The thought of going on a cruise often brings to mind the open ocean, clear blue water as far as the eye can see, and international ports of call. But one of the best, most affordable, and convenient cruises is right here in the East Valley, and you don’t have to pack a bag to head out on the water.
Surrounded by Arizona’s iconic multicolored sandstone mountains, the Desert Belle cruises the waters of Saguaro Lake.
Choose from a variety of excursions, including an 80-minute tour narrated by a U.S. Coast Guard certified captain who describes the history, geology, geography, and wildlife native to Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, almost all of which you see while you enjoy the sunshine and fresh air from the wide open-air upper deck of the Desert Belle.
Plan to see bald eagles, desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, deer, and bobcats, all of which are known to make Saguaro Lake their home.
The lower deck has an open-air front deck and an enclosed lower cabin, which is climate-controlled and handicap accessible.
The cruise is perfect for guests of all ages with a gentle disembarking and graceful, relaxing tour cruising speeds. There are also two bathrooms onboard for your comfort.
The onboard walk-up snack bar features water, soda, beer, wine, and cocktails for purchase. Visa, MasterCard, or American Express are accepted at the walk-up ticket booth and snack bar. Cash is not accepted.
The narrated tour is $26 for people 13 and older and the kids can cruise for just $17.
MUSIC IS A COMMON THEME ON DESERT BELLE’S EXCURSIONS
There is a live music tour offered every weekend featuring some of the most talented musicians in Arizona. Featuring pop, jazz, and classic rock, the music tours are among the most popular options, and these cruises sell out quickly.
The Desert Belle is rapidly approaching its 60th year in operation. Originally launched in 1964, the excursion company caters to residents and out-oftown guests who don’t typically think of the desert as a place to take a cruise.
“One of the best tours we took while visiting Phoenix,” Christina F. from Chicago wrote in a passenger testimonial. “My sister even said that she enjoyed this tour more than our visit to the Grand Canyon! The views on this tour are amazing. Our tour guide was Captain John, and he was fantastic. He did a great job of explaining the history of the lake, Arizona, and the animals that live there.”
You can book your tour online for a Desert Belle excursion at desertbelle.com. The Desert Belle is located lakeside at 14011 Bush Hwy. in Mesa. You can also call (480) 984-2425 for more information.