Las Vegas may be famous for its bright lights and bustling casinos, but it also offers some surprisingly memorable boat tours. Whether you want to cruise the sparkling waters of Lake Mead, see the Hoover Dam from the water, or take an iconic gondola ride at The Venetian, there’s an aquatic adventure for every traveler. We particularly like the Lake Mead Private Tour for its exclusivity and comfort, and the Grand Canyon Helicopter & Boat Tours for their breathtaking views and thrill factor. These experiences turn a usual Vegas vacation into something truly special—and they’re worth planning ahead for.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of boat-related experiences. From easy-paced Lake Mead boat rentals (see more) to adrenaline-pumping Grand Canyon helicopter rides (details here), you’ll find options suited for different interests and budgets. Want a quick cruise on Lake Mead? Or perhaps a full-day helicopter, boat, and Skywalk adventure? Keep reading for a detailed look at each of the seven best boat tours and cruises in Las Vegas.
1. Las Vegas: Entry to Madame Tussauds with a Gondola Cruise
At number 1, the combo Las Vegas: Entry to Madame Tussauds with a Gondola Cruise offers a compact taste of Las Vegas glamour. For just $69 per person, you get a chance to mingle with wax celebrities at Madame Tussauds and enjoy a serene outdoor gondola ride at The Venetian. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, fun way to experience some of Vegas’ most iconic attractions in one day. Reviews show a solid 4.3/5 from nearly 1,000 travelers, emphasizing the interactive wax figures and the romantic gondola experience. The gondola ride, complete with singing gondoliers, is the highlight and captures the essence of Venice right in Vegas. And, if you’re curious about the city’s secret nightlife, the Speakeasy Experience adds a fun twist, making this a well-rounded, affordable day out.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a lively, photogenic experience that combines pop culture with a taste of European romance without breaking the bank.
2. Vegas: Grand Canyon Airplane, Helicopter and Boat Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Vegas: Grand Canyon Airplane, Helicopter and Boat Tour. At around $579, this 7-hour adventure ranks high for its stunning aerial views and comprehensive experience. You start with a plane flight over Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Colorado River, then land at the canyon’s bottom for a scenic boat ride. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of sightseeing with a mix of flying, river cruising, and exploring the canyon’s depths. The guided rim tour and self-guided shuttle give you some flexibility, and reviews emphasize the “amazing views” and the professionalism of the staff, with a 4.8/5 rating from 120 reviews.
The experience stands out for its combination of aerial, ground, and water elements, giving a well-rounded perspective of the Grand Canyon. The boat ride on the Colorado River offers a peaceful contrast to the helicopter flight, making it more than just a quick view.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers with a full day to spare who want to see the canyon from every angle, especially if they value comprehensive, high-quality experiences.
3. Las Vegas: Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride, Boat Tour & Skywalk
Number 3 is the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride, Boat Tour & Skywalk, priced at about $839 per person. It’s a premium option that includes everything: a helicopter flight to Grand Canyon West, a landing on the canyon floor, a 15-minute boat cruise on the Colorado River, and a chance to walk on the famous Skywalk. This tour is ideal for those seeking the ultimate canyon experience—adventurous, scenic, and full of iconic sights.
Guests rave about the “gorgeous scenery” and the “professional staff,” noting the amazing bird’s-eye views of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam during the helicopter ride. The Skywalk offers a unique perspective 4,000 feet above the canyon floor, making it a must-do for thrill-seekers. The included river cruise provides a tranquil moment amid the grandeur, and the entire experience spans roughly 4-7 hours.
Bottom line: This is perfect for travelers who want a complete, luxurious, and unforgettable Grand Canyon trip with plenty of photo opportunities and adrenaline.
4. Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour with VIP Skywalk and Boat Ride
Number 4, the Grand Canyon West Helicopter Tour with VIP Skywalk and Boat Ride, offers a full-sensory experience for about $839. This tour starts with a scenic helicopter flight over Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa before descending into the canyon for a pontoon boat cruise. It’s then topped off with VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass platform suspended 4,000 feet above the canyon.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless combination of aerial views, river tranquility, and exclusive Skywalk access. The coach transfers and souvenir photos add convenience and keepsakes. Many reviews note the “breathtaking” views and the professional, helpful staff. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one experience with VIP treatment. The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a full-day affair.
Bottom line: If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a premium, all-inclusive experience that combines multiple viewpoints, this is your best choice.
5. Lake Mead Private Tour by Boat
Number 5 is the Lake Mead Private Tour by Boat, which offers a charming, private experience for a more relaxed day. At $285 per person, it lasts about 2.5 hours and includes luxury amenities like beach chairs, a canopy for shade, and a large floating area ideal for families and children. The focus is on unwinding in a beautiful, secluded part of Lake Mead, away from the crowds.
What makes this tour special is the personalized nature — you can enjoy soft sands, swim, or just relax aboard the Sun Dancer 280. Reviewers compliment the impeccable condition of the boat and the expert captain. It’s best suited for those seeking a peaceful escape, a family outing, or a romantic afternoon.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want an exclusive, comfortable day on Lake Mead with plenty of space for relaxation. It’s excellent value for such a high-end, customized experience.
6. Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Mead
Number 6, the Hoover Dam Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Mead, offers a shorter, more affordable way to see the dam and surroundings. For about $52, the 90-minute narrated cruise departs from Boulder Basin and includes views of Hoover Dam, Black Canyon, and Lake Mead’s scenic waters. It’s a laid-back trip, perfect for those who want a taste of engineering marvels without a long day. Food and drinks are available onboard, adding to the relaxing vibe.
The cruise is praised for its informative narration and beautiful scenery, with a 4.5/5 rating. Reviewers note that it’s a great value and a unique vantage point to appreciate one of America’s iconic structures from the water. This is a good choice if you’re short on time but want a memorable experience.
Bottom line: An economical, informative cruise that gives you a different perspective on Hoover Dam and Lake Mead’s natural beauty.
7. Las Vegas Super Saver: Madame Tussauds with Gondola Boat Ride
Finally, the Las Vegas Super Saver: Madame Tussauds with Gondola Boat Ride combines two top attractions for about $65. It’s a flexible ticket that lets you visit Madame Tussauds and enjoy a Grand Canal gondola ride at The Venetian—either on the same day or spread out. It’s an economical, fun way to experience Vegas’ celebrity culture and a touch of Venice’s romance in one visit.
Guests highlight that the wax figures are full of personality, and the gondola serenades make for memorable photos. The inside gondola ride is a great alternative if outside riding isn’t an option.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive experience of two top attractions with flexibility and good value.
$64.99 per person
How to Choose
When selecting your ideal boat tour or cruise in Vegas, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want a quick and fun intro, the Madame Tussauds & Gondola combo (see here) offers great value. For a full-day adventure with spectacular views and VIP options, the Grand Canyon helicopter and boat tours (details) are hard to beat. If relaxation is your priority, the Lake Mead private tour (check it out) provides comfort and exclusivity.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the helicopter trips, which tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons. Think about what experience excites you most—whether it’s an adrenaline rush, a tranquil cruise, or a mixture of both—and pick a tour that matches your style and schedule.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas’s boat tours range from simple, scenic cruises to all-day extravaganzas filled with helicopter rides, river adventures, and VIP access. For a taste of Venice, the gondola ride at The Venetian is charming and romantic; for a bucket list trip, the helicopter and boat combo over the Grand Canyon is unbeatable. And if you’re just looking for a relaxing day, Lake Mead’s private tour proves that luxury and tranquility are still part of the Vegas experience.
No matter your choice, booking early and knowing what each experience offers will ensure you make the most of your water adventures in Sin City.