Navajo Canyon Boat Tour

Navajo Canyon Boat Tour Review

If you’re exploring Page, Arizona, and looking for a peaceful yet visually striking adventure, the Navajo Canyon Boat Tour might be worth your consideration. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, based on the details and traveler feedback, it seems like a well-rounded experience for those eager to see some of the area’s natural beauty from the water.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines a chance to see the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S. with the awe-inspiring Navajo Sandstone formations. Plus, the fact that it’s a relatively short trip—just under four hours—makes it appealing for travelers who want a scenic outing without committing an entire day.

That said, one potential drawback is the cost. At around $118.54 per person, it’s not the cheapest activity in town, especially considering the extra government fee of $30. But if stunning vistas and a relaxing cruise are what you’re after, many find it worth the price. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate natural scenery and are comfortable spending a few hours on a boat while soaking in impressive geological features.

If you love easy, scenic excursions that highlight the iconic landscape surrounding Lake Powell, this might be just the right fit for you. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a straightforward experience without too much complexity or strenuous activity.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking scenery of Navajo Sandstone formations and high canyon walls.
• Iconic Landmarks: You’ll see the Glen Canyon Dam, a major feat of engineering.
• Comfortable Experience: The boat includes restrooms and offers water, coffee, and lemonade.
• Short & Sweet: The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, ideal for a relaxed outing.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, making it a more intimate experience.
• Price Consideration: At just over $118, it’s a premium experience, with additional government fees.

What to Expect from the Navajo Canyon Boat Tour

This tour kicks off at the Lake Powell Resort, where you’re greeted with a mobile ticket that makes check-in straightforward. Once on board your vessel, the first notable sight is the Glen Canyon Dam. Standing at the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S., this structure is not only impressive from a distance but offers a tangible sense of the scale involved in harnessing Lake Powell’s water.

From there, the boat cruises into Navajo Canyon, where the walls rise up to 600 feet above the water. As you glide along, you’ll notice the “desert varnish”, or Navajo Tapestry—this dark, weathered coating on the sandstone adds a touch of color and texture to the towering walls. Many travelers comment on how photogenic the canyon is, especially with the vibrant reds and burnt oranges of the Navajo Sandstone, which seem to glow in the right light.

The highlight for many is the 50/50 Wall, a dramatic formation towering both above and below the waterline. Its symmetry and scale are hard to grasp until you’re standing there, gazing up or down. It’s a scene that’s perfect for photos and lasting memories.

Throughout the cruise, the crew provides water, coffee, and lemonade, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling parched. There’s a restroom on board, which is definitely a plus on a trip of this length, making it comfortable for all ages.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down Each Stop

Starting Point at Lake Powell Resort
Your experience begins here. It’s a convenient location with easy access, and the check-in process is simple thanks to the mobile ticketing system. The boat departs with a small group—no more than 20 travelers—so you won’t feel crowded, and the crew can give personalized attention.

Glen Canyon Dam
The first stop is the impressive dam, which is worth a moment of awe. It’s a reminder of human ingenuity and the scale of infrastructure that supports this region. Many reviews mention the dam’s size and the view of Lake Powell behind it, providing a striking contrast of natural and man-made marvels.

Navajo Canyon Walls and Desert Varnish
Once inside the canyon, the focus shifts entirely to natural beauty. The canyon walls are 600 feet high, and the desert varnish creates a streaked, tapestry-like effect on the sandstone. Reviewers have described this as “mesmerizing” and “photo-worthy,” especially as the sandstone’s hues shift with the sun.

The 50/50 Wall
This formation is the tour’s centerpiece. Standing next to it, many find the height and symmetry astonishing—it’s one of those things that makes you realize how small you are in this vast landscape.

Return to Marina
After about three and a half hours, the boat smoothly makes its way back to Lake Powell Resort, leaving you with plenty of time to explore other sights or relax.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $118.54 per person, the tour is certainly on the higher end for a half-day boat trip. The additional $30 government fee pushes the total up further. When considering value, think about what you’re getting: a comfortable boat ride, expert narration, and access to views that are difficult to see from land alone.

Traveler reviews suggest that many find the price justifiable given the stunning scenery and the convenience of a guided trip. For those who love photography or simply want to experience the grandeur of Navajo Canyon without strenuous effort, this tour offers a good return on investment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic outing with minimal fuss. It’s suited for those interested in natural formations, big landscapes, and iconic dams. The limited group size makes it a good choice if you’re after a more intimate atmosphere, and the inclusion of water and snacks adds to the comfort.

It’s also a practical option for visitors who prefer the ease of a guided boat trip rather than navigating the lake on their own. If you’re traveling with older adults or those who may appreciate a more leisurely pace, this could fit well.

Final Thoughts

The Navajo Canyon Boat Tour offers a chance to see some of the most impressive elements of Lake Powell’s landscape from a comfortable vantage point. The combination of the Glen Canyon Dam and the towering Navajo Sandstone formations provides a visually rich experience that many will find memorable.

While it’s priced higher than some other activities, the views and ease of access might make it worth considering, especially if you’re keen on photography or simply soaking in the scenery without a lot of walking or strenuous activity. The tour’s small group size, friendly service, and scenic highlights create a laid-back yet awe-inspiring outing.

If you love dramatic canyon walls and striking geological features, this cruise is a solid pick. For travelers who prefer more active adventures or have a tight budget, there might be other options, but for a relaxed, visually stunning experience, it hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the Navajo Canyon Boat Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, a restroom on board, water, coffee, and lemonade during the trip.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Lake Powell Resort, located at 100 Lakeshore Dr, Page, AZ.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there is a $30 government fee per booking that you need to budget for.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s generally suitable for all ages, especially since it’s a relaxed boat cruise.

What about weather considerations?
The experience depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I see other famous sites nearby?
Yes, there are other tours like walking or hiking trips to Antelope Canyon, but this one focuses specifically on Navajo Canyon and the dam.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring sun protection, a camera, and a hat if you want to capture the scenery. The boat provides water and snacks, so no need to bring your own unless you want extras.

If this kind of scenic, laid-back adventure appeals to you, the Navajo Canyon Boat Tour makes a compelling choice. It balances comfort, stunning views, and a touch of engineering marvel, perfect for those wanting a memorable Lake Powell experience.