Boat Tours & Lake Cruises Near Scottsdale, Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 1, 2026.

Scottsdale does not have a large recreational lake within the city, but several of central Arizona's most popular boat cruises are within driving distance. Visitors can take a narrated Desert Belle cruise on Saguaro Lake, explore the dramatic canyon scenery of Canyon Lake aboard the Dolly Steamboat, or enjoy a social cruise on Tempe Town Lake. Cruise schedules, seasonal offerings and availability vary, so check with each operator before making travel plans.

• Scottsdale Area Boat Tours
• Saguaro Lake Cruises
• Canyon Lake Cruises
• Tempe Town Lake Cruises
• Compare Boat Tours
• Best Time To Cruise
• Planning Tips
• FAQ

Scottsdale Area Boat Tours & Lake Cruises

Most scheduled sightseeing cruises near Scottsdale operate on lakes elsewhere in the Greater Phoenix and East Valley area. Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake provide dramatic Sonoran Desert and mountain scenery, while Tempe Town Lake offers an urban cruising experience near downtown Tempe. The three destinations provide very different outings, ranging from narrated nature cruises to dinner cruises and social group cruises.

Desert Belle Cruises - Saguaro Lake

Desert Belle Cruises has been cruising Saguaro Lake since 1964. Its narrated sightseeing cruises explore the lake's canyon walls and Sonoran Desert scenery while covering local history, geology, geography and wildlife. The climate-controlled lower cabin and open-air upper deck provide different ways to enjoy the approximately 80-minute cruise. Specialty offerings may include live-music, wine, craft-beer and seasonal cruises.

Dolly Steamboat - Canyon Lake

Dolly Steamboat normally offers scenic nature cruises and specialty cruises through the dramatic waterways of Canyon Lake near the Superstition Mountains. Passengers may see desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and other wildlife while learning about the area's scenery, history and natural environment. Important: Dolly Steamboat temporarily suspended cruises beginning August 30, 2026 while Canyon Lake is lowered for dam inspections and maintenance. Current plans call for cruises to resume around January 2027; confirm operating status before traveling.

Tempe Boat Cruisin' - Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Boat Cruisin' offers captained social cruises on Tempe Town Lake aboard cycle boats designed for groups of up to 26 passengers. Guests can pedal at designated stations or simply relax while the boat's electric motor keeps the cruise moving. Public and private cruises may include sunset outings, celebrations, family gatherings and group events with views of downtown Tempe and the surrounding waterfront.

Which Scottsdale Area Boat Tour Is Best?

• Desert Belle: Best for narrated Sonoran Desert scenery, wildlife viewing and a relaxing Saguaro Lake sightseeing cruise.
• Dolly Steamboat: Best for dramatic Canyon Lake scenery, wildlife viewing and scenic or specialty cruises near the Superstition Mountains.
• Tempe Boat Cruisin': Best for social outings, celebrations and group cruises in an urban lake setting.
• Nature and wildlife: Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake provide the strongest opportunities for desert scenery and wildlife viewing.
• Groups and celebrations: Tempe Town Lake and selected specialty cruises on the larger tour boats may be good choices for private groups.

Best Time For Boat Tours Near Scottsdale

Fall through spring generally offers the most comfortable weather for scenic lake cruises near Scottsdale, with mild daytime temperatures and excellent desert views. Summer cruises can still be enjoyable, particularly aboard vessels with shaded or climate-controlled seating, but temperatures can become extremely hot. Cruise schedules and specialty programs change seasonally, and weather, water levels or maintenance projects can affect operations.

Planning A Scottsdale Area Lake Cruise

• Reserve ahead: Popular sightseeing, dinner and specialty cruises can sell out.
• Confirm operating status: Lake levels, maintenance projects and weather can affect cruise schedules.
• Check the location: Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake and Tempe Town Lake are outside Scottsdale and require driving time.
• Arrive early: Allow time for parking, ticket pickup and boarding before your scheduled departure.
• Prepare for desert sun: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and appropriate clothing for open-air deck areas.
• Bring a light layer: Morning, evening and winter cruises can feel cooler on the water.
• Check accessibility: Contact the cruise operator in advance if mobility assistance or other accommodations are needed.
• Verify current policies: Food, beverages, pets, children and onboard rules vary by operator.

Boat Tours Near Scottsdale FAQ

Are There Boat Tours In Scottsdale?

Scottsdale itself does not have a major lake cruise attraction, but several popular boat tours are within driving distance on Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake and Tempe Town Lake.

What Is The Closest Scenic Lake Cruise To Scottsdale?

Saguaro Lake is one of the closest major desert-lake cruise destinations to Scottsdale and is home to Desert Belle Cruises.

What Boat Tours Are Available On Saguaro Lake?

Desert Belle Cruises offers narrated sightseeing cruises and may also offer live-music and other specialty cruises depending on the season and schedule.

What Boat Tours Are Available On Canyon Lake?

Dolly Steamboat normally offers scenic nature cruises along with selected dinner and specialty cruises on Canyon Lake.

Is Dolly Steamboat Operating In 2026?

Dolly Steamboat temporarily suspended operations beginning August 30, 2026 while Canyon Lake is lowered for dam inspections and maintenance. Cruises are expected to resume around January 2027, but visitors should verify the current operating schedule before traveling.

Can You Take A Cruise On Tempe Town Lake?

Yes. Tempe Boat Cruisin' offers captained social cruises on Tempe Town Lake aboard cycle boats that combine optional pedal stations with electric propulsion.

Which Lake Cruise Is Best For Wildlife Viewing?

Saguaro Lake and Canyon Lake provide opportunities to see Sonoran Desert wildlife, including birds and other animals along the shoreline and surrounding mountains.

Do Scottsdale Area Boat Tours Operate Year-Round?

Schedules vary by operator and season. Weather, lake conditions, water levels and maintenance projects can also temporarily affect operations.

Should Boat Cruises Be Reserved In Advance?

Advance reservations are recommended, particularly for weekends, holidays, dinner cruises, specialty cruises and popular sightseeing departures.

Are Scottsdale Area Boat Tours Good For Families?

Many lake cruises accommodate families, although age requirements, life-jacket rules and onboard policies vary. Check directly with the operator before booking with young children.

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