easy
1.5 hours
Minimal physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Discover the breathtaking Lake Mead and Hoover Dam on a 90-minute boat tour with Lake Mead Cruises in Boulder City, Nevada. Relax aboard the Desert Princess while enjoying informative narration and desert scenery.
Located in Boulder City, Nevada, Lake Mead Cruises offers an unforgettable 90-minute boat tour that explores the remarkable Lake Mead and towering Hoover Dam. This private outdoor adventure stands apart as a serene escape into one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States. Visitors glide over shimmering blue waters while taking in stunning desert landscapes, rugged canyon walls, and the iconic engineering marvel of Hoover Dam. The Desert Princess, the tour’s well-maintained vessel, features a clean, spacious deck and amenities including a bar and food service, allowing passengers to comfortably relax and enjoy the ride. Friendly, knowledgeable crew members share fascinating stories and facts about the dam’s construction and Lake Mead’s history, enriching the experience with insight into the region’s natural and cultural significance.
Lake Mead was formed by the damming of the Colorado River in the 1930s and remains a vital water source and recreation hub for the Southwest. Its clear waters support diverse fish species, often visible during the cruise, attracting anglers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The tour also provides an opportunity to see other boats and personal watercraft enjoying the lake, highlighting its popularity as a year-round destination. Despite the intense summer heat of the Nevada desert—sometimes reaching above 110 degrees—guests can cool off in the lake during scheduled stops or remain shaded on the boat. Locals appreciate the discount options, making this a favored outing for residents and visitors.
What makes Lake Mead Cruises unique is how it combines relaxation, education, and spectacular views all in one journey. It’s ideal for groups seeking a laid-back adventure with a touch of wilderness and history, set amid the vast expanse of the desert lake. Whether it’s families, couples, or solo travelers, the boat tour provides a perfect window into the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, an outdoor treasure near the vibrant city of Las Vegas. This experience exemplifies the blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity found in Boulder City and offers a refreshing way to connect with Nevada’s scenic outdoors.
Lake Mead’s desert sun can be intense; apply SPF 30+ and wear a hat to avoid sunburn.
Although there is a bar aboard, carrying extra water is recommended to stay hydrated during the trip.
Morning and evening can be cooler on the lake, so bring a light jacket or wrap, especially in spring or fall.
If you plan to swim during stops, pack swimwear and towels to enjoy the cool lake waters.
Lake Mead was created in the 1930s by the Hoover Dam project and represents one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S.
Lake Mead Cruises practices sustainable tourism by minimizing waste and educating visitors on protecting the lake’s fragile desert environment.
Protect your skin from strong desert sun during the cruise.
summer specific
Provides additional shade to keep your face and neck cool.
summer specific
Useful for cooler mornings and evenings on the lake.
spring specific
Great for swimming and cooling off during stops on the tour.
summer specific