Wahweap is a fantastic base for exploring Lake Powell and the surrounding landscapes. Its prime location along the Colorado River offers easy access to some of the most spectacular water-based adventures in the southwestern United States. Of the many options, we especially like the Navajo Canyon Scenic Cruise for its stunning scenery and comprehensive experience, and the Glen Canyon Dam cruise for a shorter, more relaxed view of this engineering marvel. These tours showcase the region’s natural beauty and impressive geology, making them perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights without strenuous activity.
If you’re after a more comprehensive look at Lake Powell and its geological features, the cruise of Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon offers a blend of scenic vistas and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re interested in towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, or the mighty Glen Canyon Dam, Wahweap’s boat tours deliver memorable views and insights. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated tour to help you choose the perfect water adventure.
1. Lake Powell Navajo Canyon Scenic Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the Lake Powell Navajo Canyon Scenic Cruise, which costs around $119 per person and lasts about three hours. This tour stands out because it combines a peaceful cruise with jaw-dropping views of Navajo Canyon’s 600-foot-high walls and vibrant Navajo Sandstone formations. You’ll get an up-close look at the Glen Canyon Dam, which is the second-largest in the U.S., providing context to the engineering marvel that controls the flow of Lake Powell.
During the cruise, you’ll relax on a spacious boat as you traverse Lake Powell, passing through the narrow Navajo Canyon with its desert varnish and deep red-orange rocks. The included drinks—such as water, soft drinks, and possibly some alcoholic options—make for a comfortable outing. Reviewers rate this tour 4.3 out of 5, praising the stunning scenery and informative narration. Many say it’s a “great way to see the canyon walls and learn about the dam’s construction,” with some noting that the crew’s friendly attitude adds to the experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and educational insight, making it ideal for those wanting to see the iconic Navajo Sandstone up close and learn about Glen Canyon’s history.
2. Lake Powell Scenic Dam Cruise
Second on our list is the Lake Powell Scenic Dam Cruise, priced at about $112 for 1.5 hours. This shorter cruise provides a relaxed yet impressive view of the Glen Canyon Dam, which is the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S. Its shorter duration makes it a good choice for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a laid-back water journey.
You’ll cruise through Wahweap Bay, soaking in scenic views of the surrounding cliffs and the dam itself, which dominates the landscape with its massive structure. The narrative onboard offers insights into the dam’s construction and purpose, enhancing your appreciation of this feat of engineering. The tour’s reviews, averaging 3.8 out of 5 from 28 visitors, highlight its value for money and tranquil setting, with many praising the complimentary water, coffee, and lemonade that keep everyone refreshed.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, informative, and tranquil cruise that focuses solely on the dam and Wahweap Bay, this tour hits the mark.
$112 per person
3. Boat Tour of Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon
Finally, the Boat Tour of Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon offers a 1.5-hour journey through some of the most iconic landscapes around Wahweap. For about $119 per person, you’ll see Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, and the towering Navajo Sandstone Cliffs—a real feast for the eyes. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a broad overview of the area’s geological and natural features in a relatively short time.
The boat cruises through Wahweap Bay and offers views of the narrowing Antelope Canyon, famous for its photogenic slot canyons and swirling light beams. The included drinks—water, lemonade, or coffee—add comfort during the trip, and the reviews (3.8 out of 5 from 18 reviews) note the stunning scenery and the opportunity to learn about the dam and canyon formations firsthand. Many visitors appreciate the “breathtaking sights” and find the experience a good value given the variety of landscapes covered.
Bottom Line: This tour balances scenic beauty and geological interest, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a quick yet diverse experience.
$119 per person
How to Choose Your Wahweap Boat Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your specific interests and schedule. If you’re eager to explore Navajo Canyon in depth, the Navajo Canyon Scenic Cruise offers a longer, more immersive experience. For a quick overview of Glen Canyon Dam, the Scenic Dam Cruise is perfect. And if you want a bit of everything—dams, canyons, and the stunning scenery of Antelope—you can’t beat the Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon Tour.
Think about your time constraints, budget, and what scenery excites you most. All tours are best booked in advance, especially in peak season (spring through fall), to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Wahweap’s boat tours offer a variety of ways to appreciate the region’s striking geology and impressive engineering. The Navajo Canyon Scenic Cruise is ideal for those who want a deep dive into Navajo Canyon’s towering walls. The Glen Canyon Dam cruise suits travelers seeking a quick, relaxing overview of the dam. And the Lake Powell, Antelope, and Glen Canyon Tour offers a bit of everything for a comprehensive look at the region’s most photogenic features.
Booking early is recommended—these tours fill fast, especially during peak times. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a full-day adventure, Wahweap’s boat tours make an excellent addition to your Lake Powell trip.