Lake Powell: Antelope Canyon 2-Hour Photo Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of capturing breathtaking shots of one of the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes, the Lake Powell: Antelope Canyon 2-Hour Photo Boat Tour might just be your perfect adventure. This guided boat ride offers a chance to see the natural beauty of Antelope Canyon and the surrounding scenery while giving you tips to improve your photography skills. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that it’s a well-loved experience.

What we particularly like about this tour is its combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and small-group intimacy—plus the unique option to swim in the canyon during warmer months. On the flip side, it involves some walking (about 400 yards to the dock), which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues. This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography buffs, or anyone wanting a memorable way to see Lake Powell’s highlights in just two hours.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour showcases the natural formations of Antelope Canyon and panoramic views of Glen Canyon Dam and Wahweap Bay.
• Expert Photography Help: Guides assist with capturing the best photos, making it perfect for both amateurs and seasoned shutterbugs.
• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of space.
• Seasonal Swimming: The option to take a refreshing swim during warmer months adds a fun, cool element to the experience.
• Value for Price: At $199 per person, the tour’s price reflects its intimate, guided nature and the included photography assistance.
• Easy Access: Clear instructions for meeting at the Lake Powell Resort ensure a hassle-free start.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Scenery

Your adventure begins at the Lake Powell Resort, where you’ll find parking near the top of the launch ramp (just avoid Wahweap Marina parking). After a short walk of around 10 minutes to the Wahweap Public Dock, your guide will be waiting on the left dock. The boat used for this trip is an open bow vessel, offering clear, unobstructed views all around—ideal for photography and sightseeing.

Once aboard, the guide will guide you through the entrance to Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon famous for its narrow, winding passages and stunning rock formations that glow with warm hues. As you cruise, you’ll get sweeping views of Glen Canyon Dam, Wahweap Bay, and the surrounding cliffs, which are often quite mesmerizing.

Why the Small Group Matters

With only six guests on board, the experience feels incredibly personalized. Reviewers consistently mention how meaningful this makes the trip—there’s plenty of space for everyone to sit comfortably, step outside for photos, or chat with the guide. This limited size also means guides like Captain Anthony, Lance, and Mario can give focused attention, helping you capture great shots and answering questions along the way.

Photographic Tips and Assistance

One of the standout features of this tour is the guides’ help with photography. Many reviewers highlight how their guides, like Captain Jim or Katharine, took time to assist with portraits and offer tips on how to frame the canyon’s beauty. For anyone who loves snapping photos, this personal touch is invaluable—especially in a setting where lighting and angles can make or break a shot.

More Great Tours Nearby

Swim and Refreshing Water Activities

Depending on the season, the tour offers a chance to swim in the canyon waters—a rare opportunity to cool off after some photo-taking or simply relax in an extraordinary setting. Reviewers like Anna and Michael appreciated this aspect, noting it added a fun, refreshing element to their visit.

The Duration and Pacing

While two hours might seem short, it’s enough time to leisurely explore the canyon, snap plenty of photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The tour balances sightseeing, photography, and the possibility of swimming, making it a well-rounded experience.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

Included in the Price

• Guided boat ride through Antelope Canyon and nearby areas
• Assistance with photography from experienced captains
• Swimming in the canyon waters (seasonal)
• Life jackets for safety
• Fuel

Not Included

• Food and drinks—consider bringing snacks and water
• Your national park pass (one per vehicle), which you’ll need to access the launch area

Practical Tips

• Bring your camera and extra batteries or memory cards—this is a picture-perfect setting.
• Pack swimwear, towel, and sunscreen if you plan to swim.
• Walk about 400 yards from parking to the dock, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Check the weather—warm months are best for swimming, but always check for seasonal conditions.

Meeting Instructions

Ensure you arrive at the Lake Powell Resort, park in the designated single-car lots near the launch ramp, and meet your captain on the left dock. Avoid parking at Wahweap Marina for easier access.

Unpacking the Reviews: Authentic Insights

From the many reviews, a few themes stand out. Captain Anthony consistently receives praise for his experience and friendly guidance. One reviewer mentioned how he “saved a family of paddleboarders from gusty winds,” showing his attentiveness. Others appreciated the scenic beauty—calling it “gorgeous,” “spectacular,” and “stunning.”

The small group size is a recurring highlight, with many noting how it allowed for a relaxed, personalized experience. Several reviewers like Wendy and Daniel mentioned the comfortable boat and the excellent communication about parking and meeting instructions, which made the whole process smooth.

The opportunity to capture great photos was often praised, with guides helping to frame shots and accommodate different skill levels. The inclusion of swimming during the right season added fun and variety for many, especially those wanting a cool break from sightseeing.

Notable Quotes

• “All 5 stars—special thanks to Katharine and Lans for this experience.”
• “The boat was nice and comfortable, and Captain Jim’s knowledge made the trip unforgettable.”
• “The views were breathtaking, and our guide Mario took great pictures for everyone.”

What Could Be Better?

A few reviewers hint at the walking distance and the need to be prepared for that. While most found it manageable, travelers with mobility challenges might want to consider this.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 2-hour boat tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, photography help, and relaxation. It’s a fantastic choice for photo enthusiasts, small groups wanting intimate experiences, and anyone who wants a swift yet scenic overview of Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell’s highlights.

The price point is reasonable considering the personalized guidance and the unique opportunity to swim and take stunning pictures. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, attentive guides, and scenic, photo-worthy moments.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth canyon exploration or wheelchair-accessible options, this tour might not meet all your needs. The walking distance and seasonal swimming availability are worth considering in your planning.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with boat rides and walking the 400-yard distance to the dock. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Do I need a park pass to join this tour?
Yes, each vehicle needs a national park pass, which isn’t included in the tour price.

Can I bring my own photography equipment?
Absolutely. Bring your camera and accessories—guides are happy to help with photography tips.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and snacks if desired.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as spacious and stylish, with plenty of room for just six guests to enjoy the ride comfortably.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Lake Powell: Antelope Canyon 2-Hour Photo Boat Tour promises an intimate, scenic, and photography-friendly experience. It’s best suited for those eager to see the canyon’s natural beauty from an accessible, comfortable boat while snagging unforgettable photos. With knowledgeable guides, the chance to swim, and a small-group setting, this tour combines fun with practicality, making it a highlight for many visitors to the Lake Powell area.

You can check availability for your dates here: