Start Your Next Adventure with Fly Hovercraft
Fly Hovercraft LeClaire - Iowa
Simply the Best Tour
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Forget the usual river tours. For decades, our seasoned hovercraft pilots have been quietly exploring the Mississippi's most captivating secrets. These aren't just guides; they're passionate river enthusiasts who've spent years uncovering its hidden beaches, enchanting islands, and labyrinthine backwaters – all for the sheer thrill of it. Now, they're ready to share their insider knowledge with you on an extraordinary hovercraft adventure. Prepare to witness a side of the Mississippi unseen by most, gliding effortlessly over water and land to discover secluded havens and breathtaking vistas that traditional boats simply can't reach. Unlock the river's hidden wonders. Book your unique hovercraft experience now!
Fun for the Whole Family
The tour departs LeClaire, IA and heads north up the Mississippi River. LeClaire is a picturesque town off the banks of the Mississippi River and is host to many restaurants, distillery, brew pub, cruise ship and shops including American Pickers.
You will see wildlife including Eagles, Great Blue Heron, Pelicans, Beavers, Otters and Puddle Ducks to name a few. Hovercrafts operate in channels and backwaters that other boats are unable to because of water depth and debris, so we get a unique look at wildlife and the unseen.
The return trip is down the Illinois side of the river where you will see more backwaters and wildlife. The captain will make 1 or more stops along the way so you can take in the sights, take pictures and stretch your legs. Tours are seasonal: May, 1 – October, 29 2024.
Hovercraft "fly" on an 8-inch cushion of air making the vehicle capable of safely traveling on land or water. Hovercraft Captains call it flying because the hovercraft is not touching the surface. Unlike boats, the hovercrafts air cushion allows it to travel safely over the Mississippi River regardless of depth or underwater obstacles.
Our pilots are Master Operators with United States Coat Guard Captains Licenses and thousands of hours of experience ensuring you have an awesome ride.
Our Hovercraft is a 21' composite design made of solid foam, Kevlar and fiberglass making it an awesome performing and unsinkable machine.
Enclosed & Heated Cockpit
Safe & Efficient Way to Travel
Keep your friends and family out of the elements in our fully enclosed cockpit. Our bubble canopy allows unrestricted views while experiencing 360 spins, side slides and land to water transitions. The cockpit is heated for fall and winter operation. Passengers will stay nice an cozy.
Where we go:
30 min Tour
Prepare for an unforgettable thrill on the Mississippi! Your hovercraft adventure begins at Hoverport LeClaire, where you'll smoothly glide from land to water and journey north along the scenic Iowa riverbank. Keep your eyes peeled as we expertly navigate near Long Island, offering up-close encounters with native birds and turtles in their natural habitat. Continuing our exhilarating ride towards Princeton, we'll then sweep across the river to the Illinois side, circling Bob Windt Island with a thrilling 360-degree spin before, conditions allowing, touching down on the island itself! This is your chance to hop out, capture some amazing photos with your crew, and soak in the unique surroundings. Our return trip down the Illinois side promises more wildlife sightings and picturesque lily pad formations before we cruise past Port Byron and head west for a smooth landing back in LeClaire. This isn't just a ride; it's a taste of flight and a unique exploration of the river's wonders!
$39
* Per Person
*2 person minimum
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure on the mighty Mississippi! Leaving the charming town of LeClaire, Iowa, we'll surge northward, cruising past the picturesque shores of Port Byron, Illinois, just across the river. Then, hold on tight as we carve a thrilling path across the water after about three miles, landing us on the Illinois side and heading straight for the legendary Bob Windt Island! There, we'll unleash some seriously fun maneuvers, creating memories and splashes before pausing to explore this unique spot and snap the perfect picture.
But the excitement doesn't stop there! We'll continue our journey, gliding past the inviting towns of Princeton, Iowa, and Cordova, Illinois, before making our way back to the Iowa side to enter the enchanting Steam Boat Slough. Prepare to be captivated as we navigate the serene backwaters behind Princeton Beach, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Finally, we'll turn downriver, crossing gracefully in front of Princeton Beach, and set a leisurely course past Princeton, Iowa, for a smooth and gentle return to our starting point in LeClaire, Iowa. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
1 hour Tour
child $59
Adult $69
* Per Person
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Building on the 1 hour adventure, get ready for even more excitement! After our exhilarating visit to Bob Windt Island and our exploration of Steam Boat Slough, our journey continues with a serene cruise through the tranquil Shricker Slough. We'll meander gently past the welcoming shores of Camanche, Iowa, before making a scenic crossing of the Mississippi in front of Albany, Illinois.
Now, prepare for a different kind of thrill as we head south, navigating the captivating backwaters while setting our course for the charming town of Princeton, Iowa. This leg of our adventure promises stunning views and a unique perspective on the river's hidden beauty before we eventually make our way back to LeClaire. Explore. Enjoy.
1.5 hour Tour
child $99
Adult $109
* Per Person
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Super Tour
Super Charter: Unlock the Mississippi, Your Way.
Imagine a river journey crafted just for you. Super Charter offers private, customizable tours (3.5 – 8 hours) primarily navigating the scenic waters between LeClaire and Clinton, Iowa. Tell us your passion – be it wildlife, photography, local lore, or pure relaxation – and we'll create your perfect day on the river.
For those craving grander vistas, we also offer expeditions to the majestic Chestnut Mountain area near Galena, Illinois.
Explore our two main customizable adventure options:
Eco Friendly River Exploration
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Our hovercraft tours let you experience the river responsibly. They burn 60% less fuel than traditional boats carrying the same number of passengers! Unlike traditional boats, our hovercrafts don't release harmful exhaust gases into the river. With no propeller in the water, underwater wildlife is safe. Enjoy a smoother, quieter ride while minimizing your environmental impact. Explore hidden wonders and pristine ecosystems, all while making a sustainable choice. Book your eco-conscious hovercraft tour today!
Hovercraft Ride Facts
How long is the ride? Rides are 15 min, 30 min, 1 hour or 1.5 hours in duration and cover 6 -20 - 40 + miles. Custom charters are available.
How fast does it go? While the hovercraft is capable of 60+ mph, top speed on your ride will be about 30 mph.
How many passengers can ride at one time? Our cockpit holds 4-5 passengers depending on payload. Maximum passenger payload 1,050 lbs.
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What is the cost? 30 min tour $39 per person. 1 hour tour: Adults (12 & Older) are $69. Children are $59. Lap children are free. 90 minute tour. Adults (12 & Older) are $109. Children are $99. Lap children are free.
Where do the rides operate from? LeClaire Iowa at the intersection of Ferry Street and the Mississippi River. Our address is 112 Ferry Street. See the map below.
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Still have questions? Please contact us, we are happy to answer any questions you may have: 779-774-8069, text the same number or email support@flyhovercraft.com.
How do I book? Book online not available at this time, call us at 779-774-8069, text the same number or email support@flyhovercraft.com. Walk ups are welcome, however booking guarantees your seat.
Tour Pricing
30 Min River Tour - $39 per person - 2 person minimum
1 Hour River Tour - Adults $69 - Children (12 & under) $59
1 1/2 Hour River Tour - Adults $109 - Children (12 & under) $99
Fly with us in LeClaire Iowa
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Susan 4/12/25
What an amazing ride! Gliding over the Mississippi River in the hovercraft was unlike anything else. Seeing LeClaire from the water and feeling that unique sensation of floating was fantastic
Chad 4/20/25
I was woried about the "360 spin" portion of the ride. Nothing to worry about. Its smooth and graceful. I will do this again with more of my friends.
Fly with us in LeClaire Iowa
Alex 2/1/24
That is the ONLY way to see this lake.
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Alex
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-Lake Geneva 2024
Jose 2/3/24
I'm bringing my brother and his kids back tomorrow. That was awesome!
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Jose
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-Lake geneva 2024
Sara 2/4/24
I have never felt more safe on the ice. It felt like we could go anywhere. Thank you Fly Hovercraft and captain Pat.
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Sara
-lake Geneva 2024
Fly with us in LeClaire Iowa
Sue 9/2/23
We really enjoyed the ride! I posted it on my Facebook page, and got many positive responses from friends, they want to try it!
Sue
Steph 9/3/23
Greetings-we had a blast on the hovercraft ride-loved the time you took toanswer questions and let us take pics on the little sand area. Very cool!!
We enjoyed our whole trip to LeClaire.
Thanks again-
Steph
Eric 9/3/23
Our hovercraft pilot was the most skilled I've ever seen on the Mississippi River. I will do again.
Awesome - Eric