Soaring over 700 feet tall, the Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that has captivated visitors for generations. Now, you can experience its grandeur from a unique vantage point – the 90-minute midday sightseeing cruise on Lake Mead. Aboard a 3-level paddle-wheeler, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the dam and the surrounding landscape, learning about its historical significance through pre-recorded narration. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this cruise offers a chance to witness the true scale and power of one of America’s most iconic landmarks. What might surprise you, however, is the breathtaking scenery that lies beyond the dam’s famous façade.
Key Points
- The midday sightseeing cruise on Lake Mead lasts 90 minutes and operates on a 3-level Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler with 360-degree views.
- The cruise provides a unique perspective to admire the towering Hoover Dam and understand the region’s rich history and impressive engineering feats.
- Passengers have access to air-conditioned indoor decks with picture windows, as well as an open-air observation deck, and can enjoy the on-board bar and grill.
- A $25 pass is required to access Lake Mead and board the sightseeing cruise, which is included in the ticket price.
- Arrival 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure is recommended to purchase the pass and proceed through the security checkpoint.
Cruise Details
The midday sightseeing cruise on Lake Mead lasts 90 minutes and is operated on a 3-level Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler, providing 360-degree views from its open-air observation deck.
Passengers can enjoy the scenic surroundings from the air-conditioned indoor decks with picture windows, as well as the on-board bar and grill offering lunch and cocktails.
The cruise provides an opportunity to see the iconic Hoover Dam and the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, while also learning about the history of Lake Mead and the construction of the Hoover Dam through pre-recorded narration.
With free parking and wheelchair accessibility, this sightseeing cruise offers a convenient and informative way to experience the natural beauty of the region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Boulder City.
Boat Features
The 3-level Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler boasts an open-air observation deck that provides 360-degree views of the surroundings.
Indoors, the boat has air-conditioned decks with picture windows, allowing guests to enjoy the sights in comfort. A bar and grill on board offers lunch and cocktails, ensuring a refreshing experience.
The boat is also wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to all visitors. With these amenities, the cruise provides a comfortable and enjoyable way to explore the stunning landscapes of Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.
Sightseeing Highlights
Stunning vistas of the Hoover Dam and Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge captivate visitors during the 90-minute midday sightseeing cruise on Lake Mead.
Through the pre-recorded narration, guests learn about the historical significance and engineering marvels of these iconic landmarks that have shaped the region.
The cruise provides a unique perspective, allowing passengers to admire the towering Hoover Dam and appreciate the scale of the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge as they glide across the serene waters of Lake Mead.
This informative and visually stunning experience offers a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and the impressive feats of human engineering that have transformed the landscape.
Cruise Inclusions
The 90-minute midday sightseeing cruise on Lake Mead includes the cruise itself, pre-recorded narration, and access to both indoor and outdoor decks with air conditioning. Parking and taxes are also covered, as is the Lake Mead National Park fee.
The cruise package includes:
- A 3-level Mississippi-style paddle-wheeler with 360-degree views from the open-air observation deck.
- Air-conditioned indoor decks with picture windows for enjoying the scenery.
- A bar and grill serving lunch and cocktails.
Free parking at the meeting point in Boulder City, Nevada.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point
The meeting point for the 90-minute midday sightseeing cruise on Lake Mead is 490 Horsepower Cove in Boulder City, Nevada 89005.
Guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. This ensures they’ve enough time to check-in and board the cruise.
Visitors will need to purchase a $25 pass to access Lake Mead and the boat.
No outside food, drinks, weapons, drones, alcohol, or drugs are permitted.
The cruise operates on a strict schedule, so it’s important to arrive on time to enjoy the full 90-minute experience and take in the sights of Hoover Dam and the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
Arrival Time
Guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure they’ve enough time to check-in and board the cruise.
Once at the meeting point, visitors can expect the following:
- Check-in at the ticket booth to receive their boarding passes.
- Proceed through the security checkpoint to access the dock.
- Locate their assigned seating area and get settled on the boat.
- Take some time to explore the different levels and decks before departure.
Arriving with ample time will allow guests to comfortably embark on the 90-minute sightseeing cruise and fully enjoy the experience.
Required Pass
To access Lake Mead and board the sightseeing cruise, visitors must purchase a $25 pass.
This pass grants entry to the Lake Mead National Park, which is required for the cruise experience.
The pass ensures visitors can enjoy the full sightseeing tour, including views of the Hoover Dam and the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
Without the pass, guests wouldn’t be able to access the boat or the National Park.
The pass fee is included in the cruise ticket price, making it a convenient and necessary requirement for this activity.
Visitors should plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure to allow time to purchase the pass and board the vessel.
Prohibited Items
As part of the cruise experience, certain items are prohibited on board the vessel. These restrictions ensure a safe and enjoyable sightseeing tour for all guests.
The prohibited items include:
- Outside food and drinks
- Weapons of any kind
- Drones or other remote-controlled devices
- Alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs
Visitors can’t bring these items onto the boat. These rules are in place to maintain order, prevent disruptions, and comply with safety regulations.
Guests are encouraged to focus on the stunning views and informative narration during the 90-minute cruise along Lake Mead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?
The cruise has a casual dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. No formal attire is required. Guests should dress for a relaxed sightseeing experience on the water.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Cruise?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the cruise. The cruise line has a strict no-pets policy for the safety and comfort of all passengers. Service animals are the only exceptions permitted on board.
Is Photography Allowed During the Cruise?
Yes, photography is allowed during the cruise. Passengers can take photos from the open-air observation deck and indoor decks with picture windows to capture the scenic views and points of interest along the way.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?
There are no age restrictions for the cruise. Children of all ages are welcome to join the sightseeing tour. Families can enjoy the 90-minute cruise together and take in the scenic views of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs on the Cruise?
Yes, passengers can purchase souvenirs on the cruise. The boat has a gift shop that sells various Lake Mead and Hoover Dam-themed items, allowing guests to take home a memento of their sightseeing experience.
Recap
The Hoover Dam: 90-Minute Midday Sightseeing Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to admire the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam and the scenic beauty of Lake Mead.
With 360-degree views from the paddle-wheeler’s observation deck, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of this iconic landmark through the provided historical narration.
This cruise provides a unique and enriching sightseeing experience for all who embark on it.
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