2 Hour Salt Lake Boat Tour with Swimming on the Lake

Salt Lake’s Hidden Gem: A 2-Hour Boat Tour with Swimming

When visiting Salt Lake City, a trip to Utah’s Great Salt Lake is a must, especially if you want to see something truly different. This 2-hour boat tour takes you out onto the lake aboard a cozy pontoon, with stops for swimming and floating in the lake’s famously salty waters. For $81 per person, this guided experience offers a blend of scenic views, educational stories, and pure fun that’s hard to beat.

What makes this experience stand out is the small group size, which means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide, and the opportunity to float effortlessly—something you’ll remember long after your trip. Plus, with light snacks and bottled water included, it’s a comfortable, easy way to enjoy the lake without fuss.

A consideration to keep in mind is the potential for bugs near the shoreline at the start, which is easily managed with provided bee-keeper style hats. Also, it’s best to bring your swimsuit, towel, and sun protection — and avoid shaving any body parts before the trip to prevent stinging when in the salty water. This trip is perfect for families, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, memorable, outdoor experience.

If you’re intrigued by unique natural wonders or want to experience what it feels like to float weightlessly in a sea of salt, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Unique floating experience in the world’s largest saltwater lake
• Personalized attention with small groups of up to 9 people
• Educational stories about the lake’s history and environment
• Comfortable amenities including spa pillows and refreshments
• Two swimming stops to enjoy the buoyant waters firsthand
• Ideal for families, curious explorers, and outdoor lovers

Exploring Utah’s Great Salt Lake: A Comprehensive Review

An inviting introduction to an extraordinary natural site

Our trip begins at the Great Salt Lake State Park in Magna, Utah, where a small group of eager travelers gathers. The boat, a sturdy pontoon, looks inviting and well-suited for a relaxed cruise. As we step aboard, our guide, Devin, introduces himself with a friendly smile and a confident knowledge of the lake’s quirks and history.

For just $81 per person, we’re getting a lot more than a boat ride—we’re immersing ourselves in a worldly phenomenon. We loved the way the guide kept the tone light and fun, peppering the narrative with salty jokes and interesting facts. The small group size means no one’s left out, and there’s plenty of opportunity to ask questions or snap photos.

What to expect on the route and stops

After boarding, we cruise out across the lake, getting our first panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and vast expanse of salt flats. The two stops are thoughtfully planned to maximize the experience: one in deeper water for floating and swimming, and another in shallower areas for walking and exploring.

Floating in the lake is astonishing—our reviews echo how surreal and enjoyable it is. One traveler sums it up: “Unbelievable how buoyant you are in this body of water. You really do just float.” The salty water creates an almost effortless float, giving you that feeling of weightlessness. The spa pillows onboard offer a chance to recline and relax while soaking in the scenery or just feeling totally weightless.

The safety and comfort elements

The tour provides bottled water and light snacks, perfect for staying refreshed during the outing. Buckets of fresh water are available to rinse off the salt after swimming, and full showers at the marina make post-ride cleanup simple.

The potential for bugs at the shoreline before departure is well-addressed with the provided bee-keeper style hats, which keep pesky insects away from your face. Once out on the lake, the bugs are noticeably gone, and you can enjoy your float in peace. Travelers with sensitive skin or those wary of salt irritation might want to bring extra lotion or sunscreen.

The guides and storytelling

Throughout the trip, your guide will share entertaining stories and insights—some historical, some humorous. We loved hearing about the lake’s origins, ecological importance, and future prospects. One review highlights a guide named Nate, praising his knowledgeable and personable style, which adds a lot of value to the experience.

Reviewers also mention how guides like Tyler and Devin take the time to capture photos of everyone floating or swimming—making it easy to take home memorable snapshots.

The authenticity and value

The $81 price tag covers about two hours of guided adventure, including swimming stops, snacks, water, and safety gear. Given the uniqueness and the quality of the experience, this is quite reasonable. Several reviews describe it as a “bucket list” activity and mention how the small group aspect makes it more enjoyable and intimate.

Who will love this experience?

This tour is especially well-suited for families with children, as many reviewers mention how their kids loved floating and driving the boat. It’s also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone curious about the geology and ecology of Utah’s salt flats. Since the tour is about two hours, it’s perfect for travelers with a busy schedule who want a quick but memorable adventure.

Practical tips for travelers

• Bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunblock.
• Consider shaving body parts beforehand to avoid salt stings.
• Arrive a few minutes early at the Great Salt Lake State Park.
• Be prepared for bugs near the shoreline—hats are provided but consider additional insect repellant if needed.
• The maximum group size of 9 ensures more personalized attention, but booking 17 days in advance is recommended.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This Salt Lake boat tour offers a truly distinctive experience—floating effortlessly in one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. It’s a relaxing, educational, and fun outing that doesn’t require much physical effort but delivers plenty of memorable moments.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the journey richer, and the small group size means more opportunity to engage and ask questions. The inclusion of snacks, water, and photo opportunities adds to the overall value, turning a simple boat ride into a cherished adventure.

If you’re after a unique, family-friendly activity that combines natural wonder with a touch of humor and learning, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially perfect for those seeking a light, relaxed way to experience Utah’s otherworldly lake.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including two stops for swimming and floating.

What is included in the price?
Bottled water and light snacks are provided, along with safety gear like spa pillows. Full showers are available at the marina afterward.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children having a great time floating and even driving the boat. It’s ideal for families.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunblock, and possibly a hat for insect protection. Shaving body parts beforehand is recommended to avoid salt stings.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Refunds are processed if canceled in time.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Great Salt Lake State Park, 13312 W 1075 S, Magna, UT.

How many people are on each tour?
A maximum of 9 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, though very young children should be supervised closely, especially around water.

Are guide tips included?
Tips are optional but appreciated for guides like Devin, Tyler, or Nate who make the trip special.

What is the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Salt Lake Lake tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, educational storytelling, and floating fun. You’ll love the sense of weightlessness in one of the most unusual bodies of water on Earth, and the small group setting ensures a relaxed, engaging experience. Guides like Devin and Tyler add a layer of authenticity and humor that make the trip memorable.

For families, curious travelers, or those wanting a quick yet meaningful adventure, this tour provides excellent value for the price. The inclusion of snacks, photo opportunities, and personalized attention makes it a worthwhile splurge.

While it’s a short tour, the lasting impressions of floating in the salty lake and learning about its fascinating environment will stay with you. If you’re visiting Salt Lake City and want to experience something truly unique, this boat trip is a straightforward, enjoyable choice.

In summary, the 2-hour Great Salt Lake boat tour offers an accessible, fun, and educational perspective on Utah’s natural wonder. Whether you’re floating in the lake’s buoyant waters or listening to engaging stories, this experience highlights the best of Utah’s outdoor treasures — perfect for travelers craving authentic adventure and a splash of saltwater fun.