Page: Boat Tour of Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon

Exploring the Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon Boat Tour: An Honest Take

If you’re eyeing a boat tour of Lake Powell that combines natural beauty with iconic landmarks, you’re probably weighing your options. This particular experience, offered by Aramark Destinations, aims to give you a quick but immersive glimpse into some of Arizona’s most stunning sceneries. With a duration of about 1.5 hours, it’s designed to fit into a busy itinerary while still delivering memorable views and moments.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances easy accessibility with impressive sights. You get to see Glen Canyon Dam, Antelope Canyon, and the expansive Lake Powell all from the water, which often offers a different perspective that photos and land visits can’t quite capture. Plus, the inclusion of refreshing drinks like lemonade, water, and coffee adds a nice touch of refreshment during the cruise.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include hiking or inside visits to Antelope Canyon itself—it’s a boat-based experience. For folks wanting to explore the canyon’s interior, this might feel a bit limited. Also, it’s worth noting that some reviews highlight cancellations or mechanical issues, which can be frustrating when you’ve planned around it. So, if you’re booking, be sure to check the latest status and consider flexible plans.

This trip is best suited for travelers seeking a short, scenic overview of these incredible sites—perfect if you’re pressed for time or prefer a relaxed, guided experience. It’s a solid pick for those who enjoy water-based explorations and want to see the highlights without a long day of hiking or driving.

Key Points

• Water-based sightseeing offers a unique view of iconic landmarks.
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of the scenery and geology.
• Refreshments onboard add comfort to the 1.5-hour cruise.
• Limited access to canyon interiors means some natural features are only seen from the water.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personal experience.
• Cancellations or delays can occur, so flexible planning is wise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect From This Scenic Boat Tour

This cruise promises a guided journey through some of Arizona’s most impressive geological and man-made marvels. Starting at Lake Powell, you’ll cruise through Wahweap Bay, where the views of the surrounding cliffs and water are particularly striking. The boat heads toward the lower end of Antelope Canyon, allowing you to view its narrow, colorful, and sculpted canyon walls from the water—an experience that’s quite different from the usual land-based visits.

The gorge-like formations of Navajo Sandstone are a highlight here, with their deep reds and burnt oranges adding vibrancy to the landscape. These cliffs tower overhead, creating a sense of scale that’s hard to match. The tour also includes a stop at the Glen Canyon Dam, the second-largest concrete arch dam in the US. From the boat, you’ll get a good look at this impressive feat of engineering, which is especially interesting given the context of the Colorado River and its reservoirs.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be offered coffee, lemonade, or water, making the experience more comfortable—especially on warmer days. The boat itself is designed for sightseeing, with an open upper deck that gives unobstructed views and a lower deck to listen to the commentary (though, as some reviews mention, engine noise might make it difficult to hear at the back).

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: You’ll meet at the Lake Powell Resorts lobby about 30 minutes before departure, with boarding starting 15 minutes ahead of time. This gives you a little buffer to settle in and get your cameras ready.

Antelope Canyon: Although this isn’t a land tour inside the canyon, the boat allows you to see the narrow and colorful canyon walls from the water. You’ll view about 4 miles of canyon wall, which provides a unique perspective and some fantastic photo ops. Many travelers, like the one who called it an “amazing experience,” appreciate how this view differs from the land-based tours.

Wahweap Bay & Lake Powell: Cruising through Wahweap Bay, you’ll marvel at the vastness of the lake and the towering Navajo Sandstone cliffs. This is a moment of awe for many, especially those who appreciate geological formations and scenic water vistas.

Glen Canyon Dam: One of the highlights is seeing this second-largest concrete arch dam up close from the water. The dam is a symbol of both human ingenuity and the vastness of the landscape. Some reviews mention that being able to see the dam from the water adds a different dimension to the visit, making it more tangible and impressive.

Return to Wahweap Marina: The cruise wraps up back where it started, leaving you with a sense of having experienced a snapshot of the region’s natural and engineered wonders in a short, enjoyable trip.

The Value of This Tour

At $119 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see some key sights without the commitment of a full-day or multi-day adventure. Given that it includes guidance and drinks, and the boat is only for small groups, it feels like a more personal experience than larger, crowd-filled tours.

However, some reviews point out issues like cancellations or mechanical problems, which can impact your plans. It’s a good idea to confirm your booking and check for the latest updates, especially since the tour may run only if a minimum number of passengers sign up.

For travelers who prefer guided commentary and easy access to scenic views—without the physical exertion—this cruise is a good fit. It’s particularly well-suited for those with limited mobility who can’t or don’t want to hike into the canyon but still want to appreciate its splendor from the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for those short on time but eager to experience the essence of Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, guided experience with some great photo opportunities and learning about the landscape.

Travelers who enjoy water-based sightseeing and want a personalized, small-group environment will find this appealing. Keep in mind, if you’re hoping to explore Antelope Canyon by foot or inside the narrows, you’ll need a different tour, as this one bypasses that aspect altogether.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any food available during the tour?
No, there’s no food for purchase onboard. However, you are encouraged to bring snacks with you if you’d like to nibble during the cruise.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a good option to slot into a day full of other activities without feeling exhausted.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, you can enjoy water, lemonade, or coffee as part of the experience, which adds a nice touch of refreshment.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks if you like, and consider wearing sun protection and comfortable clothing suited for a boat cruise.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it’s ADA accessible, so travelers with mobility needs should find it manageable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour of Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Glen Canyon offers an efficient, scenic way to see some of Arizona’s most striking landscapes. While it’s not for those seeking an inside canyon experience, it compensates with stunning water views, engaging commentary, and the chance to see man-made and natural features from a unique perspective.

If you value small-group tours, guided insights, and relaxing sightseeing, this cruise could be a lovely addition to your trip. Just remember to check on the tour’s operational status, especially if weather or water levels might impact your experience. For those wanting a light, scenic overview without the hassle of land-based tours or hiking, this is definitely worth considering.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, a short boat cruise like this can make your day feel just a little more special—marveling at the beauty of the American Southwest from the water.

Happy exploring!

You can check availability for your dates here: