Summer is upon us and Americans are gearing up for vacation time. 10Best set out to find the best adventure tours – boats, helicopters, rafting trips, hot air balloons, trains and fishing excursions – and adventure travel companies to help you plan your ultimate trip. After four weeks of voting, we have our winners.
Click on each category below to see the full list of winners:
Best Adventure Travel Company: G Adventures
Winning company offers itineraries across the globe — Photo courtesy of G Adventures
G Adventures specializes in small group adventure travel, with itineraries designed for active travelers, wellness tourists, families and the 18-to-thirty-something crowd. Trips take travelers to destinations throughout the world, including the polar regions.
Full list of winners: Adventure Travel Company »
Best Boat Tour: NYCbySEA
See the Big Apple from the water with this winning tour operator — Photo courtesy of Mike/NYCbySEA
One of the newest and best ways to see Manhattan is aboard one of NYCbySEA’s 28-foot powerboat cruisers. Each hour-long excursion is limited to six passengers, so everyone onboard has an excellent view of the sights of the historic New York Harbor, Hudson River, East River and Battery Park.
Full list of winners: Best Boat Tour »
Best Fishing Tour: Angling Unlimited
Winning fishing charter operates out of Sitka, Alaska — Photo courtesy of iStock / filo
Sitka visitors hoping to catch salmon or halibut can charter a boat from Angling Unlimited. The waters near Sitka offer some of the best saltwater salmon fishing in the world, and depending on the season, it’s possible to catch king salmon, halibut and rockfish in the same day.
Full list of winners: Best Fishing Tour »
Best Helicopter Tour: Sundance Helicopters
Soar over Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon with this winner — Photo courtesy of Sundance Helicopters
Sundance Helicopters take scenic flights above Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam. Passengers can combine their flight with a Pink Jeep tour, boat trip through the Grand Canyon, ATV ride through Lake Mead National Park or a wine tasting and dinner at one of Nevada’s top restaurants.
Full list of winners: Best Helicopter Tour »
Best Hot Air Balloon Ride: Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides
Winning balloon company has been flying the skies of Napa since 1978 — Photo courtesy of Napa Valley Aloft Balloon Rides
Napa Valley Aloft has been flying the skies of Napa Valley since 1978. Baskets are smaller than competitors which gives passengers better views and a more personalized experience as they float above the rolling vineyards.
Full list of winners: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride »
Best Scenic Train Ride: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Winning train passes through New Mexico and Colorado — Photo courtesy of Kim Todd
One of the most authentic steam-operated railroads in existence, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs for 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, passing through the San Juan Mountains and the scenic Conejos Valley along the way. This moving National Historic Landmark represents one of New Mexico's most spectacular day trips.
Full list of winners: Best Scenic Train Ride »
Best White Water Rafting Tour: Western River Expeditions
Rafting winner offers adventures in the U.S. and Costa Rica — Photo courtesy of Western River Expeditions
Western River Expeditions has more than 50 years of experience guiding trips along the rivers and canyons of the American West. Today, the company offers itineraries in Arizona (Grand Canyon), Utah, Idaho, Oregon and Costa Rica.
Full list of winners: Best White Water Rafting Tour »
Congratulations to all of our adventure tour winners. Remember to visit 10Best.com daily to vote in other Readers' Choice categories.