Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise

If you’re visiting Page, Arizona, and craving a blend of breathtaking scenery and insightful commentary, the Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise might just be your ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and descriptions suggest it offers a memorable experience riding through the calm waters of Wahweap Bay, with the iconic Glen Canyon Dam and nearby natural wonders in full view.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing? First, you get to see the second-largest concrete arch dam in the U.S. from a unique perspective. Second, the chance to glimpse Antelope Canyon—a sprawling, over 10 miles long—via just a quick, scenic viewing segment. Third, the comfortable, relaxed setting, with complimentary drinks and a small group size, promises an intimate experience.

However, one consideration is the price point of $111.77 per person, which may seem steep for a 1.5-hour cruise, especially when factoring in the additional government fee of $30. Still, for those eager to combine natural beauty with history and geology, this tour offers good value. This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic views, natural landscapes, and learning about large-scale engineering feats without strenuous activity.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: You’ll see Glen Canyon Dam and impressive red Navajo Sandstone formations.
• Compact Yet Rich: A 1.5-hour journey packs in sightseeing and insights.
• Small Group Feel: Max 20 travelers, providing a more personal experience.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Lake Powell Resort, easily accessible in Page.
• Additional Costs: Be prepared for a $30 government fee not included in the ticket price.
• Authentic Experience: Reviews highlight knowledgeable crew and scenic, unspoiled vistas.

What to Expect from the Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise

The tour begins at the Lake Powell Resort, a straightforward starting point that’s easy to find. After boarding, you’ll immediately notice the comfortable vessel equipped with a restroom and space for around 20 people. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing the crew—renowned for their local knowledge—to give personalized insights into the landscape and engineering marvels.

Duration and Pacing: At roughly 1 hour 30 minutes, this cruise strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The relaxed pace means you can take in the views, snap plenty of photos, and chat with fellow travelers or the crew.

The Dam and Wahweap Bay

Your first stop is the awe-inspiring Glen Canyon Dam. Standing before it, you’ll appreciate the sheer scale of this 1,560-foot-long structure. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s just unbelievable how much there is to see,” and standing near this massive construction lends weight to that statement. The crew, often praised for their extensive knowledge, can fill you in on the dam’s history, function, and importance, turning a sightseeing moment into an educational one.

Antelope Canyon Viewpoint

The tour then transitions to a short viewing segment of Antelope Canyon, over 10 miles long. You’ll glimpse approximately four miles of canyon wall—an impressive stretch of narrow, wave-like sandstone carved by flash floods over centuries. While you won’t venture into the canyon itself, the view is enough to make your camera work worthwhile. As one reviewer put it, “It’s unbelievable how much there is to see,” and the canyon’s textures and colors make for excellent photos.

Navajo Sandstone Formations

The finale features towering Navajo Sandstone formations painted in vivid shades of red and burnt orange. These geologic masterpieces tell a story of millions of years of earth movement and erosion. The vibrant hues and dramatic shapes are a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. Expect to spend some time soaking in these views before heading back to the start point.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour price includes a mobile ticket, making it easy to book and manage. A restroom onboard adds convenience, especially on a tour lasting 1.5 hours. Complimentary drinks like water, lemonade, and coffee are available, which help keep you refreshed during the trip.

However, travelers should keep in mind the $30 government fee per person, which is not included in the ticket price. While this might seem like an extra expense, it contributes to park maintenance and conservation efforts.

The tour is most suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and a maximum of 20 participants ensuring a comfortable, less crowded experience. Since most reviews mention the crew’s knowledge and friendly attitude, expect insightful commentary that enriches your sightseeing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Lake Powell Resort: Easy to locate with parking nearby, the check-in process is straightforward, and you’ll be greeted by friendly staff.

Wahweap Bay: Once aboard, the cruise smoothly navigates through calm waters, setting a peaceful tone for the journey. The bay itself provides a scenic backdrop of rugged cliffs and lush vegetation, which adds to the tranquility and beauty of the experience.

Glen Canyon Dam: The highlight, where you’ll get a close-up view of this engineering marvel. You can walk around the deck, taking in views from different angles. The crew’s commentary helps you understand the dam’s construction and its role in water management in the region.

Antelope Canyon View: A quick but striking look at the canyon wall, perfect for photography. While you won’t explore the narrow slot canyons, the vista is enough to appreciate the intricate patterns and colors.

Navajo Sandstone Formations: The final stop offers sweeping views of layered, colorful rock formations. The experience of witnessing these geologic masterpieces in natural light makes for memorable photographs and a deeper appreciation of the area’s natural history.

End of Tour: The cruise returns to the starting point, giving you plenty of time to explore nearby areas or visit the Lake Powell Resort for refreshments or a quick stroll.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer shared, “The crew was so knowledgeable on the area,” highlighting the value of having expert commentary. They also appreciated the unbelievable variety of sights and the chance to see the dam from a different perspective. The small group size was noted as a major plus, fostering a relaxed atmosphere and more personal interactions.

Another visitor mentioned that the views were “just unbelievable,” especially the geological formations, making it clear that the landscape’s natural beauty holds up to the hype. The onboard drinks and comfortable setting contribute to a pleasurable, laid-back experience, perfect after a day of exploring Page’s other attractions.

Pricing and Value

At $111.77 per person, this cruise offers a relatively accessible way to see some of the most iconic sights around Lake Powell. When you factor in the included drinks, expert commentary, and the chance to see both a major dam and stunning natural formations, the value is evident for those eager to combine education and scenery.

The extra government fee of $30 might seem like a surprise, but it’s a standard charge for park entry and upkeep. Considering the small group size and the quality of the views, many travelers find the cost justified.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with educational value. It suits those interested in geology, large-scale engineering, or simply breathtaking landscapes. The tour’s short duration makes it a good option for travelers with tight schedules or as part of a broader itinerary in Page.

Final Thoughts

Glen Canyon’s Scenic Dam Cruise offers a well-rounded experience for travelers wanting a taste of Arizona’s natural and man-made wonders without the strenuous effort. The boat’s calm waters, combined with spectacular views of the dam, Antelope Canyon, and Navajo sandstone formations, make it an excellent choice for a relaxed day out.

The knowledgeable crew, small group setting, and the opportunity to take memorable photos mean you’ll leave with both great memories and a deeper appreciation of the area’s natural beauty and engineering feats.

If you love scenic landscapes, history, geology, and a dash of tranquility, this cruise will satisfy those cravings and leave you eager to explore more of Page’s incredible scenery.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it family-friendly. Just bear in mind that it’s a scenic cruise, so young children should be comfortable on a boat for about 1.5 hours.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The onboard drinks help keep you hydrated, but you might also want to bring sunglasses or a hat.

Are there restroom facilities on board?
Yes, the boat is equipped with a restroom, making it convenient for all travelers during the trip.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 7 days in advance, but booking earlier ensures better availability, especially during peak seasons.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on board, making this accessible for travelers with disabilities.

This scenic dam cruise showcases the natural and human-made marvels of Lake Powell, offering an accessible, informative, and visually stunning experience. Whether you’re a geology buff or just seeking peaceful views, this tour provides a great way to see the highlights of this spectacular region.