hoover dam boat trip

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Breathtaking Views for Everyone

Every tour with Lake Mead Cruises offers passengers spectacular views of Lake Mead and the breathtaking scenery surrounding it. Photographers will love the colorful landscapes, ever-changing skies, and unrivaled panoramic views. The breathtaking landmarks include Fortification Hill (an extinct volcano), the Arizona Paint Pots and their wonderland of color, and the magnificent Hoover Dam. An unforgettable sight and marvel of engineering, Hoover Dam stands a majestic 726 feet high and is an incredible 660 feet wide at its base.

Lake Mead Cruises’ professional photographers are ready to take your picture just prior to your excursion. The photos are available at the conclusion of your tour at no obligation. If you choose to purchase the photo, for $20 you receive: one 6 x 8 print in a Lake Mead Cruises photo folder and one 4 x 6 print in a keepsake glass photo frame. There’s no better way to remember your special tour.

For groups of 20 or more or private cruises, please email [email protected] .

For further questions regarding Lake Mead Cruises, please call 866.292.9191 or Contact Us .

Desert Princess is a three-level paddle-wheeler certified by the U.S. Coast Guard with ample outdoor deck space to take photographs and videos and a smooth ride, the Desert Princess makes for an unforgettable Lake Mead experience.

Mid-Day Sightseeing Cruise

Plenty of sunshine and refreshing breezes are yours to enjoy while you take in the breathtaking sights.

Join us on beautiful Lake Mead for a charming combination of cruising, sightseeing and a traditional American style buffet breakfast.

Dine under the stars on Lake Mead. The Dinner Cruise offers delightfully cooler temperatures and calm, glassy waters.

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EXPLORE THE WORLD-FAMOUS HOOVER DAM

Hoover dam tours.

The Hoover Dam is a world–famous concrete arch–gravity dam that is located 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas on the border between Nevada and Arizona. It impounds the mighty Colorado River in the Black Canyon .

The dam was designated a National Historic Landmark by congress in 1985. More than 8 million people a year visit the dam and many take Hoover Dam tours.

A Hoover Dam tour is a great way to take in this architectural and engineering marvel. The dam is 726 feet tall and nearly a 1/4–mile long. It is 660 feet wide at its base and has enough concrete to build thousands of miles of interstate.

Dam History

The dam was built in a five–year period between 1931 and 1936. Building the dam was perilous. Nearly one hundred workers perished in the construction of the dam.

The dam created beautiful Lake Mead , which is a massive reservoir north of dam. Lake Mead is very popular for water sports. The Bureau of Reclamation of the United States Department of the Interior operates the dam.

There is much more than just the dam to explore at the Hoover Dam. The dam has interesting architecture, memorials, sculptures, and historical features. On the Nevada side, there is also a massive power generation station.

a Great place to visit for all

Photo opportunities abound in every direction. To the north are the beautiful blue waters of Lake Mead. To the south, 726 feet below lies the scenic Black Canyon of the Colorado River , where rafting trips are offered.

To the south now also lies the Mike O'Callahan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, also known as the Hoover Dam Bypass .

On the the east side of the Hoover Dam is the state of Arizona and to the west is state of Nevada. Desert mountains flank both sides of the Colorado River near the dam.

The state line is in the middle of the dam and there are intake towers on each side with clocks on them indicating "Nevada time" and "Arizona time" as the time zone changes on the state line.

Tour the Dam

If you are traveling to Las Vegas, one of the United States' most popular travel destinations, experiencing Hoover Dam tours is a must. It is one of the top sightseeing attractions in the Las Vegas area.

A variety of different types of Hoover Dam tours are offered. Most tour companies operate out of Las Vegas and will pick visitors up from their hotels. Visitors can take private tours, group tours, bus tours, helicopter tours, or airplane tours of the dam.

Tours can typically be either a half–day or full day, or just a few hours if you take a helicopter tour. If you would like to stay near the dam, the nearest town is Boulder City , Nevada, eight miles to the west.

Touring Hoover Dam is an experience that visitors will not soon forget!

Touring Hoover Dam and the surrounding area by bus is a fun, flexible, lower cost way to take it all in.

HELICOPTER TOUR

Seeing the Dam with a 360 degree view by helicopter is an amazing spectacle that'll be a life-long memory.

With a Hoover Dam boat tour, you get a beautiful, relaxed, unique visitor experience.

AIRPLANE TOUR

Airplane tours are a great way to explore the dam and the Lake Mead area from above it all.

STAY & EXPLORE

Fantastic Boating, great views of desert landscapes, and the largest reservoir in the U.S. are just a few of the reasons to explore Lake Mead.

Dozens of high rise casinos-hotels, world-famous shows, restaurants and shopping, and sunny skies await in America's modern adult playground.

BOULDER CITY

Boulder City is up the hill eight miles, about 1400 feet higher than Hoover Dam. Find out what this appealing, slightly cooler, gateway city offers.

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Lake Mead Cruise & Hoover Dam Tour

  bookings are closed until further notice , breathtaking views of lake mead & the hoover dam.

View the impressive Hoover Dam from two states and descend inside the Dam to see the massive generators on the Hoover Dam Discovery Tour before boarding the Desert Princess for a 90 minute cruise of Lake Mead.

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• Description
• Tour Features

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead Tour Highlights

• Complimentary hotel pickup and hotel return
• Approximately 1.5 hours to explore the Hoover Dam
• Hoover Dam Discovery Tour included
• Breathtaking 90 minute paddlewheel boat cruise on Lake Mead
• Complimentary lunch served onboard the Desert Princess
• Visit Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory and Botanical Gardens
• Air-conditioned luxury motorcoaches with panoramic windows designed specially for sightseeing

Travel by motorcoach through Las Vegas towards Boulder City, Nevada en route to Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Keep your eyes peeled for views of picturesque Lake Mead in the distance!

Your Lake Mead and Hoover Dam Experience

The  Hoover Dam will be your first stop. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore the Hoover Dam and take the Hoover Dam Discovery Tour (included in the price of your tour), which features a guided tour of Hoover Dam visitor center and the impressive generator room on the Nevada side of the Dam. After your tour, head outside for unsurpassed views of the Hoover Dam. You can even walk between Nevada and Arizona to view the Dam from two states!

Next, you’ll head to the Lake Mead Cruises landing and board the Desert Princess, a 300-passenger paddlewheel boat featuring two climate-controlled enclosed decks, as well as an open sun deck. Enjoy a delicious complimentary lunch on board and relax on a 90 minute cruise of the peaceful blue waters of spectacular Lake Mead, complete with a rare lake view of the Hoover Dam.

Upon your return to the Landing, you will re-board your luxury motorcoach for your return to Las Vegas, with a stop at famous Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory and Botanical Gardens on your way.

Please Note: This tour is seasonal and only operates February-November. Comfortable clothing and footwear is advised on all of our tours.

Hoover Dam Discovery Tour

Your Lake Mead Cruise and Hoover Dam Tour includes the Hoover Dam Discovery Tour. This tour gives you access to the Hoover Dam Visitor Centre, a movie featuring the history of Hoover Dam, scheduled presentations by professional guides, and balcony level view of power plant.

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Why book with us.

• Locally owned & operated
• Highest-rated tour agency
• Open 7 days a week
• Tours operate 365 days a year
• Free pickup on the Vegas Strip
• Full-day or half-day tours

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Lake mead cruise & hoover dam tour, tour length: about 7.5 hours (hotel to hotel), tour departs: 10:00am - monday, wednesday and saturday, please note.

• Limited seats are available at these prices! Price includes tax and fees (fuel surcharge may apply).
• Tour reservations made less than 24 hours before pickup time cannot be guaranteed. If we are unable to fit your group in due to late booking, you will receive a full refund.
• This tour requires payment on the day of booking and has a 48-hour cancellation policy.
• Tour itinerary and its components are subject to change at any time without notice for reasons that may include inclement weather conditions, FAA restrictions, and/or any other unforeseen occurrences. 
• Refunds will not be granted due to delays.
• Children over age 2 pay adult rate (unless indicated). Children under age 2 are free!

* Tour Date

* passenger names.

• $109 per person – 10:00am

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The 5 best hoover dam tours from las vegas (2024).

Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour.

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

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If you're planning what to see and do in Las Vegas , you may be considering a day trip to the Hoover Dam – the National Historic Landmark that diverts water from the Colorado River to various corners of the southwestern United States. Authorized by President Calvin Coolidge in 1928, the dam took around five years to build. At the time of its completion in 1935, dam workers used 6.6 million tons of concrete, more than 5 million barrels of cement and 45 million pounds of steel.

Tours of the facility are available on-site and include access to the power plant and the dam's tunnels. However, independent tour companies – many of which depart from Las Vegas – also make stops at the dam. Many of the Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas include additional experiences, such as a stop at the Las Vegas welcome sign or the Seven Magic Mountains public art installation.

Considering both traveler sentiment and expert input, U.S. News selected the best Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas.

Comedy on Deck Tours – Hoover Dam Ultimate VIP Tour

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $80 Duration: 7 hours

Guides double as stand-up comedians on this Hoover Dam bus tour. In addition to round-trip transportation from your Las Vegas Strip hotel and a dedicated driver, this full-day tour includes a 45-minute walk across the top of the dam, the chance to see interior generators and learn how they work, and a sit-down lunch at a local restaurant. Plus, you'll stop at the iconic Las Vegas welcome sign for a photo-op and drive through historic Boulder City, Nevada. Tourists call it a great way to spend a day thanks to the entertaining and talented guides and the manageable pace of the tour.

This tour departs daily between 7:25 and 8:20 a.m., depending on your hotel's location along the Strip. The company also offers a Grand Canyon West tour that departs from Las Vegas.

Check prices & availability on:

Gray Line Las Vegas – Half Day Hoover Dam from Las Vegas Tour

Price: From $72 Duration: 4.5 hours

An ideal option if you're short on time, this half-day Hoover Dam tour operated by Gray Line Las Vegas promises round-trip transportation from the Strip to the dam, plenty of photo opportunities and two hours to explore at the dam. During the excursion, you'll also enjoy access to the dam museum and visitor center, as well as a guided tour of the power plant. Plus, the tour includes time for a photo-op at the famous Las Vegas welcome sign. Reviewers rave about the views seen along the tour and the entertaining, informative guides. Travelers also say this is a convenient, affordable tour for visitors based in Las Vegas.

Two departures are available daily at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Gray Line also offers tours to see the Grand Canyon .

Pink Adventure Tours – Hoover Dam Tour

Price: Adults from $119; kids from $109 Duration: 4 hours

Take in views of Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam and the Colorado River on this small-group tour that's capped at 10 participants. You'll get picked up from your Las Vegas hotel in one of the company's air-conditioned "Tour Trekker" vehicles, which features oversized windows, leather captain's chairs and an onboard audio system so you can easily hear the commentary from your driver, who doubles as your guide. Along your drive to the dam, you'll learn about the Mojave Desert, as well as early mining in the area and housing for dam workers. Upon reaching the dam, you'll enjoy 360-degree views from the observation deck before descending to the Power Plant. Guides from the Bureau of Reclamation will take you through the inspection tunnels and the generator room. Most reviewers give this tour high marks, praising the knowledgeable, entertaining tour guides, the comfortable vehicles and the small group size. Travelers also said this is a good option for visitors who do not want to devote an entire day to seeing the Hoover Dam.

Take your pick between an 8 a.m. or 1 p.m. departure. Pink Adventure Tours also offers tours of Red Rock Canyon and the Strip.

MaxTour – Hoover Dam Walk On Top Tour with Seven Magic Mountains

Price: From $80 Duration: 5 hours

You'll see more than just the Hoover Dam on this jam-packed outing. After being picked up from your Las Vegas hotel, you'll stop at the Las Vegas welcome sign to snap some photos before heading to Seven Magic Mountains, a public art installation by Ugo Rondinone that features a collection of colorful stacked boulders. Next up is a walking tour across the Hoover Dam and the Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Along the way, your guide will make bonus stops at some of their favorite "hidden gem" spots. Participants laud the knowledgeable guides, who reviewers say make the experience fun and memorable. Others appreciated the guides' willingness to take photos for them, and their many restaurant recommendations.

Tours, which are capped at 14 people, are offered Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 8 a.m. The company also operates tours that combine a visit to the Hoover Dam with a stop at the Grand Canyon.

Mr. Las Vegas – Hoover Dam Mini Tour

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $65 Duration: 3 hours

If you don't want to devote an entire day to seeing the Hoover Dam, consider this "mini" small-group tour operated by Mr. Las Vegas. It includes round-trip transportation from the Strip in a 14-person vehicle, a drive through Boulder City, and stops at Lake Mead and Hemenway Park (known for its herds of wild big horn sheep). You'll also enjoy plenty of panoramic views and photo-ops at the Hoover Dam, including at the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Bridge. Reviewers praise the length of the tour and applaud the guides for their informative, engaging delivery. They also admired the views to and from the dam.

Hoover Dam tours are available twice-daily at 8 a.m. and noon. Note that tour lengths may stretch to four hours based on where you are picked up or dropped off on the Strip. Mr. Las Vegas also operates tours that combine a visit to the Hoover Dam with a stop at Seven Magic Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

The length of a Hoover Dam tour depends on which one you select; the Bureau of Reclamation offers two. If you opt for the Guided Power Plant Tour, it takes about 30 minutes. The Guided Dam Tour lasts about one hour. A tour with an independent company – which provides round-trip transportation from Las Vegas and may stop at other locales – will likely last several hours.

Yes, you can see the Hoover Dam without a tour. The exterior of the dam is open to visitors daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can take a self-guided tour of the visitor center for $10, which includes access to the center's exhibits and access to the observation deck and Original Exhibit Building. You can also view parts of the Hoover Dam for free from the pedestrian plaza, which features panoramic views of the Colorado River, Lake Mead and the dam. However, if you'd like to see the historic construction tunnels, walk through the inspection tunnels or take a tour of the power plant, you'll need to purchase tickets for one of the guided tours.

To avoid crowds, plan your visit to the Hoover Dam on a weekday. According to the Bureau of Reclamation, the least busy times for tours are 9 to 11 a.m. and 2:30 to 3:45 p.m.

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Hoover Dam Luxury Limo Van and Lake Mead Cruise Tour on the Desert Princess

Home > Tours > Hoover Dam Luxury Limo Van and Lake Mead Cruise Tour on the Desert Princess

Discover the awe-inspiring Hoover Dam and breathtaking Lake Mead aboard a captivating paddle wheeler boat reminiscent of the Mississippi style! Immerse yourself in each location for a delightful 90 minutes, relishing the serene and refreshing waters of Lake Mead. Indulge in a delectable deli-style meal served aboard the splendid Desert Princess. Embark on an unforgettable adventure, combining natural beauty and gastronomic pleasure. Join us now for an unforgettable experience!

• Explore the awe-inspiring Hoover Dam with an ample time of up to 90 minutes.
• Capture breathtaking photos from the scenic Nevada and Arizona look-out points, creating unforgettable memories.
• Embark on a serene 90-minute boat cruise aboard the magnificent Desert Princess, an authentic Mississippi-style Paddle Wheel Boat.
• Savor a delightful deli-style lunch with choice of Ham, Turkey, or Vegatarian.
• Enjoy a remarkable experience filled with natural wonders and culinary delights.
• Book your unforgettable journey now!
• Fees and park entry
• Children 0 - 23 Months Ride Free

Please Note

• Luxury Limo Vans are not lift capable, collapsible wheelchairs only, user must be able to enter the vehicle on their own.
• Service animals are permitted to accompany passengers, provided that proper and up-to-date documentation is presented; small oxygen tanks are also allowed
• All reservations must be confirmed no later than 24 hours before the scheduled travel date
• A 24-hour cancellation policy is in effect for all tours
• Don't be duped by other tour companies who add fees at check-out book with confidence knowing you're getting the best deal.
• Book with a brand you can trust Gray Line, the world-famous Blue Diamond.
• By choosing Gray Line you ensure that you have the best of the best at your service.

Restrictions

The following items are prohibited on our tours due to security restrictions: Luggage, Large Backpacks, Suit Cases, Briefcases, Coolers, drugs, and Alcohol. If an item has not been listed please verify with your reservations agent prior to booking.

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To contact Gray Line Las Vegas regarding inquiries or rescheduling your tour, please use the following information: Email: [email protected] Phone: 702-739-7777 or 1-877-333-6556 Please be advised that all tour itineraries are subject to alteration, and the applicable cancellation policies shall be enforced. Gray Line shall not be held liable for unforeseen delays, diminished visibility, or modifications to the itinerary resulting from traffic conditions, inclement weather, force majeure events, or mechanical malfunctions. Furthermore, should any alterations to the initial service date be requested within 24 hours of booking, a rescheduling fee will be imposed, contingent upon availability. By completing this purchase, you acknowledge and accept these terms and conditions, and comprehend that no refunds shall be granted for no-show travelers.

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One dead, one hospitalized after boat capsizes on Hoover Reservoir Sunday night

One man died and another was hospitalized after their boat capsized Sunday night on Hoover Reservoir .

The men were out fishing around 8 p.m. Sunday on the reservoir when the boat capsized, according to Genoa Township officials.

More: Mandatory life vests in Ohio? Lawmaker eyes boat safety rules after Hoover Reservoir tragedy

Fire crews managed to pull both men from the water. Both were taken to Mount Carmel St. Ann's hospital. One of the men was in critical condition and the other's condition was described as "fair," officials said.

The man who had been in critical condition died from his injuries. His name has not yet been released.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is investigating the incident.

What is Hoover Reservoir?

Hoover Reservoir, located off of Sunbury Road near Westerville, encompasses more than 4,000 acres, including a lake that is frequently used for boating and fishing.

The park also includes options for picnics, bird watching, a disc golf course and hiking. The parks spans both Delaware and Franklin counties.

Hoover Reservoir was initially built as a water supply facility in 1955 by the city of Columbus.

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This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: One dead, one hospitalized after boat capsizes on Hoover Reservoir Sunday night

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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