Ive been really really good for days. Was informative and interesting The Dolly Steamboat heads into the canyon where it will disappear from view. A very memorable experience. Eric our guide was very good! I enjoyed both equally. 3. For our ninth anniversary, my husband looked hard for a seafood place because that is my favorite, having grown up on the Philippine islands. var cid = []; Dolly steamboat or Desert belle? - Phoenix Message Board - Tripadvisor We'll be spending a day along Apache trail with 3 little kids (1,3,6)and elderly uncle during our 3 day stay in Mesa. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Get Deal. The food on the windstar was incredible. Before I tell you about my other five picks, let me tell you about the fun dinner we had on a steamboat. Report inappropriate content 1-7 of 7 replies Sorted by 1 Janss Sedona, AZ Destination Expert for Sedona Level Contributor 3,391 posts 8 reviews 10 helpful votes 1. Highly recommend! The spacious, 6,500-square-foot restaurant has a 1,000-pound door crafted from African and South American stones. We are using the Groupon for Gold Canyon Resort also in two weeks. Phoenix Tourism Phoenix Hotels Bed and Breakfast Phoenix Phoenix Holiday Rentals Phoenix Holiday Packages Flights to Phoenix Phoenix Restaurants . It's geared for college kids. 1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Included. Carol has been to 48 countries but their 3-month all-inclusive winter escapes to Mexico in Mazatlan, Cancun, or Cozumel are their best times. This narrated cruise explores a slot canyon. Dolly Boat trip Both the van driver and boat captain were very interesting narrators. Frank was a knowledgeable and accommodating tour guide and the group was fun! They now call Mesa, Arizona, home. Cost: Scenic Nature Cruise is $22 adults and teens 13 and older, $20 seniors, $12 children 5-12, free . The cost was $25.00 for a 90-minute tour. Luckily, they also have a la carte menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that our budget could accommodate. Once aboard the Dolly you may view the majestic desert big horn sheep, bald eagles and a host of . Visits to their kids homes in Anchorage, Boise, and Denver (his) and in San Francisco, Calgary, and Melbourne (hers) allow for exploring the U.S., Canada, and Australia. I've heard of this tour a few times before I decided to try it. Enjoyed it very much. He liked to show us how fast he could zip between the legs of our tripods. The explanation about the canals and water was very interesting. 37,518 posts, read 47,846,144 times Reputation: 26227. Great post and informative. It frowns on hats, tank tops, shorts, flip-flops, and branded sportswear. But to our surprise, we traveled three miles into the hinterlands, winding our way through fabulous rock canyons that were studded with saguaro cactus. Dolly Steamboat Cruise- The Best Way To Experience Canyon Lake Fabulous band onboard, "Southwest Surfers (but I understand they use different bands on different days). Have also done both and equally liked them. And Chef Dahl creates a unique South American-inspired cuisine thats informed by her travels to Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile. After the wedding ceremony, they honeymooned for eight years in an RV to 49 states, nine Canadian provinces, and six Mexican states. I just thought it was a little more interesting and cool looking (as in neato, not cold). This experience requires good weather. Before I tell you about my other five picks, let me tell you about the fun dinner we had on a steamboat. 51 helpful votes Dolly steamboat or Desert belle? " 29/03/2022. . Nestled in the heart of the Superstition Mountains lie spectacular Canyon Lake, home of the Dolly Steamboat. (It expires on Sept 25. Canyon Lake | Visit Arizona I highly recommend this tour. Phoenix. We offer many different cruising options. Our tour guide was Captain John and he was fantastic. We also touch on the beautiful flora from the stately Saguaro cacti to the microscopic organism called desert varnish. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground rents watercraft and equipment everything from pontoons and runabouts to canoes, kayaks and water skis. Carolina Esguerra Colborn April 14, 2022 at 3:44 AM. Rainbows and Wild Horses in the Arizona Desert! . We could eat him up too. We depart from hotels and resorts in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa. We had such a peaceful day on the Lake. Cruise Canyon Lake for 90-minutes aboard Dolly Steamboat. Absolutely loved it. Ride a van through the Sonora Desert, a rare desert environment found in the American Southwest and Mexico. I agree. My husband saw an ad mentioning dining by a waterfall in the desert that is Phoenix. Dolly Steamboat. Eric was good guide, helpful and informative. This past week we took a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Tour 2023 - Phoenix - Viator Desert Belle Cruises | Mesa AZ - Facebook However, we decided just to stand outside the entire journey, which provided us with the best views. Nestled in the heart of the Superstition Mountains lies the spectacular Canyon Lake, home of the Dolly Steamboat. But there is another draw to this place. Both are very pleasant scenic boat rides. This place is sure to be a fun experience for the whole family! How does the Desert Belle compare? 12,944 were here. You'll often see Bighorn Sheep, Bald Eagles and other wildlife as you cruise the waters of Canyon Lake. . The guide was excellent!! Awesome tip on the Groupon. Snap photos of Tonto National Forest, and look for local wildlife such as bald eagles, coyotes and bobcats. Like you said, the lake seems small but when you get down in it, its much bigger. Great guide. RV Keyless Entry Door Lock Problems? A must do on any adventure. Your email address will not be published. Be alert on the way in, have a sumptuous dinner, and allow romance to fill the air on the way back. Throughout the tour he would point out animals and we were able to see a few bald eagles! Beat the heat on our air conditioned lower and upper decks! This one-day trip takes you deep into the Sonora Desert loaded with Saguaro cactus and beautiful desert landscapes. The 2 deck boat features a covered upper deck, air conditioned lower deck, and a cash snack and drink bar. Here are six places we recommend. How does the Desert Belle compare? Wonderful time. We were startled at how rugged and dramatic the rock canyons were. When we were RVing, each campground gave us a majestic mountain, a flowing river, a refreshing lake, a sunny beach, et cetera as a backdrop. Driving from Phoenix to Las Vegas (Scenic or Boring? 52 reviews. But Buddys favorite spot was a place in the shade up on deck where he got a dogs eye view. Keep your eyes open for long horn sheep and eagles. 4. (document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0] || :-) Reply Delete. Pro Tip: Availability is tight for months in advance, and COVID capacity restrictions may still be in place, so call for reservations. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Not sure if that one is still available. 6 Unique Dining Experiences In Arizona | TravelAwaits It looks very similar to the mansion on Catalina Island off the Los Angeles coast, which was another gift Wrigley had constructed for his wife. Fossil Creek Waterfall A Pretty Hike to a Scenic Cascade. No consideration for guests - Review of the Dolly Steamboat, Tortilla If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Party & Event Planning. Our driver, Eric, was very knowledgeable and pleasant. Air conditioned lower and upper cabin during summer months. The trip isn't too long, and we were very comfortable the entire time. The large windows and open aft decks provide great vantage points for viewing the wildlife and scenery. Your specific hotel may not be in the pick up route on a particular day. Thanks, Renee. Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been cruising the waters of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. |, 50 Mesmerizing Attractions in the Southwest, 8 Great Daytrips to Escape the Phoenix Heat, Visiting the Countrys Newest Aquarium: The OdySea in Scottsdale, AZ, 10 Interesting Day Trips Less than 2 Hours from Tucson, 10 Western National Parks to Add to your Bucket List. Your email address will not be published. We did the Desert Belle this past Sat. Plan extra time for the curvy ride which slowly travels through the scenic Superstition mountains. Enjoyed it very much. This thread is great. Desert Belle Cruises 2019 All Rights Reserved. You will love it! AZ Great Adventure Fishing. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour - Cool Destinations Both sit atop hills, commanding dramatic views of the mountains and the city (or island). Hear the roar of the dinosaurs at the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Snow in the Arizona Desert A Beautiful Fairy Dusting! Hop on board the Desert Belle, a restored sightseeing vessel with spectacular views of the desert landscape. Dolly Steamboat offers sightseeing and dinner cruises on Canyon Lake, just outside the greater Phoenix area. The views are fantastic. ), http://www.groupon.com/deals/dolly-steamboat-3. Selections come from Hawaii, Alaska, the Gulf of Mexico, Chesapeake Bay, Boston, Georges Bank, and even New Zealand. About - Desert Belle Cruises Thanks! Pro Tips: Please visit their website or call to find out if they are welcoming dining-only guests. Relax in air-conditioned comfort on one of her 80 minute narrated cruises and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls and dramatic desert vistas. The breakfast was exceptional! This is the perfect spot for both Arizona residents and out-of-town guests. Where to See WILDFLOWERS (especially POPPIES) in Arizona 2023! He did a great job explaining the history of the lake, Arizona, and the animals that live there. Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been plowing the waters of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. Late one afternoon while he was down on the beach playing with the waves, he noticed an inflatable boat that had been pulled up on the beach. pl.src = 'https://beacon.sojern.com/pixel/p/216662?f_v=v6_js&p_v=1&' + paramsArr.join('&'); Fabulous band onboard, "Southwest Surfers (but I understand they use different bands on different days). At first we were very dissapointed with our obstructed view. The Dolly Steamboat was patiently waiting to take her first group of passengers out for a nature tour on Canyon Lake. If you love to try new things, head to Tortilla Flat's Dolly Steamboat, AZ and experience something new and exciting. Dolly Steamboat or Desert Belle? Web up to 4% cash back the mammoth steak house. Astronomy Cruise is once a month. Awesome tip on the Groupon. })(); Saguaro Lake Cruises. The actual boat part of it is similar enough to me that is doesn't make any difference. Scenic Nature Cruise on Canyon Lake | Dolly Steamboat Save Any opinions on which is the better tour, Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake, or Desert Belle on Saguaro? 14 years ago Save Any opinions on which is the better tour, Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake, or Desert Belle on Saguaro? Experience the unique ambiance that is created by the sounds of plying through the waters of Canyon Lake. Active now! While we marveled at the scenery, Buddy enjoyed the new smells. Pro Tip: Salt Cellar has also pioneered the twin happy hour concept, serving discounted cocktails and classic appetizers that include shrimps, oysters, clams, mussels, and crab cakes. Starting April 17th there will be road construction on Highway 88. Depends on what you plan to do with the rest of your day. Years ago we rode on the Desert Belle on Saguaro Lake and absolutely loved it. 13 mi from Dolly Steamboat. I bought one - we are going next week. 33 N Hobson APT B, Mesa, AZ 85203 | Zillow We have been on the Dolly steamboat twice. We offer narrated nature cruises, twilight dinner cruises and astronomy cruises. It's Also about Inner Ones, is a collection of her most widely-read blog posts and articles. Hmmmm a boat ride might be pretty fun! Ride the old fashioned Dolly Steamboat through the slot canyon at Canyon Lake and then hit the Apache Trail through the Sonora Desert on this tour from the Phoenix area. This simple little boat ride is a definite must do if you like the desert and want a scenic outing. Take a Mark Twain voyage and admire the breathtaking scenery as you enjoy a presentation on the solar system with Dr. Sky. Absolutely loved it. Janet & Steve. *Please confirm with local operator. This past week we took a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. Restaurant stop was good too, cute place and good food. How does the Desert Belle compare? Unfortunately, the brutal summer months often make outdoor activities like hiking impossible. On Holland. While we were camped in our RV on Canyon Lake, our new puppy Buddy loved going down on the beach, especially during our early morning photo sessions. Tonto National Monument AZ Workamping with the Ancients! We have a coupon for both so we might just try the Desert Belle this time. The only downside is the cramped seating. Thank you!! This is the perfect spot for local residents and out-of-town guests of all ages. 16 km from the Dolly Steamboat. Very knowledgeable tour guide. Across Arizona Tours, LLC is not responsible for viewing conditions at the sites visited and reserves the right to alter tour itineraries due to road or weather conditions. Curious about the world she missed while stressing out working, she migrated to the U.S., ended up an adjunct professor and small business counselor while babysitting her grandson during the day. Although you may think the air conditioned lower deck is the best option, the covered outdoor deck (or simply standing) will provide you with the best possible views. They have starlit dinner cruises too! var cidParams = []; per night. Desert Belle - Saguaro Lake. Take a 90-minute guided cruise through a slot canyon on an old-fashioned steamboat. Thanks again for a wonderful post. Copyright 2008-2023 Emily FaganAll rights reserved. Saguaro Lake Marina | Mesa, AZ | Home We have been on the Dolly steamboat twice. We enjoyed Erics knowledge of the history of the area we visited We also enjoyed the desert walk and discovered plants we never knew about. The Desert Belle operates Under Permit From the USDA Tonto National Forest. Saguaro Lake On the Waterfront in Phoenix. Frank was very informative and made our trip memorable! Please use Highway 88 from Apache Junction to access Canyon Lake Marina.**. Copper Mines, NOT CAMPING, in Tonto National Forest Why? Where: The Dolly Steamboat, 16802 Arizona 88, Tortilla Flat. We are for sure going again . pl.type = 'text/javascript'; So join us on the Dolly Steamboat for an unforgettable "mini-Arizona vacation" and see for yourself why there's nothing quite like a ride on Arizona's Dolly Steamboat. Tours depart between 8:00 am and 9:00 am and . We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. But Salt Cellars offerings also change, featuring seasonal fish throughout the year. A steamboat ride definitely seemed like it would be a lot of fun to do together. Adding a business to Yelp is always free. Click here to Learn more about scenic nature cruise, Click here to Learn more about twilight dinner cruise, Click here to Learn more about astronomy dinner cruise, Click here to Learn more about game & fish bighorn sheep cruise, Click here to Learn more about all cruises, Click here to Learn more about directions, Click here to Learn more about area attractions, Click here to Learn more about private charters, Click here to Learn more about gift certificates, View the majestic desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other wildlife, waterfowl. RV Solar Upgrade with Renogy and Go Power ! (function () { The 2 deck boat features a covered upper deck, air conditioned lower deck, and a cash snack and drink bar. The Desert Belle seats passengers on two levels. I really enjoyed this post. The steamboat tour was amazing, beautiful scenery and Rock formations. If you are traveling through the eastern side of Phoenix, Arizona, and have an afternoon or evening to spare, take a ride on the Dolly Steamboat. The Dolly Steamboat was better than expected, great views. Finally, after about an hour and a half of gliding through the desert on glassy water, it was time to head back in to shore. Both are nice relaxing scenic boat rides that you will enjoy. This tour will take you into the desert, through the mountains, and then over Canyon Lake by Dolly Steamboat. Can I go on that boat ride now?. My husband was so happy we made it in time to get the lone table for two beside the mini-waterfall. 8:30 am to 5 pm. We have several models of new boats available for sale as well as a variety of Pre-Ownedmore, I do this cruise many times a year with friends, neighbors and relatives.more, You can request a quote from this business, our cruising itinerary for another year, my daughter surprised us at Christmas with a cruise.more, Make no mistake, this is a booze cruise and is not family friendly. If anyone is interested, there is a Groupon for the Dolly Steamboat. Listen as your captain recounts the legends and lore of the mysterious Superstition Mountains. That is, until she met her travel partner on the internet! Desert Belle Vs Dolly Steamboat Canyon Lake Cruises in Arizona | Dolly's Steamboat One of the best tours we took while visiting Phoenix. The lower level is partially air-conditioned and has a snack bar and two restrooms. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Try this quick fix! We'll be spending a day along Apache trail with 3 little kids (1,3,6)and elderly uncle during our 3 day stay in Mesa. One such cruise is the Desert Belle that plies around Saguaro Lake. Bald eagles, desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, deer, and bobcats are all known to make Saguaro Lake their home. Great afternoon and well worth the money. Waterton Shoreline Cruise A Classy Tour of Waterton-Glacier NP. The sunset and waterfall views also look awesome. Oh, those beautiful mountains and cactus! The following year, my husband brought me back for a magical 10th-anniversary lunch. Our guide, Hon was a knowledgeable, considerate, fun guide who drove like a limo driver. the Dolly Steamboat (Tortilla Flat) - All You Need to - Tripadvisor You are turning around at Tortilla Flats if you're going soon, right? Carol retired as a CEO for pioneering IT companies in the Philippines. There are also two glass-enclosed wine vaults with more than 600 wine bottles, including many rare South American varieties. Dolly Steamboat & Saguaro Lake Ranch: January 26: Allied Tours: Verde Canyon & Grand Canyon Railraods: February 2-3: Free Spirit Vacations: Dolly Steamboat: February 8 . Nature walk was fun and interesting. Well worth the money for this tour, the views alone are breathtaking! About. Narration Cruise - Desert Belle Cruises the Dolly Steamboat: No consideration for guests - See 1,477 traveller reviews, 849 candid photos, and great deals for Tortilla Flat, AZ, at Tripadvisor. As riders listen to the narration from the shaded upper deck or air-conditioned lower deck, they can visually bask in cactus-studded desert vistas. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. They only served hotel guests during COVID times. Desert Belle Cruises 2019 All Rights Reserved. During this one-and-a-half-hour, six-mile cruise, you may see desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other animals and local wildlife viewed from the decks of the Dolly! We even saw lambs! 1. We have been to Arizona quite a lot, and didn't even know about this tour! Desert Belle Cruises. When you descend the antique wooden three flights of stairs to the select tables below, you will be welcomed into a world far removed from the desert. Board the Dolly Steamboat for sightseeing & dinner cruises on Canyon Lake in Tortilla Flat, Arizona. Guests are seated accordingly to order of arrival, so if you get there last you may be stuck with more views of the staircase than the beautiful lake (as in our case). Experience the magnificence of both desert beauty and natural wildlife of one of the Valley's hidden treasures . Climb on board for a trip around the secluded inner waterways. Enjoyed it very much. A group of kids in front of us eagerly waited for Dolly to come in from her last excursion. Quote: Originally Posted by DetroitN8V. Canyon Lake is a beautiful big, blue lake in the middle of the desert, and we had been getting lots of photos of it from the shore as we drove up and down the Apache Trail. All you need is. Also note that creekside dining may not be available during the winter months. Many households had cooks in Manila, where I grew up, so I never really learned how to cook there. Dolly Steamboat floats through the Sonoran Desert on Canyon Lake in Arizona. Our guide Frank was excellent. There are several cruise companies in the area, Dolly Steamboat being one of your options. The many beaches come alive around these lakes, especially the great Lake Havasu where the UK's London Bridge was . You know that the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? A tour of fresh fish and seafood from around the world begins with the whole Maine lobster (both 1.5- and 3-pound options), which they reputedly never run out of.