with giant trees, and wonderful views!
Those of you who have dogs..... it's GREAT for some breeds, not all! We brought our Pomeranian a few trips ago and to make a long story short.... I thought we had killed him! This trip is GREAT for big dogs, especially 'water' dogs, all others..... bring at their own risk as it is exhausting for smaller breeds. Big dogs? Go for it!!
The actual job of controlling the raft is tricky. It takes awhile to learn how to turn, slow, stop when you need to. Be prepared to get soaking wet! Someone is going to flip over into the water, guaranteed! It's actually fun, refreshing and all part of the game! If you don't want to get wet, don't go.
The river is 'marked' with colored ribbons for areas to avoid, which I seem to find, without fail! For example, 'pink, you sink' is for areas you should stay away from because the water is moving fast, or the brush is to thick or some other combination thereof. None of this trip is dangerous, with the exception of being entangled in the brush which really is hard to imagine, as you can simply stand up and the water might go as high as your shoulders in those brushy areas.
A new thing that they have incorporated, that I think is really nice, is the car shuttle service. In the morning, you leave your car at the company office then while you are cruising down the river, they will bring your car to you at the end point, where you can dry off and head home. This saves a tremendous amount of time at the end, otherwise, you will have to wait for the last party to arrive and that may take some time.
Bring some water socks, bare feet are not recommended.
This is a wonderful way to spend the day and I look forward to doing this year after year!
FK -
Review from Will N.
Mountain View, CA
8/16/2010
We took a trip down the Russian River with SOAR last week, and had a great time. The staff is terrific - the young ladies were very sweet to my little girls (and easy on the eyes). They were also sweet to me - as they drove our car down to the takeout point, sparing us a bus ride back to their facility.
The trip is really a full day, as you'll stop along the way at various sand bars and little inlets for a snack or a swim, take a ride on a rope swing that will scare the crap out of you if your kid does it, or just stop to check out the wildlife. We saw plenty of turtles, a blue heron, and other assorted fauna. This stretch of the river was completely deserted on a Friday, except for the other SOAR boats, which we really saw infrequently until the end. You're basically on your own.
One thing to note: you will paddle the entire way - the current, such as it is, will not take care of it for you, at least not in summer. So bring another able bodied person (i.e., someone other than your kids!) Highly recommended trip! -
Review from Ann L.
8/11/2008
I canoed with SOAR Russian River Adventures after we got a group of 12 people to canoe along the Russian River. If you have 10 or more it's $40 per person, otherwise it's $45pp.
Once you get to their company, you sign a waiver. If you bring a cooler than they drive it to the start. No Styrofoam coolers allowed.
One guy gave the directions fast, I was trying to listen hard but too much info..forgot it really fast. I wish they gave basic directions on how to paddle - which they didn't. These canoes are inflatables but strong. We didn't tip over which was Great. One dry-bag for all important things like lunch & cell phone (to call them & tell them you're at the 1hr point.)
From my experience I learned: if you want to turn Left, paddle Right. If you want to move Right, paddle Left. If you want to Stop..then Paddle in the Reverse Direction! Wish they just said so then we wouldn't have hit so many tree branches!
We stopped a bunch of times: lunch, 2 swings (both on the right side). First one half-way point. Other one closer to the end. Once you pass the 3-Legged Tower you have about 1 hr more to go. Once you see a Bridge and a Weird Box thingie on the Left you are Done!
Your arms will HURT after a while!! Biceps, triceps, oh another part of the body..Butt!! Stupid wooden board to sit on! I'm sore for 2 days now!
We spent 6 hrs on the river. Most people do it between 3-5 hrs.
Then the driver takes you back to your car. The bathrooms are still open and you can rinse your feet w/ 2 hoses they have.
Not crowded at all, only 30 canoes allowed from their company.
Prices:
Adults $45pp (40 w/ 10 or more people)
Children & Infants $22
Dogs $10 ea
Overall: I'd recommend them, but I'm not going again.
Website:
http://www.rradventure.../ -
Review from Deborah S.
Geyserville, CA
7/19/2010
I have lived locally for 19 years, and it took a visiting friend to finally get me in a canoe down the Russian River.
Now...the staff was outstanding, and Larry is the man in the know...but best yet, I have a friend on the river thesame day, and she said there must have been 1,000 boats..
With Soar, they launched us from such an outstanding location, we hardly saw anyone, and felt like we were floating down our own bit of nirvana!!!
They even brought our car to the ending location!!! -
Review from M M.
San Francisco, CA
7/6/2008
Had a great time in June 08 with these inflatable canoes. There were 4 of us & 1 dog, so we rented 2 canoes. They charge per person & per dog.
One of the canoe'ers was a first timer, ever on the water & she got the hang of it. There was a "good little ripple" within 10-15 minutes of the trip & my dog was getting a bit ansy...so, she jumped/fell out. Thank goodness that there is normally shore or somewhere to pull over, since it really startled her & made me nervous, as well. Gave her a few minutes to regroup & we started our journey again. If your dog isn't too adventurous or doesn't like water..probably not the right trip to bring them on. My dog got used to it, but it took a little time.
I don't think that I can call myself an experienced paddler, but we seemed to drift sometimes "the wrong way" & we were able to correct ourselves. You have to really trust your partner to be "on the same page". We definitely got our workout, especially the last 2 miles, so save some energy for the end.
The river was very tranquil and plan on doing it in the future, again. Saw mostly the Soar type canoes & a few kayakers on the river.
If you are bringing small kids...you need to walk a good 2-3 blocks from the check-in site to the dock. The drive back is scenic...and the driver drove fast around the turns...I figured he knew the roads to drive that fast.
Great trip had by all. Go when there's good flowing water! -
Review from micah w.
San Francisco, CA
6/14/2010
Great day on the river ... this company is pro all around !!
The staff was very nice .. and explained everything in detail .. the rafts are a bit hard to control .. but very stable . They also have a lot of stops along the river for swimming and having lunch. would def recommend and go again myself !!! -
Review from Leslie E.
Sacramento, CA
6/7/2010
Had a great time on our first trip down. We chose SOAR because they were dog friendly and my lab loves the water. I got him a life vest just because I wasn't sure how much he would be in the water and I wanted to make sure he wouldn't tire. I'm glad I did because I didn't have to worry about him tiring out and I could just pull him back into the boat when he got tired. He had a great day.
It was a really pretty trip down with plenty of place to stop and relax. I look forward to doing it again. -
Review from samanta v.
Healdsburg, CA
7/21/2008
I did this on saturday with a group of about 40 friends,
Aside from the fact that I'm totally afraid of water, and a complete chicken - everyone else had a great time. I personally won't venture back out on the river (but like I said I'm a big chicken)
good package, and a fun trip to do with a large group tho, the staff was friendly and helpful and very very knowleable, and you can tell that they have been down the river MORE than a time or two, cause they told us everything to expect. -
Review from Mimi C.
Fairfield, CA
9/3/2007
We used Russian River Adventures over Labor Day weekend and had a blast with our dogs. We chose this company specifically because they are dog-friendly. We packed a picnic and some drinks and enjoyed the ride down the river. Our dogs had a great time in the water and in the canoe. This stretch of river is very calm so for the most part you are doing most of the work especially during the last hour.
All in all tho we would definitely do it again and next time we're bringing more friends. -
Review from Sheryl H.
San Jose, CA
9/7/2008
We were looking for something fun and active to do over the summer with our dogs and a friend suggested this - otherwise we would have never known about them. The fact that they are dog friendly is such a huge plus!
The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. The rafts are great as they are big enough for two people, plus a big cooler and a big dog! If you bring a cooler they will truck it down to the river bank for you while you sign all necessary paperwork and walk over.
The river was great as there were plenty of fun places to stop, plus a couple of rope swings if you're adventurous.
Once you hit a point in the river, you are asked to make a phone call so they are ready to pick you up. It's a bit of a long ride back but it was nice to chill and pass out a bit after a long day on the river. Our dogs were pooped too!
Back at their office there's also a rinsing station for you to wash off and hose down your belongings (and your dogs too). They really thought of everything.
I highly recommend this for anyone. The river was calm and safe - and it was just such a huge bonus that we found something like this that we can do with our dogs. -
Review from Katie D.
Redwood City, CA
6/23/2008
We had a great time with Russian River Adventures! Four of us and our two dogs spent 6 lazy hours floating down the river. Three of us had been with "metal" canoe rental companies before, and our experience with Russian River Adventures doesn't even compare. First off, we were allowed to bring our two pups with us, and we were greeted upon arrival by one of the employees with dog biscuits in hand. After checking in, we made the short walk down to the river, and were given a 5 minute safety/river information speech and were sent on our way.
The SOAR inflatable canoes were very comfortable, and we had more than enough room for 2 humans, a very excited lab, dry bag and a large cooler. The 8 mile stretch of the river was awesome, and the few people we saw the entire trip were other SOAR canoers (so we didn't have to hear the screeching metal canoes make). We were told about 2 rope swings along the route, and our companion deemed the second as "the best rope swing" he had ever been on. In addition to the plentiful gravel beaches and swimming holes, we saw many different types of birds.
The dogs loved the trip and were exhausted after a fun-filled day of swimming and running. (On a side note, both dogs previously enjoy wading in the water, but we bought life vests for them, which gave them an added sense of security to venture into deeper water, and by the end of the trip, they were both leaping into the water off the boat). Both dogs were so tired, they feel asleep on the van ride back to Russian River Adventures' parking lot.
I would definitely recommend Russian River Adventures for anyone interested in a fun, safe, family & dog friendly outing! -
Review from kim s.
Antioch, CA
8/10/2009
Well, the thought of floating down the river was nice, but the reality is that there was a lot of work involved. If you are not physically fit, then don't plan on doing this trip!
I brought my dog and the canoe was very stable (no tipping over...not even when she jumped out to chase ducks). The people at SOAR were laid back and easy to deal with, but I do wish that they had some sort of instruction sheet that would have been attatched to our dry bag. It all goes so quick and when you're out there running into a tree branch, it's hard to remember what it is that you're supposed to do to get out of the mess...or how to avoid it.
Bottom line...if you are looking to get in 4 to 5 hours of exercise in a lovely setting, then this is the trip for you! -
Review from Jim L.
Encinitas, CA
8/6/2011
The trip was everything we expected. We loved floating down the river and enjoying a picnic with our wine we bought at one of the wineries. The staff was great and added plus was having car driven to where we excited to river.
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Review from Topher G.
Chicago, IL
7/22/2010
I've been meaning to write a review for this place for sometime now. Went out on the Russian River with SOAR in mid-June and it was nothing short of EXCELLENT. The staff is soo friendly and helpful. We did as they recommended and took our time on the River. We hardly paddled at all and the canoe really did most of the work. So many people that were out on the River with us that day went as fast as they could and must have finished in no time. There were a few of us "slackers" who came in last but spent the entire day, 10am-4:30 or 5pm on the river and had a blast. If you're in Healdsburg and have the time, this is really easy and fun way to get out and see the "other side" of wine country.
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Review from Meredith C.
Valencia, CA
7/16/2011
Our family of 5 enjoyed our journey down the river this week (and included 3 boys ages 7, 5, and under 2). We all fit into the kayak comfortably with our cooler and also noticed lots of guests brought their dogs. This is a great family opportunity! Re-apply sunblock frequently, pack food/snacks, camera, shoes, and sunglasses/hat. The staff is friendly and helpful. Lots of opportunities to stop and play in the water, rest, and eat.
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Review from Anne M.
Orinda, CA
9/4/2010
On the plus side, the stretch of river they take you on is beautiful. We saw turtles, egrets, and other wildlife, and stopped several times to rest and have a snack and swim.
On the negative side, however, was the staff person who dealt with us the day we were there. It was clearly a HUGE inconvenience to her to have to deal with us. At the launch, she raced through lots of presumably important information, with encouraging remarks like "if you take your boat out of the water and leave the the back end out, it will explode and the only way to rescue you will be by helicopter, which will cost you $3000."
The boats are hard to maneuver - harder than standard canoes or kayaks (thought the extra stability was appreciated.) We struggled for the first couple of miles, eventually figuring out some simple pointers that COULD have been told to us at the beginning.
Also we were told that at the end, we would see a bridge and needed to pull in on the right side at a place that was big enough to have their truck back down. The trees were growing into the water at the take out place; you could not see it from ahead but only when you were right next to it and looking 90 degrees to the side. I'm not sure we would have found it if we hadn't seen another boat going in. They can't tie a piece of orange tape to one of the trees?!
It's a beautiful stretch of river, but don't expect any support. Though other reviews here are raving about the staff, so maybe we got somebody on a very bad day, or the new hire who isn't working out. -
Review from heather w.
Berkeley, CA
8/17/2008
Had a great time today, enjoying the beautiful riparian river banks, the amazing birds, too many to name, but included many amusing ducks, and an eagle coming down for a dive at some prey (wow!), also terrapins, little tiny fishies (what are those??), and a couple of skittery lizards when we took a break. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and it was a great way to spend a day, but I have to warn some people here, I've done white water rafting, am in excellent physical condition including rowing 5K at the gym at least a couple times a week (Yeah I know, not the same thing, but uses the same muscles) and doing hardcore circuit training, and in all honesty, the last half of this river is dead calm this time of year, and today there was a hard wind, going against us, and Me and Secret Squirrel (himself a physical animal) got our asses kicked. I'm not kidding you, if we didn't paddle to save our lives, we went BACK UP RIVER!!! I watched a single woman and her 8 year-old son barely manage the trip, she was exhausted, but pleased that her boy bucked up at the ruthless end half to help her out. Another couple got completely fed up, and the guy got out and tried to walk the boat up-river, which didn't work out very well. Another guy, with two kids, desparately asked several passing boats "who's the power rower? the rear or the head???" Nearly everyone I saw coming out at the end had scowls on their faces, wouldn't even return my smile. These were unhappy people who are going to be very unhappy tomorrow when they can't move due to soreness. There were a few floats (I'd call them canoes or kayaks, but they're not -- they are Pigs, as noted by another reviewer) that came out happy enough with their experience, but it was clear that they were physically exhausted. It was a very, very grueling couple of hours.
So I think this can be a great thing to do; safe, quiet, and beautiful. But, since their website and literature touts this as a "leisurely" trip down the river, the staff should warn people that during certain times of the year the water is completely still and you will have to work like a dog to get yourself to the endpoint. Additionally, I think they should have one or two staff members cruising the harder parts to keep people's spirits up as they struggle along, or help out as needed. I really think it would be the safest thing to do, as here I sit, my muscles sore, but I'm used to that. I know there are least several people in today's group that will never, ever try this again and that's too bad. -
Review from B B.
Dublin, CA
5/17/2010
Great trip down the river with this group. Great time and would use them again for sure. Only comment is when you do arrive at the end of trip be prepared to wait for other groups. Can be tiring as it is a long paddle down the river. However, it is so worth it having great inflatable boats verses the metal kind. Will do this trip again with the kids and dogs would love the trip too! Took trip July 2009 sorry for delay on post. Going this year too!!!
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Review from Tom B.
San Bruno, CA
6/3/2008
Just thought I'd let you know about a surprisingly cool canoe experience we had on the Russian River this Saturday. We left out of Healdsburg with Russian River Adventures. Usual put-in time is 10:30 but they let us head out early at 9:30. Owner Larry Laba was with us for the first part of the paddle as he was out to cut back some strainers in a few spots. Turns out he is the designer of the SOAR inflatable canoes we were using. Took a little bit to get used to not having a keel but we got it dialed in pretty quick.
As our boats were close for a while, we were talking about some longer expedition trips and he mentioned his preference for a single-blade paddle (we were given 2x-bladed kayak paddles for this trip). When I told him I preferred the same, he got a smile on his face and immediately tossed me his single-bladed spare. Best on-the-river customer service ever!
Anyway, to get to the point, this was a birders paradise. Over the course of our 3-4 hour trip, we saw several osprey, plenty of mergansers with their young, kingfishers, great blue herons, little blue herons, a great egret or two, a black-headed grosbeak, countless bank swallows, and a few pairs of Red Tail Hawks.
The kicker was to see a juvenile Bald Eagle swoop down out of a tree to harass some mallards on a gravel bank. Very cool and not something you'd expect to see here in the Bay Area. Shortly after, we saw an adult Bald Eagle sitting high up in a tree on the bank. We saw what I assume was this same eagle once or twice more as we went downstream.
To make it even better, we never saw another person on the river the entire trip. Overall a great experience. Larry's staff both before and afterwards were super-friendly and helpful and I will definitely be heading back. They were even kind enough, since they had time, to shuttle my truck to the end for me at no extra charge. Nothing like the spring-break-like atmosphere of Burke's father downriver and this is by far a much prettier stretch of water (takeout was just above the Wohler Bridge).
Kudos to Larry and his staff for providing a really fun day- worth every penny. If you haven't already, check out these guys and this stretch of the Russian River. -
Review from Drew B.
Sacramento, CA
6/11/2010
We took the family out on the river last weekend and had a GREAT time. It's not just lazy floating, but it was tame enough that our 2 year old who is not adventurous did fine. Dad got a decent workout keeping the boat out of the low-hanging branches coming out of the bends. There are lots of places to stop for a picnic on the scenic river. SOAR was very professional, provides you all the major equipment you need, and will even drive your car to the ending spot (great for those with child seats). Perfect for families and highly recommended! By the end of the day, you'll be very pleased with the bang for your buck.
