Sunset Over the Ozarks: The Tropic Island Sundowner Cruise at Margaritaville
All Ages • 1 Hour 30 Minutes
The sun slides like a coin behind a jagged line of shoreline and the entire surface of the Lake of the Ozarks coughs up molten light. On the deck, people fall quiet—phones lowered for a moment, conversation softened by the steady thrum of the engine and the lake’s slow applause. Onboard the Tropic Island Sundowner, champagne flutes catch the last bright angles as the captain eases the yacht away from the dock at Margaritaville Lake Resort. The breeze carries the warm, lacustrine smell of late summer and the promise of a short, exacting kind of magic: 90 minutes where the world is reduced to water, weather, and the slow calculus of sunset.
Trail Wisdom
Book Dinner in Advance
Optional plated dinners must be reserved at time of booking—concessions are available onboard but not a substitute.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Boarding opens at 5:30 p.m.; arriving 15–20 minutes early ensures smooth check-in and good seating choices.
Dress in Layers
Even warm days cool quickly on the water—bring a light jacket or wrap for the deck.
Prepare for Motion
If you're prone to motion sickness, take preventative medicine before boarding; the waters are usually calm but small wakes occur.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet coves on the lake’s northern arms where herons fish at dusk
- •The Bagnell Dam Strip for post-cruise lakeside patios and local shops
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Shoreline erosion and wake damage are local concerns—observe no-wake zones, avoid feeding wildlife, and pack out all trash to protect lake habitats.
The Lake of the Ozarks was formed after Bagnell Dam closed in 1931, transforming the Osage River valley into the irregular, shoreline-rich lake visitors enjoy today.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory bird watching, Fewer crowds, Cool evening cruises
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Cooler nights
Spring brings brisk evenings and excellent bird activity—pack warm layers and expect variable skies.
summer
Best for: Golden-hour sunsets, Warm deck dining, Family-friendly outings
Challenges: Larger crowds, Hot midday temperatures
Summer is peak season for sunset cruises—book early and come ready for warm, humid nights.
fall
Best for: Autumn foliage along shore, Calmer waters, Romantic evenings
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Cooler temperatures after sunset
Fall adds color to the shoreline and crisp air to the evening—ideal for photographers and couples.
winter
Best for: Off-season quiet, Clear, crisp views
Challenges: Limited schedules, Very cold temperatures
Winter cruises run less frequently but offer stark, glassy lake scenes—dress for cold wind and short daylight.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light Packable JacketEssential
Protects against evening chill and lake wind.
Camera or Smartphone with ZoomEssential
Capture sunset and shoreline wildlife—low light benefits from steady hands or stabilization.
Sunscreen and SunglassesEssential
Late-afternoon sun still reflects off the water—protect skin and eyes.
Motion-Sickness Remedy
Useful if you’re prone to seasickness—take before boarding.
Common Questions
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No—outside food and beverage are not permitted on board; the ship has concessions and a full bar for purchase.
Is dinner included with the cruise?
Dinner is optional and must be booked at time of reservation; a concessions menu is available onboard.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes—the cruise meets accessibility requirements; check with operators about specific needs before booking.
What is the boarding protocol?
Check in at the dock by name at the Margaritaville Lake Resort meeting point; boarding opens at 5:30 p.m.
Are children allowed on board?
Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times; no strollers are permitted onboard (they can be stored on shore).
What happens if the weather is bad?
Operators reserve the right to cancel or reschedule for dangerous weather; guests are notified and rescheduling options are offered when possible.
What to Pack
Light jacket (evening chill), Camera with zoom (sunset shots), Sunscreen & sunglasses (daytime glare), Motion-sickness tablets (if prone)
Did You Know
Lake of the Ozarks has more than 1,100 miles of shoreline—more than the California coastline—because of its highly irregular shape created by Bagnell Dam in 1931.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Reserve dinner at booking; 2) Arrive 20 minutes early for parking and check-in; 3) Bring a light layer for the deck; 4) Consider motion-sickness prevention before boarding
Local Flavor
After the cruise, head to the Bagnell Dam Strip for casual lakeside bars, local seafood and BBQ spots, and small shops selling regional fudge and lake-themed souvenirs; Margaritaville Lake Resort also offers on-site dining and a beachside vibe.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest commercial airport: Columbia Regional (COU) ~80–90 miles; Dock/Trailhead: Margaritaville Lake Resort, 494 Tan Tara Estate Dr, Osage Beach; Driving distance from Osage Beach: 0–10 minutes (onsite); Cell service: Good near resort, patchy in remote coves; Permits: None required
Sustainability Note
Lake habitats are sensitive to shoreline erosion—observe no-wake zones, avoid single-use plastics, and pack out trash; support local operators who follow lake stewardship best practices.