Page: Lake Powell Scenic Dam Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to Page, Arizona, and considering a cruise on Lake Powell to see the Glen Canyon Dam, you’ve probably come across this tour. While it might not be the longest or most adrenaline-pumping experience, it offers a peaceful way to appreciate one of the area’s most iconic sights. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and what you can realistically expect, to help you decide if it’s worth your time.

What we like about this cruise is how it combines spectacular views of Wahweap Bay with the chance to get up close to the imposing Glen Canyon Dam—an architectural marvel. Plus, the complement of drinks onboard makes for a refreshing break in your day. On the flip side, some travelers have found the cruise somewhat unremarkable or too long for what they expected. This experience suits those who enjoy laid-back sightseeing and learning a bit about the dam without needing an action-packed adventure.

If you’re seeking a calm, scenic outing with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or listen to a knowledgeable guide, this could be a good fit. However, if you’re after a quick glance or are skeptical about the value of the price, it’s worth considering the pros and cons carefully. Now, let’s take a detailed look at what this tour really entails.

Key Points

• Relaxed 1.5-hour cruise perfect for a gentle overview of Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam.
• Stunning scenery of Wahweap Bay and the dam’s impressive architecture.
• Informative narration that helps you appreciate the significance of the dam.
• Complimentary drinks like water, coffee, and lemonade add a nice touch.
• Limited group size (max 6), giving a more personalized experience.
• Additional fee for Glen Canyon Park ($30), not included in the ticket price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Lake Powell Scenic Dam Cruise?

This cruise is a gentle boat ride that takes you through Wahweap Bay to gaze upon the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S.—the Glen Canyon Dam. With a duration of about 1.5 hours, it’s designed as a relaxing way to see one of the area’s most famous landmarks from the water, with plenty of time for photos and quiet contemplation.

The tour is operated by Aramark Destinations at Lake Powell, and it’s primarily aimed at travelers who want a calm, informative experience rather than an active adventure. It’s wheelchair accessible and limited to just 6 participants to keep things intimate.

What You Can Expect During the Cruise

A Scenic Ride on Wahweap Bay

Once aboard, you’ll start your journey in Wahweap Bay, a broad stretch of water that showcases the expansive beauty of Lake Powell. The bay’s peaceful waters and panoramic views make for some beautiful photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear. Expect to see striking rock formations, towering cliffs, and the shimmering surface of the lake as you cruise.

Approaching the Glen Canyon Dam

As you draw closer to the dam, the size and engineering marvel of this structure become more apparent. It’s the centerpiece of the cruise—and a real highlight. It’s hard not to be impressed by its scale and the way it dominates the landscape. The guide will share some insights about its construction and purpose, adding context to what you’re seeing.

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Onboard Experience

The vessel is clean and comfortable, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Passengers have the option to sit or stand on the top deck for the best views, which many reviews praise as a nice touch. The onboard narration is a key feature—expected to be informative and engaging—helping you understand the significance of the dam and the lake’s natural environment.

Refreshments and Comfort

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy complimentary water, coffee, and lemonade, which is a thoughtful detail, especially on warm days. You might find this simple touch enhances the overall experience, making the trip more comfortable and enjoyable.

What Are the Drawbacks or Considerations?

While many find the cruise lovely and peaceful, there are some points worth noting. Several reviews mention that the cruise can feel long and unremarkable for those looking for a more dynamic or engaging experience. If you’re expecting to see a lot of action or get very close to the dam, this might not meet those expectations.

A few guests lamented that viewing from above on land might be just as effective, especially since some thought the cruise didn’t offer enough new perspectives. Plus, there is a $30 fee for Glen Canyon Park, which is not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit the park separately.

Another practical aspect is timing—the cruise lasts about 2 hours, but water levels and weather conditions can extend this slightly. Also, you need to arrive 45 minutes early at Lake Powell Resorts for check-in, so plan your timing accordingly.

How Does the Pricing Stack Up?

At $112 per person, this cruise isn’t exactly cheap—especially considering it’s a 1.5-hour tour. However, many would argue that the price is fair when you factor in the guided narration, the exclusivity of a small group, and the scenery. The complimentary drinks are a bonus, but the additional fee for the park might make some travelers think twice about whether they want to include the park visit afterward.

If you’re someone who enjoys a leisurely sightseeing experience with some educational content, the price provides a comfortable value. But if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more active or interactive experiences, you might want to compare this to other Lake Powell outings or sightseeing options.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals to travelers who appreciate relaxing boat rides and scenic views over adrenaline or extensive exploration. It’s ideal if you want a taste of Lake Powell’s beauty without committing to a full-day tour. History buffs or architecture enthusiasts will enjoy the focus on the dam’s engineering.

It’s also suitable for small groups who prefer a personalized experience, and those who appreciate easy access and comfort. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a mellow activity or you’re looking for a peaceful way to see the dam from the water, this could be a good choice.

However, if you’re after a more interactive or physically engaging experience, or if you find long rides uninteresting, other options might be better.

Final Thoughts

The Lake Powell Scenic Dam Cruise offers a calm, scenic, and educational outing that highlights one of the Southwest’s most impressive engineering feats. For $112, you’re paying for an intimate, guided experience that’s well-suited for those who love peaceful water vistas and straightforward sightseeing.

Most travelers praise the beautiful views, friendly guide, and refreshing drinks, making it a nice, low-key addition to your itinerary. On the other hand, some feel the cruise could be a bit longer or more engaging for the price.

In the end, this experience is best for those who enjoy quiet, scenic rides with a touch of history and architecture, rather than high-energy adventures. It’s a good pick if you’re looking for a relaxing way to see Glen Canyon Dam and want a small-group vibe.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, although the total activity time, including check-in, may be closer to two hours.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise itself and complimentary water, coffee, and lemonade onboard.

Is there an extra fee I should know about?
Yes, the Glen Canyon Park fee of $30 is not included in the ticket price and must be paid separately if you plan to visit the park.

When should I arrive?
You should arrive at the Lake Powell Resorts lobby 45 minutes before departure to check in, with boarding starting 15 minutes prior.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, as there is no food available for purchase onboard.

Is the cruise accessible?
Yes, the tour is ADA accessible, and the vessel can accommodate wheelchairs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

What time does the cruise run?
Typically, the cruise is available in the morning and afternoon, but check specific schedules at booking.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the cruise’s relaxed nature and small size make it generally suitable for all ages, but keep in mind it’s a quiet, scenic ride.

Would I recommend this experience?
If you appreciate peaceful water views, a personalized guide, and want a relaxing way to see the dam, then yes. It’s a straightforward, pleasant outing that won’t disappoint if expectations are realistic.

In summary, the Lake Powell Scenic Dam Cruise provides a peaceful, educational glimpse of a major engineering landmark within a stunning natural setting. Perfect for travelers who value comfort, scenic views, and a touch of history without the fuss of larger tours. If you’re after a calm day on the water with good company, this might just be your ideal choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: