Embark on an unforgettable voyage across the stunning Lake Mead aboard the Desert Princess, a Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler. This 90-minute midday sightseeing cruise offers a captivating exploration of the iconic Hoover Dam and its surrounding landmarks. As you glide along the tranquil waters, learn about the rich engineering history of the region, brought to life through engaging audio narration. Indulge in delectable on-board dining and refreshing drinks while marveling at the breathtaking 360-degree views. This unique experience promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the engineering marvel that is the Hoover Dam. Discover why this cruise is a must-do for visitors…
Key Points
- The 90-minute midday excursion on Lake Mead offers stunning views of Hoover Dam and other landmarks, starting from €38.67 per person.
- The cruise is conducted on an authentic 3-level Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler, the Desert Princess, which provides 360-degree views from the open-air observation deck.
- The sightseeing experience includes historical narration highlighting the significance of landmarks like Hoover Dam, Memorial Bridge, and Fortification Hill.
- Onboard amenities include a grill, full bar, and a selection of classic American dishes and refreshments.
- The cruise accommodates wheelchair users, enforces a smoke-free policy, and requires a National Park fee for entry.
Pricing and Reservation
The Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise offers an affordable 90-minute midday excursion on Lake Mead, with prices starting from €38.67 per person.
Guests can reserve their spot online and take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This cruise is an excellent value, allowing visitors to soak in the stunning vistas of the Hoover Dam, the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, and other iconic landmarks, all from the comfort of an authentic Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely afternoon or a unique way to explore the area, this cruise is a must-do activity during your visit to the Hoover Dam region.
Vessel and Viewing Experience
Aboard the authentic 3-level Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler, Desert Princess, guests can enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air observation deck or relax in the enclosed decks with picture windows and air-conditioning.
This impressive vessel offers an unparalleled sightseeing experience on Lake Mead. As the boat glides across the serene waters, passengers will witness the awe-inspiring Hoover Dam, the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, Fortification Hill, and the stunning Arizona Paint Pots.
The narration provides fascinating historical insights, enhancing the journey. With its comfortable amenities and breathtaking vistas, the Desert Princess delivers an unforgettable Lake Mead adventure.
Historical Landmarks Observed
What captivating landmarks do guests witness during the Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise? As the Desert Princess glides across the tranquil waters of Lake Mead, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Hoover Dam, the majestic Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the rugged Fortification Hill, and the vibrant Arizona Paint Pots. These historical landmarks offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich geological and engineering heritage, captivating guests with their sheer scale and natural beauty. From the open-air observation deck or the comfort of the enclosed cabins, passengers can enjoy the captivating scenery and learn about the fascinating history behind these impressive sights.
| Landmark | Description |
|---|---|
| Hoover Dam | An engineering marvel, the Hoover Dam impounds the Colorado River, forming the vast Lake Mead. |
| Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge | This striking bridge spans the Colorado River, offering breathtaking views of the Hoover Dam. |
| Fortification Hill | A towering geological formation, Fortification Hill provides a dramatic backdrop to the cruise. |
| Arizona Paint Pots | These colorful mineral deposits showcase the region’s diverse and vibrant natural landscapes. |
| Lake Mead | The serene waters of Lake Mead provide the perfect setting for this unforgettable sightseeing experience. |
Audio Narration
Passengers aboard the Desert Princess are treated to a pre-recorded narration that brings the history of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam to life, enriching their sightseeing experience.
As the paddle-wheeler cruises across the vast expanse of Lake Mead, a captivating voice guides guests through the region’s fascinating past. The narration covers the construction of the iconic Hoover Dam, the formation of the lake, and the significance of key landmarks such as the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
With the stunning natural scenery unfolding before them, passengers can enjoy the rich history and engineering marvels that define this iconic American landscape. The informative narration adds an extra layer of depth and appreciation to the cruise.
Onboard Dining and Drinks
Hoover Dam: 90-Minute Midday Sightseeing Cruise
The Desert Princess’s onboard grill and full bar offer a tempting array of refreshments and fare, catering to passengers’ culinary and thirst-quenching needs during the cruise. The menu includes classic American favorites like sandwiches, salads, and nachos, as well as a selection of cocktails, wines, and beers. Whether you’re craving a refreshing beverage or a tasty bite to eat, the onboard offerings are sure to hit the spot.
| Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Cheeseburger | $12.99 |
| Chicken Caesar Salad | $10.99 |
| Nachos | $8.99 |
| Draft Beer | $6.50 |
With stunning views of Hoover Dam and the surrounding landscape, the midday cruise is the perfect time to sit back, relax, and indulge in a delicious meal or refreshing drink.
Accessibility and Policies
The Desert Princess cruise is designed to be accessible for all passengers, with wheelchair-friendly accommodations and a smoke-free policy in enclosed areas.
Guests can embark on the journey with peace of mind, as personal items are subject to a security search, and certain restrictions apply to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone on board.
Visitors are welcome to bring their passport or ID card, but weapons, sharp objects, food, drinks, drones, and personal coolers aren’t permitted.
The crew takes pride in providing a welcoming and inclusive experience, catering to the needs of each guest.
With these thoughtful policies in place, passengers can focus on soaking up the stunning 360-degree views and learning about the rich history of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam.
Arrival and Entry Fees
Arriving at the departure point 30 minutes prior to the cruise’s start time allows ample time for check-in and boarding, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Upon entrance, visitors must pay the National Park fee of $25 for a car with up to 6 passengers, granting access to the park and its breathtaking attractions for the next 7 days. This fee provides an excellent value, as it allows guests to explore the stunning landscapes and landmarks of the area beyond just the sightseeing cruise.
With the formalities taken care of, passengers can look forward to an unforgettable journey on the waters of Lake Mead, ready to enjoy the natural wonders that await.
Customer Feedback
According to the reviews, customers have provided a mixed assessment of the Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise, with an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 based on 18 reviews.
While some praised the crew’s professionalism and the air-conditioning during extreme heat, others expressed concerns about the transportation and perceived value for money.
The transportation rating of 2.8 out of 5 suggests there may have been issues with the reliability or comfort of the shuttle service.
Similarly, the value for money rating of 2.8 out of 5 implies that some customers felt the cruise didn’t fully meet their expectations given the cost.
Despite these mixed reviews, the cruise appears to offer a unique and scenic way to experience the iconic Hoover Dam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seasickness a Concern on the Cruise?
Seasickness is generally not a concern on this cruise, as Lake Mead is a calm, inland lake. The stable paddle-wheeler vessel provides a smooth, gentle ride, ensuring passengers can comfortably enjoy the stunning 360-degree views without worrying about motion sickness.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?
According to the details provided, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks onboard. However, a full bar and grill are available for purchasing snacks, meals, and beverages during the cruise.
Are There Any Special Discounts or Packages Available?
While no special discounts or packages are explicitly mentioned, customers can enjoy flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The cruise’s reasonable pricing and value for money make it an appealing option for sightseeing on Lake Mead.
How Often Do the Cruises Run Throughout the Day?
The Lake Mead cruises run several times throughout the day, typically departing every 90-120 minutes. Guests can enjoy the scenic views and onboard amenities at their convenience during this popular sightseeing experience.
Can I Disembark and Re-Board the Cruise During the Trip?
Unfortunately, passengers cannot disembark and re-board the cruise during the 90-minute trip. The cruise operates continuously without any opportunities to get off and back on. Passengers must remain on the boat for the full duration of the sightseeing experience.
Recap
The Hoover Dam 90-minute midday sightseeing cruise offers an unparalleled experience.
Passengers will be captivated by the stunning 360-degree views, immersed in the rich engineering history, and delighted by the onboard dining and refreshments.
Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this cruise is a must-do activity that combines breathtaking scenery with fascinating insights, making it an unforgettable highlight of any trip to the region.
