Meet the Captain – Columbia River Boat Captain Wenatchee

Meet the Captain

Welcome aboard! I’m Captain Wiley, your experienced Columbia River Boat Captain in Wenatchee, and I can’t wait to show you the heart of Central Washington from the water. With decades of experience across the country in boating, fishing, parasailing, and watersports, I’ve created Wiley’s Boat Rides to offer unforgettable journeys on one of America’s greatest rivers—the mighty Columbia.

Together with my wife Debbie, our son Daxton, and our adventurous pup Scout, we call Wenatchee home. Every trip we take with guests like you is a chance to share the beauty, excitement, and serenity of this incredible place. Whether you’re joining us for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful cruise, you’ll be in good hands with a certified Columbia River Boat Captain in Wenatchee who’s seen it all.

A Lifetime on the Water

From deckhand to captain, my waterborne journey has taken me across coastlines, lakes, and bays in all corners of the U.S. Here’s a quick look at my background

Lake Michigan (2002–2007)

Offshore charter fishing where I advanced from deckhand to licensed captain, mastering vessels between 24’–36’ and gaining deep-sea navigation skills.

Key West, FL (2013–2015)

Guided snorkeling, fishing, and backcountry trips aboard vessels up to 80’. Learned to navigate unpredictable tides and remote waters.

Lake Chelan & Tacoma (2014–2018)

Operated parasail boats and charter boats solo, including business ownership and operational consulting.

Grand Traverse Bay & Outer Banks (2008–2014, 2019)

Parasail Captain and Operations Manager, guiding 28’–31’ boats and managing entire sites.

Sailing the Bahamas (2012–2013)

Navigated a 37’ offshore sailboat with a rigid hull inflatable from North Carolina through the Bermuda Triangle to Georgetown, Bahamas.

Each of these roles helped shape me into the dedicated Columbia River Boat Captain in Wenatchee I am today.

From Dream to Reality

The concept for Wiley’s Boat Rides was born in 2016, and by 2021, it became a full-fledged reality. In 2023, I personally customized our signature vessel to elevate both comfort and excitement—offering one of the finest Columbia River Boat Captain Wenatchee experiences available.

Wiley’s Boat Rides isn’t just a tour—it’s the culmination of decades of hands-on experience, national certifications, and a genuine love for watersports. Every spin, drift, and story shared aboard reflects that passion.

A Ride With Purpose and Personality

Each trip with Wiley is more than just a boat ride — it’s an immersive experience. From safety briefings to splashy turns, Captain Wiley strikes a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. As your dedicated Columbia River Boat Captain in Wenatchee, he’s also known for

Planning something special? From Wenatchee proposals to corporate outings, Captain Wiley can help you personalize your experience.

Certified and Ready to Ride

When you ride with Wiley’s, you’re not just along for the views—you’re with a captain whose credentials meet the highest federal standards:

With over 20 years of experience and the seal of federal certification, you can trust every ride with your Columbia River Boat Captain in Wenatchee to be safe, thrilling, and expertly navigated.

Plan Your Ride with Wiley

Whether you’re booking a Jet Boat Ride Wenatchee or relaxing on a Columbia River Boat Tour Wenatchee, you’ll benefit from my years on the water and dedication to your fun and safety.

Curious about the river? Learn more on Wikipedia’s Columbia River page or check the Wenatchee Weather Forecast before your ride.

Book Now to experience the Columbia River with an expert Columbia River Boat Captain in Wenatchee.

What Our Riders Say

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Our Gallery

Moments from the River

From scenic landscapes to on-the-water action shots, every ride includes a digital photo and video package. Explore the adventure in our visual gallery.