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2024 Visitor's Guide

Maligne lake classic cruise.

by Maligne Lake Cruise

Declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada” by 8 million Reader’s Digest subscribers, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other.

Sail 14 kilometres along Maligne Lake on The Maligne Lake Cruise, past towering peaks & glaciers, to the peaceful and remarkable Spirit Island. Sit back, relax and enjoy vibrant stories from the onboard tour guide, including the history of Maligne Lake and its earliest explorers, along with the geology, glaciology, flora & fauna of the area.

Upon arrival at Spirit Island, the Maligne Lake Cruise docks and guests are able to disembark and enjoy a short nature trail leading to a viewing platform for one the best views in Jasper National Park: Maligne Lake’s Spirit Island.

• Guided Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island
• Free time at Spirit Island
• Return cruise to Home Bay

Duration: 1.5 hours

(866) 606-6700

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Maligne Rd Jasper , AB Canada T0E 1E0

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Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, glacier-fed Maligne Lake is world-renowned for its beauty and is home to the world-famous Spirit Island. Experience these iconic locations in a completely unique way.

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Is the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island Worth It?

Maligne Lake is one of the most stunning lakes in all of Canada, and embarking on a cruise here offers a front-row seat to this natural spectacle. Venture south, closer to the glaciers, and you’ll be treated to the lake’s captivating emerald hues.

While enjoying the lake from its shores is gratifying enough, there’s another way to experience this water. Enjoying a Maligne Lake cruise is on many visitors Jasper bucket lists. But what can you expect from your time on the water, just how much is the tour, and what’s all this fuss about Spirit Island? Is the Maligne Lake cruise worth the time and money? Let’s break it all down in this review.

About Maligne Lake & Spirit Island

Maligne Lake is an incredible stretch of sheer beauty, spanning 22km from the boat docks to the majestic Spirit Island and the base of the Coronet Glacier. Spirit Island, a charming peninsula, rests 14 kilometers away from the docks and is a special place for the area’s indigenous people.

Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, stretching over 22 km. This Alberta lake is impressive not only in size, but also in its average depth of 35 meters, reaching nearly 100 meters at its deepest points.

Beyond its sheer scale, Maligne Lake is also incredibly blue, and if you hit it on a beautiful summer day, its colors will shine through. Why is it so blue? Like other glacial lakes, as the melting glaciers flow into the lake, they leave behind rock flour, which, when hit by sunlight, creates the lake’s distinctive color.

When Does the Maligne Lake Cruise Run?

Cruises only run during the summer and early fall seasons, as the lake freezes over in Jasper in the winter . In 2024, cruises will run on the following dates:

It’s essential to know that this cruise is the most popular thing to do in Jasper, and cruises book up well in advance in the summer. It’s important to book ahead to avoid disappointment. You can book these tours on the Pursuit website, if the cruises are sold on, you can always try booking the same cruise on a third party platform like Viator .

Where Do the Cruises Depart From?

Cruises depart at the end of Maligne Lake Road. This is where you’ll find parking for Maligne Lake, a boat dock, a canoe house, a gift shop, and a few restaurants like The Lake House Café and Waffle Hut.

Maligne Lake Cruise Review & Overview

The Maligne Lake Cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Jasper , and for many, the reason to head to Maligne Lake. The hour-and-a-half panoramic cruise heads to Spirit Island 14 km up the lake. It’s around a half-hour to the island, where guests get 15 minutes off the boat for photos before the return journey unless they purchase a longer tour (we’ll get into that later).

Visitors are guaranteed spectacular mountain vistas while cruising across cerulean water. In fact, if you take a cruise on Maligne Lake, you may even notice that the further south on the lake you travel, the closer you get to glaciers, the more the lake shows off its stunning color!

During the cruise, a guide will tell you about the lake, its history, and its importance to the area. You’ll learn a bit about the Stoney Nakoda and the cultural significance Maligne Lake plays to them. There’s plenty of time to take in the views, and stepping outside the covered boat is possible to get some fresh air as you’re cruising.

Classic vs. Premium Cruise Offerings

Classic Cruise

Embark on a scenic 14-kilometer journey across Maligne Lake until you reach the serene and captivating Spirit Island. On this 1.5 hour tour, the knowledgeable tour guides will share vibrant stories, delving into the lake’s history, early explorers, and the region’s geology, glaciology, and diverse flora and fauna.

Upon reaching Spirit Island, the boat docks, allowing guests to disembark and follow a brief nature trail leading to a viewing platform that unveils one of the most breathtaking scenes. The Classic Cruise allows for 15 minutes of free time in the vicinity of Spirit Island.

Premium Cruise

This cruise is almost identical to the Classic Cruise cruise only difference is that you get 30 minutes total. This is to explore Spirit Island and there is an extra stop to enjoy the views at Pincushion Bay.

The Premium Cruise also runs in the evening and is the last cruise of the day. This means you’ll have the best possible light on Spirit Island as you’ll get there around Golden Hour. If you’re a photographer, we recommend booking the Premium Cruise.

Who Runs This Experience?

The cruise is run by Pursuit Adventures, the same folks who run the Lake Minnewanka Cruise in Banff , the Banff Gondola , Jasper Skywalk , and the Athabasca Glacier Experience.

Amenities Available on the Cruise

There are three types of boats that hold between 38 and 50 passengers. There are not many amenities available actually on the boat, and basically what you will find are wooden seats. Do your business beforehand because there is no bathroom on board. There is no food or drink offered on board, so eat beforehand.

How Long is the Cruise?

Classic Cruises lasts around 1.5 hours, while Premium Cruises take 2 hours, excluding the loading time. It’s advisable to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. That way, you can park, check-in, and get your tickets. If you are not there when the cruise departs, your seat is subject to being given up. The cruise has a waiting list, and peak times are booked well in advance. A $25 fee may apply to late passengers that have to be rebooked.

How Much is the Maligne Lake Cruise?

Advanced Purchase Pricing (CAD):

(Keep in mind prices are subject to fluctuate based on the time of year, as well as how soon in advance you book. If you wait until the last minute prices usually jump up).

Cruises run from May 31st – October 13, 2024.

• Classic Cruise – $82 to $85/adult and $55.25/child
• Premium Cruise – Cruise $109 to $135/adult and $87.85/child
• Pursuit Rewards Cruise (for Alberta locals): $70.00/adult and $45.90/child
• Age 5 & Under – Free if sharing a seat with adult (but they still require a ticket)
• Kids Go Free Early Bird! Receive one free child ticket for each paying adult on the 9 AM and 9:15 AM Classic Cruise.
• Pursuit Pass Jasper (Columbia Icefield Adventure – including Skywalk and Maligne Lake Cruise)$245.00/adult and $159/ child

When is the Best Time to Cruise?

July and August provide the best chance for a sunny day in the Rockies, though it’s mountain weather, and you never know what can happen here! Cruises start running at 9 a.m., and because mornings on the water are some of the calmest (and our favorite), we recommend purchasing a tour as early as possible. This will also still give you excellent morning light on Spirit Island.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

Their facilities are accessible to standard wheelchairs in most cases. However, they have a limited supply of accessible boats, so it’s best to contact them before booking your tour at +1.888.900.6272.

Is it Pet-Friendly?

It’s best to leave your furry friends at home, as they are not permitted on the boat. However, pets on a leash can enjoy all the other wonders that Maligne Lake offers.

Is it Kid Friendly?

Yes! The whole Maligne Lake and Spirit Island experience is kid-friendly, and kids under 5 are free, though strollers are not permitted on the boat.

Will You Get Wet?

It’s pretty unlikely you will get wet unless it is raining. Still, the boats are covered, and guests can step outside whenever they wish.

Do You Need to Book in Advance?

Booking your cruise in advance is highly recommended , especially in July and August. Cruises do sell out frequently.

Hiking Trails, Picnic Spots, and Other Recreational Activities Nearby

Before or after your cruise, there are few things to do at Maligne Lake that may be of interest.

• Canoe or kayak : It’s impossible to miss the charming boat house at Maligne Lake. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and rowboats and get out on the water.
• Walk the Mary Schaffer Loop Trail : This is an easy 3.2 Jasper trail with only 82 meters of elevation gain near Maligne Lake. It will loop you through some beautiful forests and starts and ends at Maligne Lake.
• Moose Lake Loop : This trail is similar at 3.4 km, but has slightly more gain at 108 meters. The trail starts at Maligne Lake and gets you to the quiet Moose Lake! It’s common to see Moose on this trail.
• Gift Shop: The gift shop at Maligne Lake is quite extensive, and even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s still worth a wander.
• Have a Meal : There are three Jasper restaurants at Maligne Lake. The Lake House Café has both Grab and Go food as well as hot food service. There’s also the Waffle Hut , which is pretty self-explanatory for their food type, and The View Restaurant . All of these dining options only operate from June to October.

Is The Maligne Lake Cruise Worth It?

We have now enjoyed the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island twice in the summer and can confidently say that the experience is worth it. It’s pretty tough to see Spirit Island any other way, unless you have backcountry camping permits and are willing to canoe in. The beauty of the lake rivals popular Banff lakes like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise . It’s certainly the most beautiful lake in Jasper , and you may even find it the most stunning lake in the Rockies!

Is the Premium Cruise worth it? The Premium Cruise gets you an extra 15 minutes to explore Spirit Island, though no one can walk out to Spirit Island. The cruise also stops and lets you soak in the views at Pincushion Bay. Most importantly, the Premium Cruise is available only in the evening, allowing you to have the best possible light on Spirit Island, which is ideal for photographers. If all these things are important to you, we recommend booking the Premium Cruise. Premium Cruises must be booked on the Pursuit website . Since there is only one a day, keep in mind that it sells out very quickly.

Questions about the cruise are often asked in our private Facebook group, and nearly everyone agrees that the Maligne Lake cruise is worth the time, effort, and money. Everyone also agrees, including us, to book one of the later time slots in the day for the best light on Spirit Island.

Getting to Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is roughly 45km from the Town of Jasper, and it’s recommended that you take at least one hour to get to the lakeshore from Downtown Jasper. To get there, get on the Yellowhead Hwy and take a right on Maligne Lake Road . You’ll continue on this road until it ends at Maligne Lake. Allow either before your visit to Maligne Lake or after so that you can stop at some of the incredible sights on the way.

I suggest stopping at Maligne Canyon, as it’s a great beginner-friendly Jasper hike and definitely don’t miss Medicine Lake on your way in. Keep your eyes out for moose, sheep, and elk – Maligne Lake Road is one of the most well-known places to see wildlife in the park! Please remember these animals are wild. Never get out of your car for a photograph and observe quickly and at a distance so that they can live peacefully in their natural habitat.

Accessibility and Parking at Maligne Lake

There is parking at Maligne Lake, though during a beautiful summer weekend, the area becomes quite congested, and you might have to circle a few times before finding a place to park. There’s space to drop off elderly or disabled guests, as well as a few handicapped parking spots. The parking area is just a short distance (5-minute walk) from where you must be to depart on your cruise.

I Can Only Choose One Cruise – Lake Minnewanka or Maligne Lake?

Many visitors to the Rockies can only choose so many paid experiences like this. The two cruise experiences are on Maligne Lake and Lake Minnewanka in Banff. While both are fantastic, we would tell any visitor who can only choose one to go with the cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. We explain why below.

Let’s break it down: Maligne Lake Cruise vs Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Do You Need a Parks Pass to Visit Maligne Lake?

Yes, Maligne Lake is in Jasper National Park, and all visitors to the parks need a valid park pass. Pass prices are as follows:

Parks Canada Day Pass Rates

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass grants you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year. For many visitors, purchasing an annual pass makes more sense, as an adult’s day pass is $11.00 per day. The pass also grants access to historic sites such as Cave & Basin along with any other national park in the country.

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Fees

Our ultimate guide to purchasing a Canadian Parks Pass

Where to Stay in Jasper?

Our Top Recommended Jasper Tours

• Athabasca Falls: Class 2 White Water Rafting Adventure : Action packed adventure for the whole family.
• Canadian Rockies: Scenic Helicopter Tour : Located away from Jasper towards Nordegg, but worth the stop when checking out Abraham Lake or driving the Icefields Parkway.
• Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour : Animals and boating- two for one!
• Evening or Morning Wildlife Search : If you want to see wildlife, adventure out with a knowledgeable guide.
• Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk : Best to do when driving from Banff to Jasper.
• Maligne Lake Cruise With Guide : Experiencing Maligne Lake is one of the top things to do in Jasper. This cruise must be booked in advance as it does sell out.
• From Jasper With Love Theatre Show : The best thing to do in the evening with a nightcap in hand.

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

6 thoughts on “Is the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island Worth It?”

How long is the drive to the lake from Golden in August? I checked the drive time today but I don’t think it’s effected by winter weather

The drive would take about 4.5 hours without any stops.

I have a Certified Diabetic Alert Service Dog – can he join me on the cruise?

I don’t believe there are any exceptions for service dogs, but I would suggest calling Pursuit just to confirm with them! Or try messaging them on IG: https://www.instagram.com/pursuitbanffjasper/

Thank you for your amazing and helpful content! Your blog has been a planning dream! The Maligne lake cruises are unfortunately sold out the dates we’ll be in Jasper (late June). Do you have any tips on securing last minute tickets/finding cancellations? Do you know if there is ever room for walk ons? We are a family of 4 so guessing that might be tough. Finally, do you think it’s still worth visiting Maligne lake w/o cruise tickets? Thank you!

Hi Stephanie,

Have you tried booking through a third party like Viator and Get Your Guide as mentioned in the article? Sometimes they show as having extra. Are you flexible with your timings for the day?

There are sometimes no shows, but for a family of four that might be tough! Still I would recommend going to Maligne Lake and enjoying the lakeshore – plus Maligne Lake Road is a stunning drive! Once at the lakeshore you can try to walk on, though I truly do think four spare tickets is unlikely. You could split the group 2 and 2 and see if you can get tickets then. However, this may be waste of your precious time in the Rockies!

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Boat Cruise

Boat cruise on Maligne Lake, located in Jasper National Park.

Enjoy views of the Canadian Rockies, Spirit Island, and sprawling forests.

Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Boat Cruise

Jasper Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper's Maligne Lake Cruise

Fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake Cruise Overview

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Discover top natural attractions such as Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake on foot, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake.

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise

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Fully narrated Jasper Sightseeing Tour and Boat cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

What To Expect on the Jasper Sightseeing Tour & Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake cruise itinerary, 2023 maligne lake cruise daily operating hours, inside the maligne lake cruise.

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Maligne Lake Cruise Reviews

A wonderful trip! The guide on the boat was both entertaining and knowledgeable. Great opportunity to take some wonderful photographs.

Enjoyed our boat ride out and back as well as walking some trails around the headquarters. Need to add another 5-10 minutes to the stop at Spirit Island. Seemed like we were rushed. Maligne Canyon on the way back to Jasper was a perfect way to complete the trip!

The Maligne Lake Cruise shouldn't be missed. magnificent scenery..... One piece of advice book your cruise ahead, boats were completely booked when we arrived. It's a long beautiful drive out to the lake but knowing your cruise time ahead reduces stress and who needs that when traveling.... Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. If your in Jasper you've got to go!!!

Great cruise, the scenes was beyond belief! So beautiful, and the guides were very informative. highly recommend.

Jasper Maligne Lake Map

Up Maligne Road from Jasper.

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• Location & Hours

Frequently Asked Questions

The Maligne Lake Cruise is a unique sightseeing tour exploring Maligne Lake, home to the world-famous Spirit Island in Jasper National Park. Your voyage will take approximately 1.5 hours and will include vibrant stories from the onboard guide who will introduce you to the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with glaciology and the flora and fauna of the area.

For up-to-date Maligne Lake Cruise daily operating hours please visit the Location & Hours page .

You must arrive with your ticket at the boarding dock no later than 15 minutes before your departure time for check in. We recommend budgeting additional time to find parking during peak season and busy days.

The Maligne Lake Cruise is approximately 1.5 hours long (2 hours for the premium cruise) not including loading.

We recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure.

For up-to-date Maligne Lake Cruise departures please visit the  Location & Hours page .

From the east end of the townsite of Jasper, follow Highway 16 east for 3 km before taking the right turnoff for Maligne Lake Road. Proceed over the iron bridge across the Athabasca River, stay left at the fork in the road and then proceed for 48 km until you arrive at Maligne Lake. Watch for “animal jam” slowdowns along the way.

When you reach the Maligne Lake area, the first public parking lot is to the left. After parking, follow the short trail through a grove of trees to Maligne Lake, the ticket office, boathouse, lake house and the historic chalet. We highly recommend you allow 1–1.5 hours to drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake.

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Yes. We are accessible to most standard wheelchairs. We recommend you contact central reservations at +1.888.900.6272 as our accessible boats are in limited supply.

Although wildlife such as moose and grizzly bears frequent the Maligne Lake area, they can be difficult to find and we cannot guarantee that you will see them.

Unfortunately, for safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate strollers on our boats. They can be left at the boat docks.

Currently, we have 3 types of boats that can carry between 38 and 50 passengers.

Generally, no. Our cruise boats are covered, but there may be a bit of water spray if the windows are open when the boat picks up speed.

Weather can be unpredictable. The lake tends to be cooler than the temperature in the town of Jasper so a light jacket is recommended. It can even snow here in the summer months, so bring layers just in case!

We have 3 food and beverage options to choose from: The Lake House Café, Waffle Hut and The View. Washroom facilities are available in the parking lot, as well as in the Lake House.

No. Parks Canada requires all adult visitors to Canada’s national parks to buy a permit for the duration of their stay to support visitor services and facilities. Day Passes or a yearly Discovery Pass are available to buy in-person at Parks Canada's park gates and information centres in Banff and Jasper . Admission for youth 17 and under is free.

Maligne Lake is one of the most popular recreational areas in Jasper National Park. There are plenty of great trails for hiking all around this beautiful area. In addition to these, you can also rent canoes, rowboats and kayaks, or visit the Maligne Lake Cruise for an interpretive voyage across the lake.

Yes. You will need to pre-purchase a national park fishing license, prior to arriving at the lake.

A daily fishing permit from Parks Canada costs $12.75 per person, or an annual permit can be purchased for $44.25.

Canoes and kayaks are available to rent from the boathouse and can be booked online .

Safety briefings and instructions are provided prior to your departure so you'll be prepared in the event of an emergency. Lifejackets will be provided for safety.

Rentals Frequently Asked Questions

We will hold pre-booked rentals for up to 15 minutes beyond the scheduled rental time. After this, the rental will no longer be reserved for you and will be open to walk-in customers. Please note that if you arrive late, the amount of time is factored into your rental duration. E.g. if you have rented for 1 hour and arrive 15 minutes late, then you will have 45 minutes remaining.

• Each boat rental comes with a CSA certified PFD.
• Each canoe and rowboat has a bail bucket attached.
• Sit-on kayaks do not require bail buckets as they are watertight.
• Sit-in kayaks are for experience paddlers only and come with a water evacuations pump and rope throw bag.
• Guests cannot bring their own PFDs.

All those renting equipment must be 18 years of age or older. Renters under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to rent. Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the rental while out on the lake.

Yes, a waiver will be required and is to be reviewed and signed before departing the Boathouse. Children under 18 years require a parental or legal guardian signature.

Weather can be unpredictable. The lake tends to be cooler than the temperature in the town of Jasper so layers are recommended. It can even snow here in the summer months, so prepare for any season! Do not bring anything you are not willing to lose to the lake. Ensure car keys and other items are kept within a pocket or carry those items attached to your person.

1.866.606.6700   |  CONTACT US

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Popular Ramsey Lake boat tour in Sudbury, Ont., cancelled for the season

Science north owns the dock the boat used, which is being repaired this summer.

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A popular tourist attraction in Sudbury, Ont., won't be operating this summer.

The William Ramsey tour boat will be landlocked due to repairs at a dock owned by Science North.

Rob Osborne, the senior captain and owner of the tour boat, said he learned in April the dock would be closed due to needed repairs.

Osborn said he was "sad, disappointed and frustrated" when he got the news.

"I've done this for 40 years," he said.

"We've had a couple tough years through COVID, we didn't even operate. And now we're just starting to recover from it and we're going to lose another season this year."

In a news release, Science North said it addressed flotation issues at the dock's east section in 2019, which needed significant repairs.

But concerns led to a thorough engineering assessment in 2023, which revealed the dock had reached the end of its serviceable life.

"To prioritize public safety, Science North has temporarily closed off access to the floating dock and disconnected its power source," the news release said.

The science centre said the goal is to complete the necessary repairs by next spring.

• Sudbury's Cortina cruise boat now called 'The William Ramsey'
• Sudbury, Ont., diver finds jellyfish in city's Ramsey Lake

Because of the size and nature of his boat, Osborne said he can't dock anywhere else on Ramsey Lake.

"We need the depth at the end of the dock, obviously, but we need power to the dock, we need access to drinkable water, we need access to garbage," he said.

The boat also needs to be wheelchair accessible, which was the case at the Science North dock.

Osborne said he looked into operating on another lake for the season, but none had docks that met the standards he needed for the boat.

When he received the news the dock would be closed for the season, Osborne said he had already booked 40 charters, which he had to cancel.

"Actually, our projections for this summer was probably going to be our best year ever," he said.

Because the boat won't be running for the season, Osborne said he'll probably have to delay his retirement, due to the lost income.

With files from Erika Chorostil

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MAGA Boat Parade returns as Donald Trump set to visit Detroit

A “Make America Great Again” Boat Parade is scheduled to set sail from Lake St. Clair’s shore in Macomb County on Saturday, the same day former president and presumptive 2024 Republican nominee Donald Trump is set to make two appearances in Detroit.

“Michigan, as the Great Lakes State, knows how to show off its nautical enthusiasm,” Rosanne Ponkowski, a spokesperson for event organizers the Michigan Conservative Coalition, said in a press release. 

“In that regard, nothing will do better than a massive MAGA boat parade,” she said. 

The parade, a tribute to the former president’s 78th birthday on Friday, will embark the following afternoon at 1:01 p.m., precisely, from Lake St. Clair off the Nine Mile Tower Mark. Organizers expect the fleet to coast by Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit by 4:01 p.m. — and wrap up shortly after. 

A flotilla of some 300 boats participated in a similar boat-centric birthday bash during the 2020 election. Supporters flew American and Trump flags in tandem and donned campaign gear. 

“We have all seen television coverage of the Florida Trump flotillas and elsewhere. Frankly, the Michigan MAGA Boat Parade in 2020 was much bigger and more fun,” said Ponkowski. “Our 2024 Michigan MAGA Boat Parade is expected to be even larger!”

Headlining the event is a 74-foot flagship boat, accompanied by a privately owned 80-foot tug boat. Seaplanes, helicopters and drones are also expected to join a slew of water bound vessels. Bikers for Trump will ride parallel to the fleet on roadways along the parade route, and boats will join the kick-off crew as the parade passes marinas along the way, organizers said. 

Back on land, Trump is slated to speak at a roundtable discussion with constituents at a Detroit church . The candidate will also appear at Hungtington Place to deliver the keynote speech at The People’s Convention, a three-day conference run by the conservative nonprofit Turning Point Action. The list of speakers for the event boasts several prominent figures in the GOP, including members of Trump’s family and former Trump administration staffers. 

US Senate race: With Trump endorsement and lead, Rogers tries to fend off rivals

In 2020, President Joe Biden received 94% of votes in Detroit , while Trump took just 5%. The city has a majority Black population — a key voting demographic in the nation. Biden won 92% of Black voters in 2020 , but polls show support has waned. In the current election cycle, both candidates are vying for the support of Black voters, and that is thought to be a target of Trump’s visit. 

Wildlife and Waterfalls

5.5 Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper.

Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper wildlife & waterfalls maligne lake cruise.

5.5 Hour Maligne Boat Cruise & Maligne Valley Tour

Jasper Waterfalls & Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

5.5 Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise

Discover top natural attractions such as Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake on foot, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake.

What To Expect on the 5.5 Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise

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Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Reviews

Excellent tour experience. Tour guide Jamie was informative and flexible, stopping often for wildlife sightings. The itinerary packs a lot into 5.5 hours, what a great value. Highly recommend it!

I did not know what to expect. Kelly our tour guide was simply a delight to listen to. She was fun, knowledgeable, patient and had an eye for the local Wild Life. I gained so much new information. I had questions before this tour and I received replies promptly that was truly helpful. On the Maligne Lake leg of this guided tour Nick and Annabelle were awesome! They made me feel safe and offered up so much information Maligne Lake surrounded by the mountain ranges and finally Spirit Island should be on anyone's bucket list. Thank you guys for making this vacation truly an awesome experience.

First of all, special thanks to our guide John. He was excellent. He was knowledgeable, funny and very courteous. He made the trip! The trip was very good and we saw a grizzly bear as well as rare owls and eagles. The trip to the secret island and the gorge were also worthwhile. Great trip, great host and you get picked up and dropped off, anywhere you wanted.

Having a guide like Ross, a wildlife photographer, made this an unforgettable adventure. We saw Elk, big horn sheep and mule deer as well as countless sights we will never forget. The cruise of Maligne Lake and tour of Spirit Island were the highlight of our trip to he Canadian Rockies. Carlos was our guide and his extensive knowledge and sense of humor made this aspect very special. I recommend this tour without reservation and hope others have the opportunity to experience this part of Canada from this special perspective.

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Outstanding Orlando Boat Tours (2024)

Orlando boat tours are a fantastic activity in Central Florida, no matter the type of boating adventure you choose.

Some of the suggestions below are full-day tours, and others take mere hours. But all are a great way to spend your time in order to enjoy the Sunshine State’s beautiful scenery. And that could mean a wild ride in the Everglades or sailing sunset cruises on one of the Orlando area's attractive lakes.

We are sharing the best Orlando boat tours – private and group options – including scenic pontoon boat tours, airboat rides, kayaking, canoeing, sunset sails, and even boat rentals at Walt Disney World.

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

• Book a sunset sailing tour in Orlando . It's our favorite type of boat tour, and Florida sunsets often show off for an audience!
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• See what to bring for Orlando boat tours so you are prepared to deal with the Florida bugs!

Orlando Airboat Rides 

One of the things Florida is most known for is its famous airboat tours. Sign up for this fun adventure whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, within Everglades National Park, or Orlando on Shingle Creek, on the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. 

You won’t soon forget an exciting airboat ride when you visit the Orlando area, with a chance to see Bald Eagles and other endemic tropical birds, alligators, and crocodiles (maybe even a baby alligator). 

Airboat rides are particularly popular amongst nature lovers. These special boats allow you to glide on the unique marshes and swampland of the Central Florida area. We thoroughly enjoyed our Florida airboat experience. 

Sign up for a 90-minute fun and educational Orlando airboat tour to encounter the real Florida with experienced captains. Alternatively, secure your spot for a 1-hour sunset airboat tour and hope for one of Florida’s famous colorful sunsets. 

Most airboat tours take place rain or shine. Just in case, we recommend traveling to Florida with a poncho or thin raincoat of some sort. Be sure to check in for your tour at least 30 minutes before the experience. 

Orlando Boat Tour on an Airboat with Transportation

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Central Florida (including designated Disney World and Universal hotels), a BBQ lunch, a printed photo, and admission to their animal rescue Wildlife Park, where you can see birds, big cats, and reptiles. 

The entire experience – from transportation to the boat ride – lasts around 7 hours, including the drive to and from the Everglades area. The Florida Everglades are approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive each way from Orlando. Choose from a 30-minute or 60-minute airboat ride when you book your experience . 

Orlando Sailing Tours 

How about enjoying Orlando’s lakes with wind power? Sailing tours are the perfect way to glide on the water. And a sunset sail is incredibly romantic, to boot! 

Private Morning Sail 

Set sail on a 2-hour private sailing tour, starting at 10:00 am. Adventure awaits on Lake Fairview for up to four guests. 

This area is just north of College Park near downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando’s Lieu Gardens. Don’t forget to bring towels if you want, though water is provided (and lakes are calm anyway, so you shouldn’t really get wet!).

Advanced reservations are required.

Private Lake Sunset Sail 

Sail on Lake Fairview, approximately 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, 30-35 minutes from the Disney theme parks (including the Disney Springs area), and 25 minutes from Universal. 

This 2-hour private Orlando boat tour can fit up to four people, and they allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages onboard. We recommend bringing a bottle of wine or champagne! 

We recommend bringing along a wine tumbler set for your sailboat adventure! 

Kayaking Tours

Connect with nature from the comfort of a kayak and get in some exercise too. Orlando boat tour options for kayaking are plentiful. 

Kayak with Manatees

Head 45 minutes north of Orlando for your chance to kayak with manatees! These cute and friendly mammals are famous in the Sunshine State, where they come to enjoy the warm water for the winter. 

Whether you’re a novice kayaking trying it for the first time, or an experienced pro, this tour is for you if you want to see a plethora of wildlife. 

Check out this popular tour with 5-star reviews

Glass Bottom Boat Kayak Tours

If you want to see the fish below the water’s surface without snorkeling, sign up for a glass-bottom kayak tour. See through the bottom of the boat on this Orlando boat tour and have the chance to view the colorful fish and marine plant life beneath you. 

Try a Rock Springs guided kayak eco-tour as you glide on the crystal-clear water for two hours. You’ll learn about the local ecosystem, stop for photos, and have the opportunity to swim in the springs. Opt to jump into the water from a rope swing for a thrill during this adventure. 

You can also opt for a sunset tour in a glass-bottom kayak . Paddle through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes and canals in a peaceful setting. Your knowledgeable guide will point out interesting nature homes along the way and share some history of the area. You’ll also be able to stop for photos where you like! 

This tour is likely to sell out: Reserve Now

Winter Park Evening Clear Kayak Glow in the Dark Tour

If you want to add a fun element to your kayaking adventure, sign up for a Winter Park kayak tour at night with a glow-in-the-dark kayak. The boats are illuminated with nighttime lighting!

They will surely be a good photo opp and fun outing as the lights make the water beneath you glow. 

Another great option is this Neon Night Glow Paddleboard or Clear Kayak experience on Lake Ivanhoe.

This unique boat tour allows you to see Orlando’s skyline at night as you paddle along with the help of your guides, the moonlight, and the colorful lights beneath your kayak or paddleboard.  

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

One of our favorite Orlando boat tours is in Winter Park. It was established in the 1930s, decades before Walt Disney World opened in Lake Buena Vista.

This pontoon boat tour starts near the well-known Park Avenue area. Set out on your scenic cruise from Lake Osceola to the Winter Park Chain of Lakes as your guide takes you through the manmade canals.

Sail past stunning homes in Winter Park, where you will have breathtaking views of the opulent private homes in the area (which is one of the reasons we enjoy the boat tour).

You will have a chance to see wonderful some of Florida’s beautiful birds, like Blue Herons and large cranes, as you travel on several lakes. 

Each boat holds a maximum of 18 passengers. Be sure to bring cash or a check to buy your tickets because credit cards are not accepted. We advise purchasing tickets in the morning on weekends, even if you plan on going later in the day. It’s a very popular tour, and tickets often sell out quickly. 

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour is closed on Christmas Day. Otherwise, tours leave daily on the hour, starting at 10:00 am. The last tour is at 4:00 pm. 

Day Trip Boat Tours from Orlando

While the Orlando boat tours listed above are within 30 minutes, on average, from Orlando, it’s worth mentioning there are more boat tour options nearby within a 2-hour drive. Here are some additional Central Florida boat tour options. 

Mount Dora Lake Tours

One of our favorite destinations from Central Florida is 45 minutes north: the quaint town of Mount Dora . There’s so much to see and do there in the afternoon or morning; a boat tour is the best way to extend your trip to a whole day. 

Take a 2-hour pontoon boat tour with a departure point at the historic hotel, the Lakeside Inn. Enjoy your leisurely cruise around Lake Dora and The Harris Chain of Lakes, including the famed Dora Canal.

The all-weather 25’ boats can cruise rain or shine thanks to their retractable clear covers for the sides of the boat. Choose from one of two daytime tours, or their third option to cruise during sunset. 

Clearwater Beach with Dolphin Encounter Cruise

This 12-hour full-day tour begins with pick-up at 7:30 am. You’ll head west of Orlando to the popular Florida destination (Clearwater Beach), where you will take a cruise to encounter bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. 

While this means that you aren’t guaranteed to spot dolphins, your tour guide will do his or her very best to find them. You may see these beautiful mammals up close by the boat or further in the distance if they appear in the ocean. Part of the fun is the anticipation. 

A one-hour dolphin tour boat ride is sandwiched between hours of free time on a Gulf Coast beach. For only $10 more, you can purchase a wristband for the boat ride that allows you to have unlimited beer, wine, and vodka punch. 

Pickup and drop off are included at one of three major locations of your choice (Disney areas included). This means that all you have to do is sign up for the tour and be at that location for pick-up time. 

Choose from the three pick-up locations listed below:

• Walt Disney World area, on Epcot Resorts Blvd. (northern area of the parks) 
• Walt Disney World area, at Maingate Lakeside Resort in Kissimmee (area of the Disney World theme parks that is further south) 
• International Drive (close to Universal) at Senor Frogs

Clear Canoe Boat Tour Near Orlando at Silver Springs

This clear canoe boat tour is approximately halfway between Orlando and Gainesville at Silver Springs. The drive is approximately an hour and 45 minutes from downtown Orlando. 

You’ll do a self-guided tour after the kayak company representative meets you and gives you a laminated map and some brief instructions. Paddle near Cypress Trees and see turtles, ducks, birds, and a chance to see manatees during the winter season, when they swim to Florida’s warm waters.

Dan and I often like to explore an area freely, on our own. Maybe you’re the same way! If so, this is a great tour for you in the Orlando area, as long as you can rent a car to get to the meeting point or take a taxi/Uber or Lyft there. 

Orlando Boat Tours at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can rent motorized boats at Disney World? It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World, besides the parks. 

Rent a Sun Tracker® Pontoon boat by the half-hour for up to 10 people. You can also opt to kayak or canoe from Fort Wilderness by the hour. 

One of the most singular boat tours in Orlando, or perhaps anywhere, is an Amphicar boat tour. Be a passenger and the envy of all onlookers in a cool convertible car that drives right into the water. This experience is available at Disney Springs restaurant, The Boathouse.

Lastly, you can book a specialty cruise to see the fireworks. You don’t even have to be a hotel guest to do so! Snacks and soft drinks are included in a memorable cruise on a 25’ boat. 

You can also request ​​for a festive banner and/or balloons to be set up on the boat, which is included in the cost (request at the time of booking). It’s a great thing to do for you and your partner or up to 10 guests total, whether a proposal, anniversary treat, or family reunion. 

What to Bring for Orlando Boat Tours

Florida's heat can be brutal, depending on the time of year. No matter the month, you definitely need to protect your skin from the sun. The sun in FL is strong, year-round. 

Be sure to pack the following if you’ll be on the water in sunny Florida: 

• Refillable water bottle (the ice will stay intact for hours in the MiiR bottle, our favorite insulated wide-mouth bottle) 
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• SPF lip balm
• Eco-friendly bathing suit 
• Rash guard 

Conclusion for Best Orlando Boat Tours

Whether you want to captain a boat yourself, row your way through Florida’s waters in a kayak, see gators on an educational airboat ride, or go on a romantic sailboat cruise around one of Central Florida’s lakes, an Orlando boat is a wonderful Florida activity. 

It will connect you with nature, get you out in fresh air, and allow your body to absorb vitamin D in the Florida sunshine. Sign up for an Orlando boat tour and explore this southern state in a unique and adventurous way. 

Read this next:

• 40 Awesome Things Florida is Known For
• 30 Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides the Parks
• Kennedy Space Center Tickets: Helpful Info for a Successful Visit

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