Crater Lake Boat Tour
Experience the deepest lake in the US from its pristine waters on an unforgettable boat tour, with options to explore Wizard Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Crater Lake Boat Tour
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the deepest lake in the US from its pristine waters on an unforgettable boat tour, with options to explore Wizard Island.
"The Wizard Island Boat Tour was absolutely amazing and worth every single penny."
Book Boat Tour Tickets Early
Popular boat tours, especially to Wizard Island, sell out quickly. Book your Crater Lake boat tour reservation months in advance!
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The Cleetwood Cove Trail is steep and rocky. Proper footwear is essential for the hike down to the boat dock.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wizard Island Exploration
Wizard Island
Hike to the summit of this volcanic cinder cone for panoramic views of Crater Lake. A truly unique experience!
+1Deep Blue Waters
Crater Lake
Witness the unparalleled, vibrant blue of the world's cleanest and clearest lake. The color is simply breathtaking.
The Old Man
Crater Lake
Spot the iconic 'Old Man,' a 40-foot submerged log that has become a cultural landmark in the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Crater Lake Boat Tour in Advance
Prepare for the Cleetwood Cove Trail
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tour Tickets Early
Popular boat tours, especially to Wizard Island, sell out quickly. Book your Crater Lake boat tour reservation months in advance!
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The Cleetwood Cove Trail is steep and rocky. Proper footwear is essential for the hike down to the boat dock.
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited services on the boat and Wizard Island. Pack plenty of water and snacks for your trip.
Check Weather Forecast
Weather at Crater Lake can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures, even in summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tour Tickets Early
Popular boat tours, especially to Wizard Island, sell out quickly. Book your Crater Lake boat tour reservation months in advance!
Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The Cleetwood Cove Trail is steep and rocky. Proper footwear is essential for the hike down to the boat dock.
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited services on the boat and Wizard Island. Pack plenty of water and snacks for your trip.
Check Weather Forecast
Weather at Crater Lake can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures, even in summer.
Swim if You Dare!
The water is incredibly cold but refreshing! Many visitors enjoy a dip after the hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the Crater Lake boat tours, calling them an amazing and worthwhile experience. The stunning blue waters, knowledgeable guides, and unique perspectives from the lake are major highlights. The challenging hike to the dock is frequently mentioned but deemed worth the effort for the unforgettable views and the chance to explore Wizard Island.
"The Wizard Island Boat Tour was absolutely amazing and worth every single penny. We had Captain Pam at the helm—an excellent navigator who made the ride smooth and safe from start to finish. Our tour guide (I wish I could remember his name—he was from Pittsburgh, PA!) was a fantastic storyteller who brought Crater Lake’s history to life with humor, knowledge, and passion.
For two hours, we were treated to an incredible narration of the “Seven Wonders” of Crater Lake, and you could tell he loved sharing the lake’s unbelievable history with visitors. The whole tour was well-paced, with plenty of time to stop, take photos, and just take in the jaw-dropping scenery.
A major highlight was cruising into the surreal teal-blue water and getting up close to two waterfalls. Absolutely magical.
If you’re visiting Crater Lake, this tour is a must. It’s the kind of experience that sticks with you long after it’s over."
Shelah Kelso
"My husband and I took the standard lake tour around Crater Lake and it was absolutely beautiful! The colors looked liked it was photoshopped! Our captain and tour guide did a great job explaining all of the beautiful sites around the lake. It really is fascinating to learn how the lake actually formed
Highly recommend taking this tour! 10/10!!"
Emilee Hunter
"What an exceptional experience! Boating out to Wizard Island was one of the highlights of visiting Crater Lake NP. The boats are nice and fairly comfortable, and the crews were friendly and helpful. I definitely recommend this tour!!!"
Christian Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The only access to the boat tours is via the Cleetwood Cove Trail. This is a steep, 1.1-mile (one-way) hike with a 700-foot elevation change. It's the only trail that leads to the lake shore where the boats depart.
Yes, there is a parking area for the Cleetwood Cove Trail. However, it fills up very quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Public transportation options to Crater Lake National Park are limited. The Crater Lake Trolley operates seasonally from nearby towns, but it's best to check their schedule and routes in advance. Most visitors drive their own vehicles.
Drive times vary depending on your starting point. From Medford, Oregon, it's about a 1.5-hour drive. From Bend, Oregon, it's approximately 2 hours.
During the summer season, a free park shuttle operates along the Rim Drive, connecting various viewpoints and trailheads, including the Cleetwood Cove Trailhead. Check the park's official website for current shuttle information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for the Crater Lake boat tour varies depending on the tour type. The standard lake tour and the Wizard Island tour have different pricing. It's recommended to check the official Crater Lake Hospitality website for the most up-to-date Crater Lake boat tour prices and availability.
You can book your Crater Lake boat tour tickets directly through Crater Lake Hospitality, the official concessionaire for boat tours. It's highly recommended to book online in advance as tours often sell out.
Crater Lake boat tours typically operate from late June or early July through September, weather permitting. The season is relatively short, so plan your visit accordingly.
Yes, you will need a valid Crater Lake National Park entrance pass to access the park and the Cleetwood Cove Trailhead. These can be purchased at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
While it's possible to find same-day tickets if tours haven't sold out, it's highly unlikely, especially for the popular Wizard Island tour. Booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The standard lake tour circles the lake, offering views of the caldera and the 'Old Man.' The Wizard Island tour includes a stop on Wizard Island, allowing you to explore the island and hike to its summit. The Wizard Island tour is longer and more comprehensive.
The standard lake tour typically lasts about 2 hours. The Wizard Island tour is longer, often around 5 hours, including the time spent on the island.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Crater Lake from the shore at the Cleetwood Cove boat dock area. The water is extremely cold, but many visitors take a refreshing dip.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the hike. A light jacket is also recommended as it can be cool on the water.
The boat tour itself is generally suitable for children. However, the Cleetwood Cove Trail hike down to the dock is strenuous and may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The boat tour offers unique perspectives of the lake's caldera walls, Wizard Island, and waterfalls. The views from Wizard Island's summit are also spectacular for panoramic shots.
Yes, the boat provides excellent vantage points for capturing the stunning blue waters and surrounding landscape. Be prepared for potential spray and use a protective case for your camera or phone.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, the lake's vibrant blue is impressive throughout the day.
Drones are generally prohibited within Crater Lake National Park, including on boat tours, to protect wildlife and preserve the visitor experience. Always check the latest park regulations.
While there are no specific photography restrictions on Wizard Island itself, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Stay on marked trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Parents should assess their children's stamina and hiking ability before committing. Consider bringing a child carrier for very young children.Once on the boat, the experience is generally enjoyable. The guides are often engaging, and the stunning views are captivating for all ages.
If your family is up for the hike, the Wizard Island tour offers more to explore, but the standard lake tour is also a great option for a shorter duration. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as options are limited. The incredibly cold water might deter younger children from swimming, but the sheer beauty of the lake will likely leave a lasting impression. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 The park entrance fee is also a factor, but it's valid for several days, allowing you to explore more of the park.To save on food, pack your own picnic lunch and snacks. There are limited dining options within the park, and they can be pricey.
+1 Consider camping in or near the park if you're looking for more affordable accommodation options compared to hotels. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The intense, almost otherworldly blue of the lake is a photographer's delight. Consider visiting during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the most dramatic lighting. The Wizard Island tour provides ample opportunities for diverse shots, from the island's volcanic landscape to sweeping panoramas.
+1 Be prepared for potential water spray on the boat, so a waterproof camera or protective casing is highly recommended. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cleetwood Cove Trail: Your Gateway to the Lake
+1 The trail itself is well-maintained but can be rocky and uneven in places, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must. Plan for at least 30-45 minutes to hike down and a similar, if not longer, time to hike back up, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views.Many travelers emphasize the importance of hydration and pacing on this trail. Bringing plenty of water is crucial, as there are no water sources along the trail itself. The reward for your effort is reaching the pristine shores of Crater Lake, where the boat tours depart and where you can take a dip in the famously cold, clear water.
+1 The experience of standing at the edge of such a deep and vibrant lake, accessible only after a challenging hike, is often described as incredibly rewarding and a highlight of any visit to the park.It's worth noting that the Cleetwood Cove Trail is sometimes subject to closures due to snow or trail maintenance, so it's always wise to check the park's official website for current conditions before your visit. The effort involved in hiking this trail is consistently cited as a worthwhile endeavor for those seeking the full Crater Lake boat tour experience.
Crater Lake Boat Tours: An Unforgettable Perspective
The tours are led by knowledgeable National Park Service rangers or trained guides who share fascinating insights into the lake's formation, geology, and history, often weaving in local legends and cultural significance. The most popular option is the Wizard Island tour, which includes a stop at the island itself. Wizard Island is a volcanic cinder cone that rose from the lakebed during its formation. Visitors can disembark and hike to the island's summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Cascade Mountains.
+1 This excursion typically lasts around 5 hours, providing ample time for exploration and photography. For those seeking a shorter experience, a standard lake tour circles the lake without stopping, offering a comprehensive overview of the caldera's features, including the famous 'Old Man' submerged log. Booking your Crater Lake boat tour tickets in advance is absolutely essential, as these tours are in high demand and often sell out months ahead of time, especially during the summer season.
+1 The tours operate seasonally, typically from late June through September, so planning your visit within this window is key. The experience is widely praised for its beauty, educational value, and the sheer awe it inspires, making it a must-do for many visitors to Crater Lake National Park. Swimming in Crater Lake: A Chilly Adventure
+1 This extreme cold is due to the lake's depth and the fact that it is primarily fed by snowmelt, with very little surface runoff. Despite the cold, many visitors, emboldened by the hike down the Cleetwood Cove Trail, take the plunge.The designated swimming area is at the shore near the boat dock, accessible only via the Cleetwood Cove Trail.
It's important to be aware of your limits and to swim with caution. Many people opt for a quick dip rather than an extended swim. The clarity of the water is astounding, and the experience of swimming in such a pristine, deep lake is often described as surreal and invigorating. Some visitors even mention filling their water bottles with the incredibly clean lake water, a testament to its purity. While the boat tours themselves don't typically include swimming stops, the opportunity to swim is available before or after your tour, provided you are comfortable with the hike and the cold. It's a unique way to connect with the lake on a more personal level, and for many, it's a highlight that adds an extra layer of adventure to their Crater Lake visit.
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