James River Batteau festival Launch

On the day of the launch, Saturday, June 18, boats will be launching from Percivals Island to the sound of the cannon blast at 11:00am. The boats will be announced by Jeff Taylor as they pull into the island starting around 9:30am. The community is invited to come down to Percival’s Island and check out the boats and wave them off as they depart down the James for the 8 day journey to Maidens Landing in Powhattan, VA. JRBF merchandise will be on sale at Percivals from 10am-11:30am. 

Plastic boaters (canoeists, kayakers, and paddleboarders) are invited to accompany the batteaux down the river. Camp fees can be paid online at https://vacanals.org/batteau/jrbf-home/ 

Camp Fees: $6 daily/ $26 full week (8 days)

JRBF TIPS FOR RIVER SAFETY
1. LOOK COOL & WEAR A PFD (personal floatation device) or keep one on your vessel at all times- it’s the law! Also remember to wear protective eyewear, a hat, proper clothing, and sunscreen.
2. PROTECT YOUR FEET Wear closed-toe water shoes with a secure grip. Cleaning and keeping your feet dry at night keeps the river rash at bay.
3. NEVER BOAT ALONE or you could end up lost in a corn field on Elks Island
4. BATTEAUX HAVE THE RIGHT AWAY! The batteaux cannot stop quickly once they are in motion.
5. STAY HYDRATED Keep a water bottle within reach and try to drink a bottle before launch, at lunch, reaching camp, and before bed or go drink for drink
6. RESPECT THE RIVER by staying alert and cautious of your surroundings and water conditions. Swim butt down, feet up!
7. When in doubt refer back to rule #1

Remember, the river taketh and the river giveth. By following these safety tips we hope that the river only taketh a hat or pair of sunglasses and that the river giveth a wonderful week of good times on the James!