Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Required fields are marked *. The sunset and waterfall views also look awesome. "The captain was very informative and answered everyone's questions, including what kinds of fish ." more. Walking through the desert and learning about the different cacti. Look out for wildlife like long horn sheep and eagles along the way. Copy, reproduction or use of text or images is not permitted without written permission from the author or photographer. The Dolly Steamboat, Tortilla Flat Dolly is a steamboat that sails the Canyon Lake in the heart of Superstition Mountains. Tour Boat near Mesa, AZ. Would thoroughly recommend! Both are very pleasant scenic boat rides. Get Deal. Visits to their kids homes in Anchorage, Boise, and Denver (his) and in San Francisco, Calgary, and Melbourne (hers) allow for exploring the U.S., Canada, and Australia. From hiking in Sedona, encountering bears in Bearizona, to cruising on Canyon Lake, Teal Wheel Tours provides 1stmore, We provide Off Road Tours through the Wilds of Arizona. We were appropriately dressed but we preferred to sit on the beautiful expansive patio that leads right into the wide, well-manicured grass lawn in a huge garden that looks out to the red rocks unobstructed. Since then, Jeff and Cindi have been running operations with the crew they've hired. Web enjoy an 80 minute cruise describing the history, geology, geography and wildlife native to the sonoran desert . AZ Great Adventure Fishing. A group of kids in front of us eagerly waited for Dolly to come in from her last excursion. var cid = []; RV Keyless Entry Door Lock Problems? " Disgusted " 03/07/2022. This simple little boat ride is a definite must do if you like the desert and want a scenic outing. Astronomy Cruise is once a month. The Dolly Steamboat was better than expected, great views. Experience the magnificence of both desert beauty and natural wildlife of one of the Valley's hidden treasures . Enjoy 90 Minute Narrated Cruises or Live Music Cruises aboard The Desert Belle Tour Boat on Saguaro Lake in Mesa, AZ. The Desert Belle is a unique way to enjoy all the beauty that Arizona has to offer. On this cruise you will see towering canyon walls, dramatic desert vistas and desert wildlife. Today, the Wrigley Mansion is a premier fine dining and special event venue. the Dolly Steamboat: No consideration for guests - See 1,477 traveller reviews, 849 candid photos, and great deals for Tortilla Flat, AZ, at Tripadvisor. Relax in air-conditioned comfort on one of her 80 minute narrated cruises and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls and dramatic desert vistas. Bald eagles, desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, deer, and bobcats are all known to make Saguaro Lake their home. Listen as your captain recounts the legends and lore of the mysterious Superstition Mountains. Dolly Steamboat and Apache Trail tour from Phoenix area, Take a 90-minute guided cruise through a slot canyon on an old-fashioned steamboat, Look out for wildlife like long horn sheep and eagles along the way, Ride a van through the Sonora Desert, a rare desert environment found in the American Southwest and Mexico, Lunch in the historic mining town of Tortilla Flat, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Stretch 15 passenger vans with maximum 10 per van, Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, Children 6 years and under are required to ride in a car seat that the guest must provide, Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately, Hotel pickup and drop-off is offered for most hotels/resorts in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, plus in Mesa at the Mesa Hilton. The explanation about the canals and water was very interesting. var defaultParams = {"vid":"tou"}; This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers. During this one-and-a-half-hour, six-mile cruise, you may see desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other animals and local wildlife viewed from the decks of the Dolly! Rent a pontoon boat, or take a relaxing Desert Belle tour boat ride around the lake, then eat at the ShipRock Restaurant. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground rents watercraft and equipment everything from pontoons and runabouts to canoes, kayaks and water skis. Both sit atop hills, commanding dramatic views of the mountains and the city (or island). He liked to show us how fast he could zip between the legs of our tripods. I really enjoyed this post. Welcome to our siteand enjoy!! I agree. Hes been getting lots of hugs and love from a whole host of beautiful young girls and he doesnt seem to mind one bit that he now smells like a 13 year old girl. At the marina, you can rent a runabout, fishing or pontoon boat, or take a 90-minute guided tour on a double-decker paddleboat, the Desert Belle. There is so much to do at Saguaro Lake! Enjoyed it! Pro Tip: They have added an Astronomy Cruise Dinner that starts at 6:30 p.m. We discovered an Arizona dining experience I will never forget when we were invited to have lunch by an Australian friend. Nestled in the heart of the Superstition Mountains lie spectacular Canyon Lake, home of the Dolly Steamboat. 37,518 posts, read 47,846,144 times Reputation: 26227. 51 helpful votes Dolly steamboat or Desert belle? Kids wait for the Dolly Steamboat to arrive at the dock. 3. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Click here for directions and maps of Saguaro Lake and the area. Our newsletter is sent out quarterly to provide things to do for each season! A very pleasant way to see the sites. Eric was good guide, helpful and informative. Canyon Lake is a beautiful big, blue lake in the middle of the desert, and we had been getting lots of photos of it from the shore as we drove up and down the Apache Trail. All this beauty inspired us to have an anniversary photoshoot. Dolly Steamboat & Saguaro Lake Ranch: January 26: Allied Tours: Verde Canyon & Grand Canyon Railraods: February 2-3: Free Spirit Vacations: Dolly Steamboat: February 8 . While we were camped in our RV on Canyon Lake, our new puppy Buddy loved going down on the beach, especially during our early morning photo sessions. Very interesting and the staff was very friendly. We have been on the Dolly steamboat twice. Years ago we rode on the Desert Belle on Saguaro Lake and absolutely loved it. It didnt matter, though, the scenery was so stunning. Thanks for the additional excursion idea for the area and knowing that dogs can take the river cruise is a bonus. --Emily & Mark Fagan, traveling by land and sea since 2007. Not sure if that one is still available. Alternatively, you may use, Apache Junction Hotels and Places to Stay. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Thanks! From this base, they embark on great road trips to meet family at reunions in picturesque resorts around the U.S. It was only approx an hour drive from Phoenix and well worth it. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. The pics are really nice, as usual. Note: The Apache Trail (Route 88 from Apache Junction to the Roosevelt Dam) is one of the most famous and popular scenic drives in central Arizona. Phoenix. Also note that creekside dining may not be available during the winter months. Carol maintains a blog, Carolina: Cruising Past 70, and has published two travel books: Carolina: Cruising to an American Dream about her RVing years and Cruising Past Seventy: It's Not Only About Outer Journeys. There is seating out on deck, and we found a seat at a table to take in the view. Our guide Frank was excellent. I would highly recommend this trip as a way to learn about the beautiful area. View Website. Get Directions After your narrated cruise, visit the small town of Tortilla Flat, taking in views of the rare desert landscape along the way. Tours depart between 8:00 am and 9:00 am and . Stay in the loop and travel with us! They only served hotel guests during COVID times. Hmmmm a boat ride might be pretty fun! Let me know when the beach cruiser booze cruise happens. 280. Great tour and good to get away from the city and to learn more about the areas history and people. Well gosh, hes wriggled his sweet little furry self right into the center of our lives!! Planning a boat ride along with visits to Lost Dutchman SP, Tortilla Flat. Where to See WILDFLOWERS (especially POPPIES) in Arizona 2023! We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. Dolly Steamboat. All you need is. 12,944 were here. 52 reviews. Luckily, they also have a la carte menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that our budget could accommodate. Feel free to ask questions, move about and mingle with the crew. Here's some of the GEAR we use and great IDEAS for you! Finally, she appeared, and we made our way down the dock and onto the boat. Dolly Steamboat. Report inappropriate content 1-7 of 7 replies Sorted by 1 Janss Sedona, AZ Destination Expert for Sedona Level Contributor 3,374 posts 8 reviews 10 helpful votes 1. My husband thought it was good enough for our 11th-anniversary dinner. Janet & Steve. Feel free to ask questions, move about and mingle with the crew. Our tour guide was very helpful and friendly, and the food at tortilla flats was very good. Oh, those beautiful mountains and cactus! My favorite is the steamboat - Desert Belle which plies around Saguaro Lake sounds perfect. Well worth the money for this tour, the views alone are breathtaking! All prices subject to change. As music by Enya played softly over the loudspeaker, we floated past exquisite desert landscapes. We'll be spending a day along Apache trail with 3 little kids (1,3,6)and elderly uncle during our 3 day stay in Mesa. The guide was excellent!! Ive been really really good for days. Do you have meal plans or are you taking a picnic? Desert Belle Cruises. Replies. Like you said, the lake seems small but when you get down in it, its much bigger. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. After the Wrigley family sold the mansion in 1973, it changed hands several times, but in 1992, the late Geordie Hormel and his wife Jamie bought the property and lovingly restored it. And the seafood menu was indeed outstanding. Continuing a tradition of cruising since 1925, the Dolly Steamboat now cruises the secluded inner waterways of this beautiful lake. One such cruise is the Desert Belle that plies around Saguaro Lake. Waterton Shoreline Cruise A Classy Tour of Waterton-Glacier NP. var cidParams = []; It was a great tour we would do it again. Im so happy to know Buddy is making you smile. Sweet Days at Roosevelt Lake, Arizona. The food on the windstar was incredible. Executive Chef Christopher Gross leads a strong culinary team, and CEO and Sommelier Paola Embry directs the wine program that consistently wins prestigious wine awards. When we settled in Arizona after our many years on the road, the food scene did not disappoint. Beat the heat on our climate controlled lower and upper decks. She has a BS in math, MBA, and DPA. The Dolly Steamboat is a family run business that provides outstanding cruise experiences on Canyon Lake in Arizona. This offer will be removed in 60s. Boat Charters Boat Tours Travel Services. I enjoyed both equally. var pl = document.createElement('script'); Photo credit: Carol Colborn Lakes. Experience the magnificent desert beauty by boat! We enjoyed the wildlife viewing and the short walk at the Lost Dutchman Park for plant viewing. . Continuing a tradition of cruising since 1925, the Dolly Steamboat now cruises the secluded inner waterways of this beautiful lake. Best Western Gold Canyon Inn & Suites. Experience the unique ambiance that is created by the sounds of plying through the waters of Canyon Lake. Get Deal. Dead Horse Ranch State Park + Tuzigoot and Clarkdale. With that said, Desert Belle or Dolly Steamboat? 13 mi from Dolly Steamboat. Relax in comfort and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls and dramatic desert vistas. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. We will try the sunset cruise next time! On this6-mile cruise, you may see desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other animals viewed from the decks of the Dolly! Enjoy some of Arizonas finest craft beers while listening to great live music aboard the Desert Belle. Desert Belle Cruises. Both the van driver and boat captain were very interesting narrators. The day was relaxing and the views in Canyon Lake were spectacular! Hop on board the Desert Belle, a restored sightseeing vessel with spectacular views of the desert landscape. You'll be entertained by our captains on the narrated cruises learning about the history, geology, geography and wildlife native to the Sonoran Desert. So join us on the Dolly Steamboat for an unforgettable "mini-Arizona vacation" and see for yourself why there's nothing quite like a ride on Arizona's Dolly Steamboat. The next day we went to stand in line at the Dolly Steamboat dock. Relax in air-conditioned comfort on one of her 80 minute narrated cruises and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls and dramatic desert vistas. It's Also about Inner Ones, is a collection of her most widely-read blog posts and articles. for(key in cidParams) { cid.push(params[cidParams[key]]); }; 9 years ago Save We have been on the Dolly steamboat twice. They do not scrimp on the dessert either, and you can even go for seconds! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. February 2018 - One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona is to take a boat ride on one of the lakes around Phoenix. One of the best tours we took while visiting Phoenix. Before we leave Sedona, let me tell you about the other dining place we consider a must-visit. We were startled at how rugged and dramatic the rock canyons were. Stehekin Ferry Cruise to a Hidden Gem in the North Cascades! The cost was $25.00 for a 90-minute tour. We did the Desert Belle this past Sat. The trip isn't too long, and we were very comfortable the entire time. You are turning around at Tortilla Flats if you're going soon, right? We even saw lambs! Along the way, your captain will recount the legends and lore of the Superstition Mountains. Neither one stands out above the other IMO. Our tour guide was Captain John and he was fantastic. You just cannot go wrong. Depends on what you plan to do with the rest of your day. Desert Belle Cruises Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been cruising the waters of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. They're both 90 minute tours and almost the same distance. Great pics, Em. Pro Tip: Make it a whole day experience at The Buttes. Explore the mysterious Superstition Mountains or cruise Saguaro Lake aboard the Desert Belle and Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat There's no shortage of family fun in Mesa, either, with kid-friendly museums that will entertain the little ones - and your inner child, too! Dolly steamboat or Desert belle? ), http://www.groupon.com/deals/dolly-steamboat-3. Beautiful sightseeing tours. The lake boasts more than 22 miles of shoreline and plenty of on-the-water-fun, including power boating, water skiing, sailing, kayaking and fishing. He hit the jackpot when he ended up with you. However, during COVID lockdowns, Market Cafe in Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes was only open for breakfast from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m., so we decided to begin his 2021 Fathers Day celebration with a special morning meal, even if that meant waking up early. When you descend the antique wooden three flights of stairs to the select tables below, you will be welcomed into a world far removed from the desert. Awesome tip on the Groupon. The rocky canyon is extremely craggy and rugged with saguaro cacti poking up all over the place. Exp:Apr 30, 2023. A steamboat ride definitely seemed like it would be a lot of fun to do together. The Dolly Steamboat has indoor seating down below, as well as snacks and goodies for sale. ), JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, GreenTree Inn & Suites Phoenix Sky Harbor. Curious about the world she missed while stressing out working, she migrated to the U.S., ended up an adjunct professor and small business counselor while babysitting her grandson during the day. more. The restaurant, Cress on Oak Creek, is known for creekside dining since its tables are right beside Oak Creek, where birds chirp while you delight in an exquisite meal. Before I tell you about my other five picks, let me tell you about the fun dinner we had on a steamboat. /* Please do not modify the below code. A tour of fresh fish and seafood from around the world begins with the whole Maine lobster (both 1.5- and 3-pound options), which they reputedly never run out of. pl.src = 'https://beacon.sojern.com/pixel/p/216662?f_v=v6_js&p_v=1&' + paramsArr.join('&'); The Wind Cave Hike in Phoenix AZ The Hills are Alive! The big horned sheep were well represented. All Cruises start from $30. A 3 hour lake cruise to view bighorn sheep at Canyon and with Arizona Game and Fish Biologists and members of Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society. Learned lots & saw lots! 257. But I preferred the scenery in Saguaro Lake. Great job and well done! Rec -Kid-friendly breakfast stop near Target/WalMart (north). Have also done both and equally liked them. View the majestic desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other wildlife, waterfowl, and birds. Fall Color in Arizonas Sonoran Desert near Roosevelt Lake, Arizonas Stunning Apache Trail Scenic Drive, A Majestic Scenic Drive in Arizona The Bush Highway. I also loved the Dolly Steamboat tour of the lake. My sister even said that she enjoyed this tour more than our visit to the Grand Canyon! Carolina Esguerra Colborn April 14, 2022 at 3:44 AM. Frank, our tour guide and the scenery (Big Horned sheep). After the wedding ceremony, they honeymooned for eight years in an RV to 49 states, nine Canadian provinces, and six Mexican states. Thank you!! This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. One such cruise is the Desert Belle that plies around Saguaro Lake. Continuing a tradition of cruising since 1925, the Dolly Steamboat now cruises the secluded inner waterways of this beautiful lake. for(key in params) { paramsArr.push(key + '=' + encodeURIComponent(params[key])) }; My husband was so happy we made it in time to get the lone table for two beside the mini-waterfall. Have also done both and equally liked them. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Taking the Mail Boat Ferry to Maines Cranberry Islands. The Lakeshore Restaurant offers tasty cuisine and . Air conditioned lower and upper cabin during summer months. We are for sure going again . 528. ), http://www.groupon.com/deals/dolly-steamboat-3. Tonto National Monument AZ Workamping with the Ancients! Great for all ages. Click here to email [email protected], Click here to view location 16802 AZ-88, Tortilla Flat, AZ 85117. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Subscribe Ride the old fashioned Dolly Steamboat through the slot canyon at Canyon Lake and then hit the Apache Trail through the Sonora Desert on this tour from the Phoenix area. Restaurant stop was good too, cute place and good food. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground has a big open grassy area thats great for playing fetch. Im a professional in my 50s and my kids are young adults. Saguaro Lake On the Waterfront in Phoenix. 4. Desert Belle Cruises 2019 All Rights Reserved. (It expires on Sept 25. Party & Event Planning. Canyon Lake is a big blue expanse of water in the middle of the desert. PS- Will yall be coming back this way anytime this year? (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); While we were out walking the next morning I was busy snapping pics of our shadows on the ground when we looked up and noticed the Dolly Steamboat moored at the dock. It's geared for college kids. This past week we took a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. We absolutely loved our excursion on the Dolly Steamboat. If we are doing a UYE I say booze cruise (chartered of course since majority rules), The cruise to ensenada from long beach is just a booze cruise. Your specific hotel may not be in the pick up route on a particular day. How does the Desert Belle compare? We have come to define a good dining experience as something unique, not just because of the food but also because of the place. Was informative and interesting A Savory Creekside Sunday Brunch is also popular with special beverages like mimosas and Bloody Marys. When he wasnt busy doing that, he was sprinting across the lakeside lawn carrying his favorite pink rope toy. (It expires on Sept 25. Whatever you choose, The Desert Belle is a unique way to enjoy all the beauty that Arizona has to offer. Ive added this to our list for Arizona! All road closures are passed Tortilla Flat to Apache Lake. Anglers can hook rainbow trout (the Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks the lake from November through March), channel catfish, bluegill, crappie, large- and smallmouth bass, and walleye. 55 talking about this. Dolly first began in 1983 with Dolly and Paul Kennedy as the original owners. Get answers to your questions about Phoenix. Pro Tip: Availability is tight for months in advance, and COVID capacity restrictions may still be in place, so call for reservations. Ride in your choice of an air-conditioned cabin or shaded open-air top deck, with great . We offer narrated nature cruises, twilight dinner cruises and astronomy cruises. The Southwest and northern Mexico are the only places on earth where this lush desert exists. Please let this guide know of these positive comments. I've heard of this tour a few times before I decided to try it. We could eat him up too. Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been cruising the waters of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. You will be amazed at its grand, sweeping staircase, fabulous first-class decor, and even a vintage telephone system. Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay. Rainbows and Wild Horses in the Arizona Desert! I love the desert walk, not too long for older people. Wrigley Mansion is a renowned Phoenix landmark built by the chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. in 1932 as a 50th-anniversary gift to his beloved wife. I just thought it was a little more interesting and cool looking (as in neato, not cold). Air conditioned lower and upper cabin during summer months. Reasonably priced Favorite for those who like water in the desert The guide is very engaging. If anyone is interested, there is a Groupon for the Dolly Steamboat. Driving from Phoenix to Las Vegas (Scenic or Boring? Wonderful time. While underway, the captain gives a live narration discussing the natural history of Arizona. Click here to Learn more about scenic nature cruise, Click here to Learn more about twilight dinner cruise, Click here to Learn more about astronomy dinner cruise, Click here to Learn more about game & fish bighorn sheep cruise, Click here to Learn more about all cruises, Click here to Learn more about directions, Click here to Learn more about area attractions, Click here to Learn more about private charters, Click here to Learn more about gift certificates, View the majestic desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other wildlife, waterfowl. The lower level is partially air-conditioned and has a snack bar and two restrooms. Copyright 20042023 Yelp Inc. Yelp, , and related marks are registered trademarks of Yelp. . Happy Trails!! Beat the heat on our climate controlled lower and upper decks. A great way to see beautiful rock formations, wildlife, and a gorgeous lake. Bob. We depart from hotels and resorts in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa. The boat has an open-air upper deck. per night. There are several cruise companies in the area, Dolly Steamboat being one of your options. It looks very similar to the mansion on Catalina Island off the Los Angeles coast, which was another gift Wrigley had constructed for his wife. Dolly Steamboat - Canyon Lake. The 2 deck boat features a covered upper deck, air conditioned lower deck, and a cash snack and drink bar. *Please confirm with local operator. There are also two glass-enclosed wine vaults with more than 600 wine bottles, including many rare South American varieties. Decorated as a snug seaside hideaway, this dining place is located below ground on the posh side of the valley, in upscale Scottsdale. Great guide. I've been on both these boats. My 7 Favorite U.S. Mountain Towns To Visit In The Summer, 5 Unique Stays In Rhodes, Greece With A View, 13 Highs, Lows, And Key Insights From My Years As A Freelance Writer On Travel And Other Themes, 5 Fabulous New Arizona Hotels To Book Now, The Gorgeous Bike Trail Thats A Must-Visit In This Scenic Southern Arizona Town, 7 Fantastic Reasons To Spend A Weekend In Sunny Bullhead City, Arizona, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, Cruising Past Seventy: It's Not Only About Outer Journeys. Shrink-wrap your screen door for winter! This past week we took a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. And we also had a fun group! Dolly Steamboat and Apache Trail tour from Phoenix area. And the dinner, served buffet-style, is always bountiful. There are two free boat-in campgrounds too! Take a Mark Twain voyage and admire the breathtaking scenery as you enjoy a presentation on the solar system with Dr. Sky. Planning a boat ride along with visits to Lost Dutchman SP, Tortilla Flat. They have starlit dinner cruises too! For our ninth anniversary, my husband looked hard for a seafood place because that is my favorite, having grown up on the Philippine islands. When we do, it is to celebrate a special occasion. Both are very pleasant scenic boat rides. It is a steal at this price. The Desert Belle is a locally owned tour boat offering graceful sightseeing cruises on spectacular Saguaro Lake. Dolly Steamboat Gliding Through the Arizona Desert on Canyon Lake. The Desert Belle operates Under Permit From the USDA Tonto National Forest. Desert Belle - Saguaro Lake. If you do Dolly, then you can stop at Tortilla Flat for lunch or ever a quick look at Goldfield. This is a placeholder "Excellent ride, it's kind of a mix between a social booze cruise and Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom . 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