FAQ

I want to purchase tickets for a cruise at a time that I don’t see listed on the schedule—what should I do?
Please contact our office directly for any additional cruise information. 480-827-9144
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
For our nature cruise, we always recommend reservations in advance. For all meal cruises, reservations are a must. Please reserve at least one week in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. If you do not wish to purchase tickets online, please call our office and we will be happy to book them for you.
What type of ticket should I buy if I'm bringing a very young child?
Children 4 and younger are complimentary on all cruises, however, if booking a meal cruise, children will not participate in the meal unless they eat off of a parents’ plate.  For children 5 to 12 years, you may purchase a child’s ticket.  All Children are required to wear life jackets.  Please indicate the number of non-paying children when booking your cruise.
What can we expect to see on the tour?
On all of our cruises you will travel through beautiful canyon walls extending over 1000 feet high, see desert wildlife such as the desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, white-tailed deer and birds of prey including the bald eagle. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, flora and fauna native to the Sonoran Desert.
Are food or drinks served on the cruise?
A snack bar is available on board where you may purchase soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, candy, popcorn and miscellaneous souvenirs. You may bring on your own unopened bottled water. Concession items are cash or check only. Food and drinks from our snack bar are not included in the regular price of the cruise.
What should I wear?
We recommend you dress "weather appropriate." Casual attire is generally the clothing of choice. A hat, sunscreen and shades are recommended year round.
Can I bring my own alcohol on board?
Our liquor license does not allow you to bring your own alcohol aboard the boat. You can purchase beer, wine and select mixed drinks at our concession stand. Please remember to bring cash or a check with you.
What happens if it rains?
The Dolly Steamboat departs rain or shine. Our lower and upper decks are enclosed and heated for your comfort. Keep in mind that the desert comes "alive" in the rain, and there is always a chance that you will see waterfalls if there is enough precipitation. A special treat for many of our guests.
How do I know if lunch is being offered on a specific day?
Lunches are available with a minimum of 35 passengers. Please call our office for availability.
Is seating assigned on the cruise?
No. Seating is based on a first come-first serve basis. We will pre-board anyone with special needs first.
Are lifejackets available for use?
Life jackets are available for each passenger. Children 12 and under are REQUIRED by Arizona State Law to wear life jackets.
Are there restrooms available?
Wheelchair-accessible and regular restrooms are available prior to boarding and aboard the Dolly Steamboat.
Is the boat wheelchair / stroller accessible?
The lower deck of the vessel is wheelchair accessible. You are also welcome to bring strollers on board.
How far is it from Hwy 60 and Idaho Rd in Apache Junction?
35 minutes. Guest should arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Allow time for your starting points and traffic conditions, etc.
Are gift certificates available?
Yes! Gift certificates are available for any occasion. To purchase a gift certificate, please call us at 480-827-9144.
Are private charters available?
Yes! We offer private charters, including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, business meeting and more. For information regarding charters contact us directly by calling 480-827-9144.
How do I find out which menu will be served? What if I'm a vegetarian?
Please call us to find out the menu for the evening you are reserving.  A vegetarian option is available, please indicate any vegetarians when purchasing your ticket.  For other concerns or food allergies, please call us directly.
What is the Astronomy Cruise?
Once a month we offer a special cruise hosted by Dr. Sky, renowned astronomy expert and radio personality. Dr. Sky will give a presentation on the solar system. You will also enjoy a complete dinner with all the trimmings, as on a regular Twilight Dinner Cruise. An additional fee of $8.00 is applied for the astronomy cruise. Check the schedule for the dates when the Astronomy cruise is being offered.
Is seating reserved for dinner?
Yes. Seating is reserved under your last name. While we cannot guarantee specific seating arrangements, we do our best to accommodate your requests. Please call our office for any specific seating arrangements when purchasing tickets. The lower and upper decks have enclosed areas, both are heated and the lower deck is air-conditioned. The upper and lower decks offer open air seating. Only the lower deck is wheelchair accessible.