Rogue River, Oregon Excursions
 

Could someone tell me the difference in taking a Rogue River excursion from Gold Beach vs. Grants Pass? Do you get wet, or is there a boat that is enclosed? Thanks for any help.

If you are talking about the mail boat (and that is who does most of the advertising), it is an open boat holding about 20. It is a blast. If you can arrange to take the trip, do so. When we did it we were in our late 60s, so it is pretty much for all ages. If you are lucky, you will see some wildlife along the way...certainly a bald eagle or two. When the guide does a doughnut (and he will), you might get some spray in your face but you will be so exhilarated that you won't notice it. Wear warm clothes.

Ooops...out of Gold Beach. The boat trip does not come up the river as far as Grant's Pass, so I don't know about any trips from that end.

Another swipe at this...Google "Grant's Pass" + raft and "Gold Beach" + "jet boat" for lots of pictures and details.

Ms. Vic, I think you're probably referring to the Jet Boats. The difference will be in the scenery.
In between the 2 is the Wild and Scenic portion of the Rogue, which you raft or kayak. This section requires a permit.
http://www.c-w-r.com/rivers/rogue-river.html
I've never taken the Gold Beach Mail Boats but the Hellgate ones have a lunch or dinner option that is quite a bit of fun.
http://www.hellgate.com/Page.asp?NavID=38
We've done this one several times, both as part of group functions and when relatives come to town.
You can also raft other sections of the Rogue and Klamath at several outfitters out of Ashland.
http://www.raftingtours.com/
http://www.kokopelliriverguides.com/
http://www.noahsrafting.com/cat_index_113.html

You are much more likely to see wildlife when taking the mailboat out of Gold Beach, which goes as far as Agness for the half day tour with lunch at Agness. You will get wet on either trip- how much depends on your driver. To minimize this, sit near the back of the boat. The jet boat out of Grants Pass is more for seeing the scenery and enjoying the ride, although there is an dinner option.

Have only done the Jetboats out of Gold Beach- Jerrys. It is very fun- I recommend the all day trip- for lunch you will stop at one of the lodges. The boat is not enclosed- and on a hot summer day you will get wet- you get into water fights with rafters along the way and also the pilot of the boat will do some spins that will pretty much soak everyone.
I have done it several times - and enjoy every minute of it.
I have also hiked into Paradise and taken the jet boat out - that was an adventure