For our ninth anniversary, my husband looked hard for a seafood place because that is my favorite, having grown up on the Philippine islands. But there is another draw to this place. Replies. Keep your eyes open for long horn sheep and eagles. We enjoyed the wildlife viewing and the short walk at the Lost Dutchman Park for plant viewing. Rainbows and Wild Horses in the Arizona Desert! Luckily, they also have a la carte menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that our budget could accommodate. Carolina Esguerra Colborn April 14, 2022 at 3:44 AM. I've heard of this tour a few times before I decided to try it. But Buddys favorite spot was a place in the shade up on deck where he got a dogs eye view. Dolly Steamboat. Lake Tours and Lake Cruises Near Mesa Arizona Many households had cooks in Manila, where I grew up, so I never really learned how to cook there. And it is not just about food. Top 10 Best Booze Cruise in Apache Junction, AZ - Yelp 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. We are using the Groupon for Gold Canyon Resort also in two weeks. Dolly Steamboat. A visit from a Filipino psychiatrist friend brought us to dine at the elegant Wrigley Mansion. Pro Tip: They have added an Astronomy Cruise Dinner that starts at 6:30 p.m. We discovered an Arizona dining experience I will never forget when we were invited to have lunch by an Australian friend. Once aboard the Dolly you may view the majestic desert big horn sheep, bald eagles and a host of . Burrowing owls in Gilbert, Arizona Theyre a Hoot! RV Solar Upgrade with Renogy and Go Power ! Get Deal. Any feedback? Peach Faced Lovebirds in Phoenix, AZ Parrots in Cactus! Photo credit: Carol Colborn Lakes. Dolly Steamboat and Apache Trail tour from Phoenix area. New to this site? For example, their Mindful Dining Experience at their Creekside Reserve Gazebo under a canopy of vines with a romantic chandelier overlooking the creek comes complete with all the trimmings you can imagine at $1,495 per couple. Hear the roar of the dinosaurs at the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Fabulous band onboard, "Southwest Surfers (but I understand they use different bands on different days). 14 years ago Save Any opinions on which is the better tour, Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake, or Desert Belle on Saguaro? Dolly first began in 1983 with Dolly and Paul Kennedy as the original owners. Desert Belle Cruises | Mesa AZ - Facebook From Phoenix: Apache Trail & Dolly Steamboat Day Trip (It expires on Sept 25. If anyone is interested, there is a Groupon for the Dolly Steamboat. Both the van driver and boat captain were very interesting narrators. Take a Mark Twain voyage and admire the breathtaking scenery as you enjoy a presentation on the solar system with Dr. Sky. 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. As music by Enya played softly over the loudspeaker, we floated past exquisite desert landscapes. The Desert Belle is a locally owned tour boat offering graceful sightseeing cruises on spectacular Saguaro Lake. document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0]).appendChild(pl); Desert Belle - Saguaro Lake. Our guide Frank was excellent. Top 10 Best Fishing Charter in Scottsdale, AZ - Yelp . Absolutely loved it. There are two free boat-in campgrounds too! Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat One-Day Van Tour from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe or Mesa . Frank, our tour guide and the scenery (Big Horned sheep). Thank you!! 280. Report inappropriate content 1-3 of 3 replies There is seating out on deck, and we found a seat at a table to take in the view. Fossil Creek Waterfall A Pretty Hike to a Scenic Cascade. This tour will take you into the desert, through the mountains, and then over Canyon Lake by Dolly Steamboat. Be alert on the way in, have a sumptuous dinner, and allow romance to fill the air on the way back. var pl = document.createElement('script'); About this activity Free cancellation Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund Duration 7 hours Check availability to see starting times. "I fished Bartlett yesterday with Larry and we caught 21 largemouth by 10am." more. Quote: Originally Posted by DetroitN8V. #8 of 61 restaurants in apache junction. . Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. })(); Saguaro Lake Cruises. Our driver, Eric, was very knowledgeable and pleasant. Apache Trail & Dolly Steamboat Van Tours | Across Arizona Tours This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. We will try the sunset cruise next time! And we loved the cruise! pl.src = 'https://beacon.sojern.com/pixel/p/216662?f_v=v6_js&p_v=1&' + paramsArr.join('&'); If you're looking for things to do outdoors, look no further. Dolly Boat trip The 2 deck boat features a covered upper deck, air conditioned lower deck, and a cash snack and drink bar. She has a BS in math, MBA, and DPA. Both are very pleasant scenic boat rides. Try this quick fix! Experience the unique ambiance that is created by the sounds of plying through the waters of Canyon Lake. However, during COVID lockdowns, Market Cafe in Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes was only open for breakfast from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m., so we decided to begin his 2021 Fathers Day celebration with a special morning meal, even if that meant waking up early. The day was relaxing and the views in Canyon Lake were spectacular! 8.6/10 Excellent! On this6-mile cruise, you may see desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other animals viewed from the decks of the Dolly! Do you have meal plans or are you taking a picnic? The boat ride was peaceful and accentuated the unusual landscape. Ive been really really good for days. Copy, reproduction or use of text or images is not permitted without written permission from the author or photographer. There are also two glass-enclosed wine vaults with more than 600 wine bottles, including many rare South American varieties. We had observed the booze cruisemore, addition, the so called sunset cruise was a booze cruise, and he did not warn anyone that theremore. You'll often see Bighorn Sheep, Bald Eagles and other wildlife as you cruise the waters of Canyon Lake. A must do on any adventure. It was a great tour we would do it again. Well gosh, hes wriggled his sweet little furry self right into the center of our lives!! Happy Trails!! Dead Horse Ranch State Park + Tuzigoot and Clarkdale. We really enjoyed our drive on the Apache Trail. The food on the windstar was incredible. Kids wait for the Dolly Steamboat to arrive at the dock. 20 Best Boat Tours in Arizona - triumphboats.com This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers. 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. What we had for lunch then is no longer on the menu today since Executive Chef Franck Desplechin and Pastry Chef Morgan Gurney often introduce exciting new internationally inspired dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. If you're also going to Lost Dutchman State Park (remember there's an entrance fee) and Tortilla Flat, I'd definitely go on the Dolly otherwise you'd have a very long day. Fall Color in Arizonas Sonoran Desert near Roosevelt Lake, Arizonas Stunning Apache Trail Scenic Drive, A Majestic Scenic Drive in Arizona The Bush Highway. Carol maintains a blog, Carolina: Cruising Past 70, and has published two travel books: Carolina: Cruising to an American Dream about her RVing years and Cruising Past Seventy: It's Not Only About Outer Journeys. Hop on board the Desert Belle, a restored sightseeing vessel with spectacular views of the desert landscape. Tonto National Monument AZ Lower Cliff Dwellings. If this happens, we will direct you to a different pick up location. 12,944 were here. It frowns on hats, tank tops, shorts, flip-flops, and branded sportswear. How does the Desert Belle compare? . However, we decided just to stand outside the entire journey, which provided us with the best views. Thank you for letting us know you enjoy seeing Buddys little mug and antics!!! A group of kids in front of us eagerly waited for Dolly to come in from her last excursion. February 2018 One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona is to take a boat ride on one of the lakes around Phoenix. Fully refundable Reserve now, pay when you stay. Decorated as a snug seaside hideaway, this dining place is located below ground on the posh side of the valley, in upscale Scottsdale. My husband thought it was good enough for our 11th-anniversary dinner. Stay in the loop and travel with us! Tour Boat near Mesa, AZ. Bald eagles, desert bighorn sheep, wild horses, deer, and bobcats are all known to make Saguaro Lake their home. Continuing a tradition of cruising since 1925, the Dolly Steamboat now cruises the secluded inner waterways of this beautiful lake. Ride in your choice of an air-conditioned cabin or shaded open-air top deck, with great . Overview. Beat the heat on our climate controlled lower and upper decks. #16 of 59 Restaurants in Apache Junction. Both are very pleasant scenic boat rides. On Holland. Frank was a knowledgeable and accommodating tour guide and the group was fun! With a capacity of 140 passengers, the Dolly Steamboat offers delightful sunset dinner cruises as well as daily scenic tours whereas the skipper narrates and recounts legendary tales of yore. Our tour guide was very helpful and friendly, and the food at tortilla flats was very good. As the Desert Belle boat cruises leisurely, guides point out various flora, fauna, and extraterrestrials disguised as Arizona wildlife dotting the landscape. Great guide. PS- Will yall be coming back this way anytime this year? The guide was excellent!! The tour was amazing despite of the rain. Rent a pontoon boat, or take a relaxing Desert Belle tour boat ride around the lake, then eat at the ShipRock Restaurant. Was informative and interesting Throughout the tour he would point out animals and we were able to see a few bald eagles! Experience the unique ambiance that is created by the sounds of plying through the waters of Canyon Lake. You just cannot go wrong. If you want to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening looking at the beautiful flora and fauna of the lower Sonoran Desert, consider a cruise on the secluded inner waterways of the Junior Grand Canyon on Canyon Lake. Boat Tours & Cruises Near Scottsdale Arizona (az) the Dolly Steamboat: No consideration for guests - See 1,477 traveller reviews, 849 candid photos, and great deals for Tortilla Flat, AZ, at Tripadvisor. Thanks! Pro Tips: Please visit their website or call to find out if they are welcoming dining-only guests. Loved the tour guide and his explanations of the plants. And Chef Dahl creates a unique South American-inspired cuisine thats informed by her travels to Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile. Luckily, her schoolmate pediatrician friend was a member, and he invited her for dinner there and the invite was extended to include us, her hosts! It's Also about Inner Ones, is a collection of her most widely-read blog posts and articles. The Dolly Steamboat is a family run business that provides outstanding cruise experiences on Canyon Lake in Arizona. Where: The Dolly Steamboat, 16802 Arizona 88, Tortilla Flat. 6 Unique Dining Experiences In Arizona | TravelAwaits This thread is great. Fantastic views offered at a fairly affordable price. Dolly Steamboat - Gliding Through the Arizona Desert on Canyon Lake Here's some of the GEAR we use and great IDEAS for you! --Emily & Mark Fagan, traveling by land and sea since 2007. Canyon Lake turns out to be a lot bigger than it seems from the Apache Trail. We have come to define a good dining experience as something unique, not just because of the food but also because of the place. The actual boat part of it is similar enough to me that is doesn't make any difference. All this beauty inspired us to have an anniversary photoshoot. The Desert Belle Tour Boat offers 80 minute cruises describing the history, geography, geology and w Desert Belle Cruises | Mesa AZ Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been cruising the waters of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. Neither one stands out above the other IMO. Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been plowing the waters of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. We have been on the Dolly steamboat twice. Frank, our guide, did a great job with some interesting stories about the history of the area. I agree. Saguaro Lake On the Waterfront in Phoenix. /* Please do not modify the below code. |, 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. This level is also handicap accessible. He did a great job explaining the history of the lake, Arizona, and the animals that live there. The big horned sheep were well represented. Alternatively, you may use, Apache Junction Hotels and Places to Stay. (509 reviews) "The property is well maintained and very clean. Roads Less Traveled is a participant in the Amazon Services Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn money by advertising and linking to amazon.com. The Best Hotels Closest to Dolly Steamboat in Phoenix for 2023 - Expedia Please allow extra time to get to the lake. Awesome tip on the Groupon. You will be amazed at its grand, sweeping staircase, fabulous first-class decor, and even a vintage telephone system. They are only open for dinner and are closed on Tuesdays. Enjoy 90 Minute Narrated Cruises or Live Music Cruises aboard The Desert Belle Tour Boat on Saguaro Lake in Mesa, AZ. Report inappropriate content 1-7 of 7 replies Sorted by 1 Janss Sedona, AZ Destination Expert for Sedona Level Contributor 3,374 posts 8 reviews 10 helpful votes 1. Dolly Steamboat, 16802 Highway 88, Tortilla Flat, AZ - Groupon Luckily, he got a reservation at one that has made best of seafood lists in the Phoenix Metropolitan area since 1971. All prices subject to change. Great job and well done! Get Directions It was only approx an hour drive from Phoenix and well worth it. Great tour and good to get away from the city and to learn more about the areas history and people. Great pics, Em. In terms of scenic outdoor adventures in the Phoenix area, hiking is the way to go. Enjoyed it very much. Live music is offered every weekend and features some of the most talented musicians in Arizona. Craft Beer cruises are offered Fridays in the months of October-June. Both are nice relaxing scenic boat rides that you will enjoy. They have starlit dinner cruises too! The choice of places to go and the overall plan of the tour is good. What a wonderful day trip! Saguaro Lake Marina | Mesa, AZ | Home We talked about doing a boat ride on the Dolly Steamboat over dinner. Wine cruises are offered Wednesdays in the months October-June. :-) Reply Delete. var paramsArr = []; We drove down the Apache rail and took a tour on the Desert Belle on the Saguaro Lake instead and had a GREAT experience. Hmmmm a boat ride might be pretty fun! It's geared for college kids. 1. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Seen from our truck window on the Apache Trail (Route 88), Canyon Lake doesnt look all that big. 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. Hes been getting lots of hugs and love from a whole host of beautiful young girls and he doesnt seem to mind one bit that he now smells like a 13 year old girl. Past Tours - DFishTours.com Pro Tip: Availability is tight for months in advance, and COVID capacity restrictions may still be in place, so call for reservations. About. 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. This place is sure to be a fun experience for the whole family! Buddy sure looks like a good boy and seems to really be enjoying his new life. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. 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! This offer will be removed in 60s. The Dolly Steamboat: Sightseeing and Dinner Steamboat Cruises in Tortilla Flat, Arizona. The large windows and open aft decks provide great vantage points for viewing the wildlife and scenery. On this cruise you will see towering canyon walls, dramatic desert vistas and desert wildlife. Not sure if that one is still available. We had such a peaceful day on the Lake. Offering tours to all of the "must see" destinations in Arizona. Unfortunately, the brutal summer months often make outdoor activities like hiking impossible. Ride a van through the Sonora Desert, a rare desert environment found in the American Southwest and Mexico. He slept right through the enormous rising full moon! View the majestic desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other wildlife, waterfowl, and birds. I highly recommend this tour. Selections come from Hawaii, Alaska, the Gulf of Mexico, Chesapeake Bay, Boston, Georges Bank, and even New Zealand. I bought one - we are going next week. Learn about Arizona's local culture on this fun, informative tour. A stop for out of towners. My sister even said that she enjoyed this tour more than our visit to the Grand Canyon! Desert Belle, 14011 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ - Groupon Starting April 17th there will be road construction on Highway 88. If its too hot on deck, theres a cool spot in the cabin with big picture windows. The Desert Belle is a locally owned tour boat offering graceful sightseeing cruises on spectacular Saguaro Lake. Continuing a tradition of cruising since 1925, the Dolly Steamboat now cruises the secluded inner waterways of this beautiful lake. The Dolly Steamboat, Tortilla Flat Dolly is a steamboat that sails the Canyon Lake in the heart of Superstition Mountains. It would be a mistake to visit the Phoenix area and not take time to enjoy the amazing Sonoran desert, home to the beautifully unique Saguaro Cactus. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Subscribe If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experiences start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded. DESERT BELLE CRUISES - 447 Photos & 258 Reviews - Yelp You will love it! params.cid = cid.join('|'); 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. After the wedding ceremony, they honeymooned for eight years in an RV to 49 states, nine Canadian provinces, and six Mexican states. About - Desert Belle Cruises Where to See WILDFLOWERS (especially POPPIES) in Arizona 2023! Expect to be treated with outstanding service and personal attention to your every need. We were startled at how rugged and dramatic the rock canyons were. Beat the heat on our climate controlled lower and upper decks. Along the 1 hour and a half cruise, you will take in great views of Canyon lake, along with the Superstition Mountains and various rock formations. The pics are really nice, as usual. Learned lots & saw lots! This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. This past week we took a ride on the Dolly Steamboat on Canyon Lake. Theres Geordies Restaurant and Lounge, Jamies Wine Bar, and the recently opened Christophers in an adjacent glass building (a replacement of sorts as the original at the airport was closed due to COVID).