For more than 50 years, the Desert Belle has been cruising the waves of Saguaro Lake in Mesa. Groups can kick back and relax in air-conditioned comfort on a 90-minute narrated cruise while observing Arizona wildlife, desert vistas and canyon walls.

The Desert Belle seats 146 passengers between two levels. Narrated cruises run daily and focus on history, geography, geology and wildlife native to the Sonoran Desert, all covered by a coastguard-certified captain. The narration cruise is the most popular offered by Desert Belle Cruises, and online booking is advised to ensure availability. Groups have the chance to see bald eagles, bighorn sheep, cranes and other water fowl. Water, beer, wine and soda are available for purchase on the boat’s snack bar.

Live music cruises offer a party, and feature talented bands and musicians from the valley. The boat cruises at dusk, offering majestic views of an Arizona sunset on the water. One of the most popular groups is a Beach Boys tribute band, the Southwest Surfers. Other artists cover genres ranging from pop, rock and jazz to folk and instrumental. Wine Cruises blend live music with wine specials and incredible sunset views.

Desert Belle
Desert Belle, Mesa, Ariz.
Credit: Desert Belle

For a unique experience in the Sonoran Desert, groups can take a Lake & Land Combo Tour. Stellar Adventures and Desert Belle Cruises came together to offer a half-day excursion, giving groups an up-close look at the desert followed by a cruise on Saguaro Lake.

On this tour, groups are picked up at accommodations in a Hummer H1 and taken on a heart-pumping adventure through the desert on an off-road tour. While explaining the history of the Sonoran Desert, tour guides point out flora and fauna unique to the desert, including birds of prey, wild horses and even bobcats. After the off-road excursion, groups cruise along Saguaro Lake for the signature narration cruise on the Desert Belle.

Group rates apply for 10 or more adult passengers. Private cruises also are available.

For more information, call 480-984-2425 or visit desertbelle.com.