The Great Egg Harbor River has plenty of stories to tell. Its history, local legends and surrounding wildlife offer a look at a side of South Jersey that many residents and visitors have not experienced from the water.
Gallion, owner and captain of River Rat, is inviting guests aboard his tiki-style boat at Mays Landing Marina for scenic cruises that combine sightseeing, storytelling and entertainment.
“I always thought for years there’s nothing down here like this,” Gallion said. “Our river is gorgeous, with bald eagles, herons and all kinds of stuff to look at. One year, I reset my life, got my captain’s license, and here we are.”
Launching River Rat marks a new chapter for Gallion, who worked as a boat mechanic for more than 25 years. With support from his family, he turned his boating experience and appreciation for the river into a tour business.
One of River Rat’s main attractions is its haunted history tour. During the approximately one-hour cruise, storytellers share tales about the communities and events connected to the Great Egg Harbor River.
South Jersey has centuries of history, and the areas surrounding the river have developed their own collection of legends and spooky stories. River Rat uses the waterway as the setting for an experience that blends local history with sightseeing.
“We go for an hour ride and tell some stories,” Gallion said. “There’s a lot of spooky history around here.”
The tours are designed for people interested in local history as well as those looking for a seasonal outing with a touch of mystery. As the boat moves along the river, passengers can take in the scenery while hearing stories connected to the area.
The initial haunted tours sold out quickly, prompting Gallion to consider other ways to bring people onto the water.
River Rat now offers private movie nights aboard the tiki boat. Gallion installed a projector and screen, turning the vessel into a floating movie-viewing space. Friends and small groups can rent the boat for a two-hour cruise and watch a movie of their choice.
The private rental costs less than $400 and offers an alternative for birthdays, celebrations or casual gatherings. Guests can bring their own food and beverages, select a favorite film and spend the evening on the river.
The movie nights offer a different experience from a traditional theater or night at home. Guests can enjoy the surrounding landscape before settling in to watch a horror movie, classic film or another selection on the boat.
River Rat also draws attention to the inland waterways that help define South Jersey. The region may be best known for its beaches, boardwalks and coastal towns, but its rivers offer additional opportunities for recreation, wildlife viewing and exploration.
The Great Egg Harbor River stretches through forests, wetlands and communities before reaching Great Egg Harbor Bay. Its waters and surrounding habitats are home to bald eagles, herons and other wildlife.
That natural setting played a major role in Gallion’s decision to start the business. His years as a boat mechanic gave him extensive experience with vessels, while earning his captain’s license gave him a way to share the river with others.
As River Rat’s first season continues, Gallion plans to operate as long as weather and water conditions permit.
The combination of haunted storytelling cruises and private movie nights offers residents and visitors a different way to experience the Mays Landing waterfront without traveling far from home.
Reservations can be made by calling Gallion at 856-879-5216. River Rat can also be found on Facebook at The River Rat and on Instagram at @riverratnj.
Holly Martin has been immersed in the media world since 2012, building a dynamic and versatile career that spans nearly every corner of the industry. She has also hosted as a DJ and created the blog SNJ Sober Party Girl. She enjoys sharing stories that inspire connection and community.
