My friend and I had such a great time on the Dolly Steamboat! Even though it's hot in the desert, there was a nice breeze out on the lake that made the ride incredibly comfortable while we were outside. The scenery was absolutely gorgeous, and the whole experience felt so peaceful. The crew was friendly, welcoming, and made the experience even more enjoyable. I loved it so much that I'm already planning to bring my mom and aunts when they visit in September. If you have binoculars, definitely bring them! You'll be able to spot the bighorn sheep along the cliffs better! After the cruise, I'd recommend grabbing lunch at the Tortilla Flat Saloon and taking a drive along the Apache Trail. Just know that part of the trail is unpaved with switchbacks and steep grades, so take your time and make sure you're comfortable driving those kinds of roads. It's a really unique experience with incredible views, and you'll eventually end up at the Roosevelt Dam. It was the perfect Arizona day and a wonderful way to experience the beauty, and history, of the desert. read more

A friend and I went on the Dinner Astronomy Cruise. There were only 40 of the 160 people boat holds, which means lots of room and more if a personal experience. We left promptly at 6:30 PM four our narrated tour and dinner. The weather and temps could not have been better. We toured the lake, saw fossils on the Canyon Walls I didn't know existed, saw Big horn sheep and beautiful scenery. The food was really good with smoke portions, Dr. Sky finished the evening with a discussion on the Blue Moon, Venus, Jupiter and the elusive Space Station. A very enjoyable trip snd memories. I highly recommend this for a family, romantic evening or just an evening out. read more

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Celebrated our anniversary with my brother and his wife celebrating theirs as well. Evening dinner cruise was enjoyed very much. Bbq chicken and ribs dinner was tasty. The cruise was enjoyable with good narration by the captain, describing the scenery and history. The crew was friendly, the conditions very comfortable. If the passengers would all follow directions the dinner service would have been seamless, but my party enjoyed the two hour cruise very much. read more

Dolly Steamboat - Four peaks from the boat! - Boat Charters Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Took my mother here while she was visiting from the West Coast, and we had such a great experience. They use a number system for boarding, so I'd recommend arriving early to get on first. The boat is double-decker there's a covered top level and a lower deck with windows that slide open, which was really nice. They also have a bar on board with alcohol, chips, soda, and water. The views were absolutely beautiful, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. Overall, I'd definitely say this ride is well worth the money! read more

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It is touristy but not cheesy. Full marks to the Management of this Operation. And aye aye Captain on a job well done. It was a magnificent experience cruising between the majestic mountains on Canyon Lake, viewing the long-horn rams (sheep) surefootedly climbing the gigantic mountain face. Magnificent. Arizonan mountains, gorges, canyons, vistas ... I never tire of them. read more

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I went back and forth on my rating here: three stars or four? Pros: It's a cruise around beautiful Canyon Lake. The captain will come on from time to time giving you facts about the area. There is the "chance" you may see wildlife like bighorn sheep. (We did not, so I was bummed.) They have a snack bar on board selling soda, popcorn, water etc. Cons: Our captain affected a game show host voice which was grating, and made it hard to hear what he was saying at times. We did not see any wildlife. That's not anyone's fault but it was definitely disappointing since it's advertised as a possible perk. We arrived 30 minutes prior as recommended on their site and that was apparently poor advice. We were the last to board. Everyone else seemed to know to get there well before that and scooped up all the primo seats. Live and learn, I guess. For $35 per person I'm not sure it's worth that price. In closing, I gave them four stars because they run the cruise professionally. It's not their fault that we didn't see wildlife. As for the price, I don't own a boat - so cruising around Canyon Lake is something I'm willing to pay to do. I'd just recommend arriving far earlier than 30 minutes before your cruise if you'd like to choose the best seats. read more

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What an incredible experience! I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday alongside so many others, which made the event feel even more festive and memorable. The staff was outstanding--friendly, attentive, and truly committed to making everyone feel welcome. The drinks were excellent, and the overall atmosphere and experience exceeded my expectations. The only reason I didn't give it five stars was the food. As someone who truly enjoys great dining, I felt the menu didn't quite match the overall quality of the experience or the price point. I would have loved to see more flavorful, higher-quality options that complemented everything else this event has to offer. That said, I would absolutely recommend this experience to others. The exceptional service, fun atmosphere, and unforgettable memories made it a celebration I'll always cherish. read more

My family had an absolutely wonderful time cruising on the Dolly Steamboat! I received tickets for my birthday and we decided to go on February 1st. My 7 year old daughter loved it! It was the perfect amount of time, it was beautiful out and the caption was very informative. There were snacks and concessions available for purchase (cash only) and bathrooms on board. Our cruise was sold out from 2-3:30 pm! It never felt overcrowded but it was definitely full onboard. As people who have lived in Arizona for almost 30 years this was the first time we have done this and were bummed we waited so long to enjoy it! We highly recommend the Dolly Steamboat!! read more

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It's a twisty turny path to get here but it's worth the trip. The tour is about and hour and a half and narrated by Captain Ron (yes, that's really his name) you may get to see some wildlife on the cruise (we didn't) but that's the chance you take. The snakes on board are reasonably priced and our trip wasn't overly crowded. We left at 2:00 pm on a 83 degree February day, but the earlier you go, you may want to bring a sweater at least. (It also could be a little windy). There are port-a-John's in the parking lot, and the parking lot is just gravel so if you're wearing sandals like I did, just be advised. All in all it was a good cruise and you learn a little about the area. read more

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Everything about this 2 hour cruise was excellent! The captain was informative, humorous, engaging and soothing all at the same time... he had a velvet voice... the boatride was smooth and pleasant and beautiful... our Captain gave us tidbits of information, pointed out fascinating rock formations and searched for the wildlife indigenous to the area... he spotted bighorn sheep and bald eagles with his eagle eyes and came out of his booth several times to assist passengers who couldn't locate them. He really seemed to love the joy he gave us when we spotted it and he delighted when we laughed at his jokes. He even made fun of my friend who couldn't tell the difference between a rock and a bighorn!!! "No,that's a rock" He said in a true Charlie Brown voice... This was well worth the money as it was peaceful, beautiful, fun, magnificent and soothing... read more

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After living in Phoenix, Arizona for 25 years, I can't believe it took me this long to visit Canyon Lake and take a cruise on the Dolly Steamboat. I only wish we had done it years ago! The drive alone is worth the trip. The winding road through the desert offers incredible scenery and makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. My wife and our two sons (ages 6 and 4) had an absolute blast. The Dolly Steamboat is beautiful, the staff was incredibly welcoming and friendly, and the cruise was smooth, relaxing, and enjoyable from start to finish. One of the biggest surprises was the wildlife. We had previously taken an ocean tour in San Diego where we ended up seasick and didn't see a single animal. This experience was the complete opposite. The water was calm, and we spotted multiple desert bighorn sheep--including several adorable babies--throughout the canyon. It was an unforgettable experience for both our kids and us. After the cruise, we made the short drive to Tortilla Flat Saloon for lunch, and it was the perfect way to end the day. The food was great, the staff was friendly, and it was fun to see almost all of our fellow Dolly Steamboat passengers there, swapping stories about everything we had seen on the cruise. If you're looking for a unique Arizona adventure that's fun for the whole family, I can't recommend the Dolly Steamboat enough. Whether you're visiting Arizona or have lived here for decades like I have, this is one experience you shouldn't miss! read more

Dolly Steamboat - Boat Charters Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

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We did the twilight dinner cruise on the Dolly, and it was nice. Lake was calm and the boat was clean and staff outstanding. This two decker has both decks enclosed so if you are sitting on seats away from the windows you only have a limited view of the canyon walls which were beautiful, you do have a chance of spotting wildlife although we did not see anything this time. The buffet dinner was solid--better than expected for onboard: generous portions of carved meats (like beef or chicken), veggies, salad, rolls, and a nice dessert. Nothing super gourmet, but tasty. Crew were friendly, attentive, and fun, checked on everyone and kept things smooth, Due to the noise level inside the decks, the captain's commentary was hard to hear at times. The boat itself is charming with a small outdoor spot for better views. Overall, a fair value for a unique outing. Minor nitpick meals can feel a bit basic so if you do not expect fine dining. While I recommend this for a special occasion, I am not sure I would go again. read more

The Dolly Steamboat was such a fun little Arizona adventure! Less than an hour from Scottsdale, this 2-hour ride had beautiful lake views, mountain goats, and vultures flying overhead. There was plenty of seating inside with AC and outside for the scenery, plus affordable snacks and drinks. My friend and I got amazing pictures and made such a fun memory together! read more

Dolly Steamboat - Scenery - Boat Charters Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

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The views are breath taking and amazing. It's very calming slow boat riding down the canyon. There are some wild life if you're lucky. There is also boaters, kayaks, jet ski sharing the water. But makes it for exciting ride. Cons - cash only or preferred. Bring a couple $20s if you want drinks and snacks. They do have freshly popped popcorn which I thought was cute touch for the boat ride. Best advice - If you want a good seat you need to get there at least an hour before if not more. It's first come first serve but by the number system. When you check in for your tickets you receive a number. That's how you board. Limited outside deck seating. Imma guess 4 -6 top tier ones and 4 bottom. If you don't get one of those you will be sitting inside. I think that is a down fall. They have wide windows that are open but not the same. But there is a lot of people that know about the seating and basically run to them. It's a free for all at the beginning. I do agree with others that price is a little high. Once you get past that initial boarding - it's nice cruise if your from out of town. read more

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Great cruise! Amazing views! We were unable to cut or chew our roast beef. The chicken was delicious. read more

Dolly Steamboat - Boat Charters Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

Had a wonderful time. Staff was courteous, professional, and a joy to be with third time going here would go back.

Great time, highly recommend! Parking: plenty! Staff: efficiency at checking in and boarding. They allow disabilities, wheelchairs etc first boarding. Cruise: beautiful w/Capt narrating occasionally and Jan his 'first mate' scouring hills for wildlife. We did see a Bighorn Sheep and an Eagle from afar. Plenty of seating inside and out with inside fully covered. Snacks/drinks, both alcohol and non available for sale on boat as you cannot bring any food aboard, only water. A Med popcorn was $7, lg $10. We didn't buy anything. Was it worth $35 p/p eh, no. We did have a 1 free coupon from Entertainment via AARP. read more

A must do while visiting Arizona - the Dolly Steamboat tour on Canyon Lake. The staff were fantastic, and we got great views of the rock formations, a wall of spectacular fossil ammonites, and wild animals. We got lucky and saw a large group of Bighorn Sheep coming down for water. The weather was nice and had seats at the back main covered deck. The Captain provided great history and stories and maneuvered the boat to give us great photo shoots. Washrooms on board as well as drinks and food. Most people had the popcorn - freshly popped. About an hour drive from Phoenix. Buy your tickets on-line. Suggest you also add the Goldmine Ghost Town and Mine Tour with the Dolly Steamboat tour as you can do both easily. If Leaving Goldmine Ghost Town, give yourself an extra 10 mins and make a stop the Canyon Lake Vista for photos. The drive to the Dolly Steamboat will be a winding road but not hard. read more

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Had an awesome morning ride with my family in April. Perfect weather! Because there was rain in the forecast there was a super light turnout. We got lucky on all counts! Lots of space and no rain!!! Great driver/guide who pointed out birds & animals and talked about the area. Beautiful lake! Worth the ticket and time spent!!! read more

Took our granddaughter for her birthday, it was a special experience. The weather was amazing (we went in April) and the lake was beautiful. We saw bunches of big horned sheep! Definitely recommend! read more

If you looking for a nice boat ride for cheap Ill say go for Dolly steamboat. It was great hour and half boat ride and nice views of the mountains and lake together. 10/10 will go back. Also bring cash since they are cash only. read more

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What an amazing experience! Scenery is beautiful, the boat ride was very relaxing. The captain does a great job of highlighting the areas of interest along the way. The boarding process to get your tickets could use some tweaking though. Is a cluster of people in large groups to get to the window and people cutting in front of each other as there is no actual line formation. read more

We've lived within 30 minutes of canyon lake for forever and this was our first time on Dolly. It was so easy to purchase tickets and the boarding pass process went quickly. The captain was great and the experience was a lot of fun. The recommendation on the website is to arrive 30m prior to your board time but I would say to arrive earlier than that as you receive boarding tickets first come, first serve (1, 2, 3 etc). They board in groups of 10 so if you're in the first group you get first choice of seats. We saw a couple different groups of bighorn sheep, we sipped cold drinks, snacked on popcorn and enjoyed the beautiful breeze and canyon walls. It was a fun AZ experience! read more

Such a fun evening! Took my in-laws for a Friday evening twilight cruise and they LOVED it!

We bought tickets on the Dolly for a nature cruise. As a party of 8 people (2 from Ohio, 6 from Mesa & Chandler, AZ) we were celebrating a grandson's high school graduation the night before. Every part of our day; from my ordering tickets online, to the directions to get to Canyon Lake Marina (even how to input our destination into Maps) to boarding went perfectly! One family member was hesitant about the outing because he walks slowly, but everyone around us was friendly and patient. Scenery was gorgeous, narration was informative...we wouldn't change anything! Highly recommend, especially for Arizona folk who have out of state visitors! read more

What a wonderful way to start off my trip! The drive was slightly over an hour from Phoenix. The scenic views on the way there made the drive easy until I noticed the speed decreasing first to 25 then to 15. Before I knew it, I was driving on a mountain to get down to Dolly Steamboat. I almost freaked out because I wasn't prepared for this. My palms were sweating and I was doing control breathing exercises and before I knew it, four cars were behind me wanting to go around me as I'm driving the speed limit, but cars were easily flying around these curves. Anyway, just be prepared to drive on a mountain. The tour itself was relaxing, lovely, and beautiful!! We saw bald eagles and a few animals on the mountains. The tour guide was informative and knowledgeable. Despite the drive on the mountain, overall I had a wonderful experience and would definitely come back. read more

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We loved the boat ride. Beautiful scenery.. we loved the tour guide/captain. We even saw some longhorn goats read more

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We had a group of 9 go for a fun boat ride. It went seamlessly. Recommend to locals and visitors alike. read more

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am writing to express my disappointment regarding the behavior of one of the attendants during my recent dinner boat cruise. During the event, I asked for a glass of ice and was told that ice was "limited" in a rude and unprofessional manner. There was no reason for the interaction to be handled with such poor attitude, especially considering guests are paying for an enjoyable hospitality experience. I understand that there may occasionally be limitations on supplies, but customer service should still remain respectful. The attendant's behavior negatively impacted what should have been an enjoyable evening. I would appreciate this matter being addressed with your staff so future guests are treated more courteously. Sincerely,Kathleen read more

Chair stools too uncomfortable for a 1-1/2 ride lower the tables and get normal seats read more

Beautiful scenery and awesome ride for a great price! We booked our tour after seeing an advertisement on tv and are so happy we bought tickets. What an enjoyable day exploring this beautiful lake and canyon by steamboat. I highly recommend this tour and will definitely bring family and friends when they visit. read more

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The workers were so kind and polite. Embarking and disembarking was done in a very orderly manner. The ride was and the announcements regarding the animals, cactus, eagles, goats etc was very educational. It was a very rewarding and relaxing experience, read more

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We had as a group of six an awesome time plus we had so much wildlife! I think because of the recent rain shower, the big horns were grazing like crazy. Plus it wasn't hot. Great time. read more

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It was easy to make a reservation for a few hours on the water!! We cruised around the lake, saw some Big Horned Sheep, petrified trees and gorgeous scenery! Great narration along the way! Great staff! We will be doing it again!! read more

The man that was stopping cars at the front had his hand up so I thought he was waving and I waved back. I continued to park and he left his post to approach me. He said I almost ran him over when I was no where near him. What started as a date ended in being harassed. I told him if he wanted me to stop he should have put both hands up but even now genius get a stop sign. He followed me from my car all the way to the entrance to confront me over and over. I asked him to stop harassing me and he finally walked off. I'll definitely not recommend this to anyone again. This guy was entitled and had the biggest power trip I've ever seen. Thank you for ruining the experience fat guy in the golf cart. read more

Beautiful cruise! Great employees! Terrific service and experience! Will certainly do the cruise again!! Love Arizona! read more

The boat crew was professional, accommodating, friendly and knowledgeable about the lakes formation and history. The food was great and the atmosphere was relaxing. Seeing the lake with its massive rock walls making a perfect silhouette against the sapphire sky at sunset was very romantic and will forever remain in our memories. read more

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Perfect night for a dinner cruise. The Captain and Crew were lovely and the dinner was good too. Beautiful views. Highly recommend the Dolly! read more

My husband and I really enjoyed the boat ride. There were amazing views and very relaxing. The staff was nice and the boat was very clean and you could see both inside the cabin (which had AC) and out. The car ride to the port was also an experience.....great views. Be sure to gas up before making your way to the port!! Would recommend for sure. read more

Very nice cruise with tremendous views of the canyon. Snacks and drinks available while you sit back and enjoy the history and scenery. read more

Dolly Steamboat - Boat Charters Near Me - Apache Junction, Arizona

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