Top Phoenix Cruises: Find the Best Sailing Tour in 2025

So, thinking of swapping the desert heat for a cool cruise near Phoenix? Yeah, I get that, too it’s almost like sometimes you just need to get out on the water, even if it means a little drive first. That being the case, Phoenix, Arizona, might be landlocked, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with just cacti and canyons. Very surprisingly, there actually are some cool options for cruises and sailing tours within driving distance, offering a welcome break from the city. We are going to explore the top five options that promise relaxation, views, and a whole bunch of fun. Very specifically, these aren’t exactly ocean cruises setting sail from Phoenix (since, well, there’s no ocean!), but they’re absolutely great day trips to nearby lakes and waterways. That is something to look forward to.

1. Saguaro Lake Desert Breeze Cruise

You, like your dose of desert scenery with a touch of maritime excitement? Well, Saguaro Lake is actually just the place. Frankly, located a pretty quick drive from Phoenix, this lake provides some super stunning views, and the Desert Breeze cruise really shows them off. That is something special, as a matter of fact, this 90-minute narrated tour really lets you sit back and take it easy while you glide past towering saguaros and rugged mountains. Usually, the boat’s comfy, and you can learn a bit about the local flora, fauna, and geography. So, if you are bringing the family along, it’s seemingly a hit with all ages. What you get is a super informative but also peaceful experience on the water, unlike anything else around.

Basically, what’s so cool: It’s sort of an effortless way to see the desert from a cool different angle. That’s the thing, alright. The tours typically happen a few times a day, just a little pre-booking can save you a seat. So, too it’s almost worth checking the weather beforehand; you definitely want sunshine for the picture-perfect moments, alright?

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2. Lake Pleasant Cruises

So, thinking of something a little grander? Like maybe a bigger lake with way more activity options? Just a little similar to what I’m describing, Lake Pleasant is, seemingly, one big playground for water lovers. Actually, there might be quite a few cruise options here, from scenic daytime tours to sunset dinner cruises. Alright, the scenery is amazing; you get tons of open water surrounded by hills, alright, that kind of invites exploration. In that case, some tours add things such as kayaking or paddleboarding for a complete day out. Anyway, picture it; it’s almost like cruising around as the sun sets, right, with food, drinks, and great company? In other words, this, usually, ends up pretty memorable. Just remember, if you find this great cruise.

Anyway, to me, the lake’s actually the best, as it is so big it actually doesn’t usually feel crowded. Well, the cruises are normally very smooth. The only problem is that you are going to have the best luck if you actually want a party atmosphere or a peaceful evening getaway. In that case, you need to shop around a little. Right, now if that sounds like something you might like, book way in advance, too it’s almost guaranteed to get the kind of experience you had in mind. You will find it as you go.

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3. Canyon Lake Boat Tours

Now, for a really more cozy and dramatic setting, right, now Canyon Lake really brings the goods. The reason I mention that is the cruises here often feature, apparently, towering canyon walls that practically rise straight from the water. To me, that sounds more intimate. Yeah, to me, this actually makes for a great view of the landscape, alright, especially at sunset when everything lights up. Actually, some of the tours also offer wildlife viewing opportunities; it actually isn’t too unusual to spot bighorn sheep or other desert critters on the cliffs. Seriously, they’re right up there. Right, so be sure you’re going to bring your camera because this is genuinely one spot where you want to grab way more than a few photos.

To be honest, if you have some time you might very well want to swing by the nearby ghost town of Tortilla Flat. Like what I’m saying, it’s kind of touristy, yeah, you are going to like it for a quick peek into Arizona’s past. Obviously, getting those tickets squared away can make things way more smooth, which means just less waiting around, that’s what I usually do, to be honest.

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4. Tempe Town Lake Cruises

Usually, if you fancy something way more urban and closer to Phoenix, the very conveniently situated Tempe Town Lake, arguably, could be right up your street. Arguably, it’s a lake is actually right in the city. Seriously, you actually can go from shopping to sailing in a jiffy. Anyway, what can I say. Right, there actually might be fewer large-scale “cruises” here. So, you definitely can find smaller boat rentals, kayaking, and paddleboat options for a chill day on the water. In other words, there is no bad way to explore. Clearly, in the evening, actually some of the boats go for sunset views that incorporate the city skyline which can be a really great view of the cityscape from afar.

Right, Tempe Town Lake also has some nice walking and biking paths, and some, and a fair number of great restaurants right around the lake. Arguably, why not do the lake cruise/rental combined with some tasty food and a stroll. To be honest, planning’s kind of crucial because it’s still worth doing. That’s cool to me, alright?

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5. Dolly Steamboat on Apache Lake

Very interestingly, Apache Lake is more isolated than the other lakes listed so far. However, it might actually appeal if you appreciate some remote areas. That is actually a gem, I’m saying, as the Dolly Steamboat presents all sorts of different cruises on the lake, running the scope from scenic day trips to sunset dinner outings. That actually has a certain appeal, honestly, and many love this spot. What you get is, honestly, views are so wild; towering rock formations sort of look like they are straight out of an old Western film. That’s it, it’s all old.

Well, alright then, this is normally not an issue. Apparently, keep this in mind, but alright, for an especially great treat try to aim for one of the nighttime cruises – seeing the desert stars from the boat can be totally incredible. Clearly, you may be best booking ahead for The Dolly, particularly if you have a plan for specific dates or a party size. Really, do not forget to check their schedule for some specialty cruises; these folks really know what they are doing.

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