2 Hour Salt Lake Boat Tour with Swimming on the Lake

Navigating the vast expanse of Utah’s Great Salt Lake on a boat that offers not just sightseeing but the chance to float in its uniquely buoyant waters sounds like a bucket-list experience. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the glowing reviews, high ratings, and detailed descriptions make this tour stand out as a must-do for those visiting Salt Lake City.

What fans love most? The knowledgeable guides who mix fun stories with solid facts, the visual splendor of the lake’s landscape, and the value for money—especially considering the inclusion of swimming in one of the saltiest bodies of water on Earth. However, keep in mind that bugs near the shoreline can be an issue, although they vanish once you’re out on the water. This experience is best suited for travelers eager to combine a relaxing boat ride with a quirky swimming adventure—perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone craving a memorable, offbeat outing.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide.
• Two swimming stops allow guests to enjoy the lake’s buoyancy firsthand.
• Expert guides share entertaining stories and insights about the lake.
• Comfort onboard includes spa pillows, light refreshments, and buckets for rinsing off.
• Bugs are more prevalent near the marina but disappear once on the water.
• Good value for the price considering the unique experience and inclusions.

An In-Depth Look at the Salt Lake Boat Tour

An Introduction to the Experience

This tour promises a two-hour journey across Utah’s Great Salt Lake, where you’ll board a cozy pontoon boat with a small group—typically no more than nine travelers. From start to finish, the experience balances scenic views, education, and fun in the sun. It’s a good way to see a body of water that’s both enormous and incredibly salty, with the added thrill of floating in water so buoyant that you practically feel weightless.

Guides like Devin, Nate, or Tyler are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. They tell stories about the lake’s designation as the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere, sharing both historical tidbits and personal touches that make the ride lively and authentic.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike generic boat trips, this tour emphasizes interactivity—you’re not just watching the scenery but actively participating in the salt lake experience. You’ll love the way guides explain the science behind buoyancy and the lake’s salinity levels that make floating so effortless. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides go out of their way to make the trip memorable—taking photos, sharing interesting facts, and keeping everyone engaged.

The floating experience is often described as surreal. One reviewer noted, “You really do just float. I stood, but it was as if there was a float beneath my feet as I could not sink. Such a strange and enjoyable feeling.” This alone is a highlight that turns a simple boat ride into a quirky adventure.

The Itinerary: From Marina to Floating in Salt Lake

Start Point: Great Salt Lake State Park is where your journey begins. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who provides a quick safety briefing and a beekeepers-style hat to keep bugs away during the initial moments, especially if you’re sensitive to insects. Remember that bugs tend to be more active near the shoreline, but once you’re on the water, they’re usually gone.

The ride out onto the lake offers breathtaking panoramic views of the expansive, shimmering salt flats and distant mountains. Expect to hear engaging stories about the lake’s formation, its ecological importance, and how it has changed over the years.

First Stop: Here, you have the chance to float in the lake’s deeper waters, feeling the full buoyant effect. Many reviewers mention the thrill of just standing or lying back and feeling completely weightless. Guides like Tyler or Devin often take photos and encourage everyone to enjoy the moment.

Second Stop: The boat moves to a more shallow area, giving you a different perspective—this time walking in the salty shallows or simply relaxing on the spa pillows. The salt in the water acts as a natural exfoliant, and rinsing off with fresh water provided onboard (or at the marina afterward) ensures you leave feeling refreshed.

Return to the marina marks the end of your two-hour adventure, leaving you with plenty to talk about and a handful of fantastic photos.

What Makes the Stops Special?

The floating stops are the core of the experience. The first stop is often in deeper water, where you float effortlessly, marveling at how your body stays buoyant without any effort. One reviewer shared, “I simply stood, but it was as if there was a float beneath my feet as I could not sink.” The second stop offers a more shallow water experience, perfect for walking and exploring the salty terrain in a different way.

Comfort and Practicalities

The boat is equipped with spa pillows—a small but appreciated luxury—allowing you to lean back and relax as you take in the scenery. During the trip, light refreshments and bottled water are provided, helping you stay hydrated in the sun. Buckets for rinsing salt off your hands and face are handy, especially after swimming or floating.

For those concerned about salt stinging, the guides advise avoiding shaving certain body parts beforehand. Also, shower facilities at the marina make it easy to wash off the salt after the tour, preventing dryness or irritation.

Dealing with Bugs and Other Considerations

A notable point from reviews is the presence of bugs near the shoreline, especially during early departure times. The tour addresses this with bee-keeper style hats to protect your face. Once on the water, the bugs generally retreat, making the floating experience more pleasant.

As for clothing, bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sunblock is essential. Many reviewers mention that the saltwater can sting if you shave body parts beforehand, so a little pre-tour prep can go a long way.

Guide Quality and Customer Service

Multiple reviews highlight guides like Tyler, Devin, Nate, and Colton for their friendly, knowledgeable, and often humorous approach. One reviewer mentioned, “Captain Tyler was very knowledgeable about Salt Lake and the area, and he taught us a lot with a fun twist.” The guides are also attentive, taking photos of guests in the water and making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable.

The Value Proposition

At $81 per person, this tour is considered excellent value given the uniqueness of floating in a saltwater lake and the personalized attention of guides. The experience is far more than just a boat ride; it’s a combination of education, relaxation, and fun—all wrapped into two hours.

Who Will Love This?

This tour suits a variety of travelers: families with kids eager for a fun adventure, solo travelers looking for a quirky story to tell, or groups of friends wanting a memorable experience. If you enjoy scenic views, learning about natural features, and a splash of humor, this trip will hit the spot.

Final Thoughts

This Salt Lake Boat Tour with swimming offers a rare peek into one of the world’s most unusual bodies of water. You’ll enjoy the stunning vistas, the unique buoyancy experience, and the friendly guides who make the journey engaging and fun. The small group size and inclusive nature make it a comfortable, personal outing that’s worth the price.

While the bugs might be a minor inconvenience near the marina, they disappear once you’re on the water, making the floating segments all the more enjoyable. The refreshments, comfort amenities, and overall professionalism of the guides elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable adventure.

If you’re visiting Salt Lake City and want to add a truly quirky highlight to your trip, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially ideal for those curious about natural wonders, looking for fun family activities, or wanting to tick a unique experience off their bucket list.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes bottled water and a light snack, along with the boat ride and swimming stops. It’s designed to give you comfort and refreshment throughout.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately two hours, including time on the water and stops for swimming and floating.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You’ll meet at Great Salt Lake State Park, 13312 W 1075 S, Magna, UT 84044. The tour ends back at this same meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunblock, and shoes suitable for water. A hat or protective headgear is also recommended, especially if you’re sensitive to bugs.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are attentive to safety, making it suitable for families and individuals alike.

What about the weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

This Salt Lake boat tour offers a combination of scenic beauty, educational storytelling, and the chance to float effortlessly in one of the most saline lakes on earth. With friendly guides, a relaxed vibe, and unique salty adventures, it’s a memorable way to experience the natural oddity that is the Great Salt Lake.