This Sunset Wine Cruise in Arizona Is the Most Relaxing Experience in the State

If you live in the Grand Canyon State, you know that any opportunity to get on a body of water is a welcoming retreat from the desert. And what better way to do this than take a relaxing sunset wine cruise in Arizona? Not only will this offer up the best views in the entire state, but it'll also provide the perfect way to wind down on a spring evening. Our favorite is Desert Belle Cruises in Mesa, AZ, an 80-minute boat tour with sips, snacks, and live music.

While Desert Belle Cruises is considered one of the most romantic things to do in Arizona, children are also welcome aboard, making it a fun activity for the whole family. As you cruise on the calm waters of Saguaro Lake, you'll be delighted to find that the double-decker boat easily glides through the water for a slow, tranquil ride. Here's more to know about the Arizona wine cruise before you book.

What to Expect on This Arizona Sunset Wine Cruise

Desert Belle Cruises has been around for more than 50 years, providing an excellent sightseeing experience and an interactive history lesson about the majestic Saguaro Lake in Mesa, Arizona. When you book an 80-minute cruise, you'll be guided through the exotic Arizona wildlife, including canyon walls and desert vistas that are absolutely breathtaking.

While several types of cruises are available at Desert Belle, the wine cruise is especially unique—and widely popular. The cruise sets sail every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 5:20 p.m., October through June. This is truly the ideal time to be outside in Arizona.

While you're sailing on the calm lake water, be on the lookout for wild mustangs that often frolic in this wild environment. Children are especially awestruck by these majestic creatures, but the sight is a delight for all who spot them. You might also see rams, birds, and other local animals.

On board, you'll enjoy some of the finest wines our state has to offer, including some award winners. Have a treat from the snack bar that serves water, soda, beer, cocktails, and plenty of goodies to munch on. Wine enthusiasts are sure to be delighted.

Then sit back and listen to some of the most talented bands and musicians in the valley playing on deck during every wine cruise while you sip, relax, and let the smooth tunes fill your ears. All in all, we consider this the best boat ride in Arizona, with so many special perks.

Where This Scenic Cruise Takes Place

Desert Belle Cruises takes place on Saguaro Lake, about 30 minutes from Mesa and Phoenix in central Arizona. The lake is actually a reservoir, nestled within the stunning Tonto National Forest. While Saguaro once provided an essential water supply to the surrounding desert towns, it's now a hub for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy boating and fishing.

Visiting this natural wonderland is undoubtedly one of the most unique things to do in Arizona. Apart from the stunning wildlife you'll encounter, you'll also be surrounded by larger-than-life Saguaro cacti, rugged cliffs, vibrant vegetation, and the most beautiful views of the sunset.

While the Desert Belle sunset wine cruise takes place in the early evening, there are plenty of things to do in Mesa before then. Consider exploring the Arizona Museum of Natural History, or go shopping and grab lunch on Main Street in Mesa's downtown area before heading to the lake.

Tips for Planning Your Sunset Wine Cruise

First things first: buying the tickets. While you can purchase them in person when you arrive, we recommend planning ahead and booking tickets online, as spots tend to fill up quickly. Note that cash is not accepted at the walk-up booth or at the boat's snack bar; both are card only. Tickets are $28 per adult and $17 per child aged 0 to 12.

Be sure to pack some sunglasses since you'll be cruising during sunset, along with binoculars or a camera with a decent zoom lens to catch photos of wildlife and scenic views. Have dinner plans lined up afterward, too, since only snacks are served on board.

While several different tours are offered, we can't imagine a better pairing than wine and Arizona sunsets on this lovely body of water. Have you been to this relaxing spring and summertime experience? If not, it's one of the best Arizona weekend getaway ideas we can imagine!

Book your tour today, and check out other Arizona attractions while you're at it, like this Lake Havasu destination guide.