Crater Lake Boat Tours: Open And Worth The Trip?

Crater Lake, located in Oregon, is a popular tourist destination, attracting nearly half a million visitors each year. The lake, which is the deepest in the United States, was formed by a volcanic eruption over 7,000 years ago and is known for its pristine blue waters and picturesque surroundings. One of the best ways to experience the lake is by taking a boat tour, which offers visitors a chance to learn about the geology and history of the area, as well as take in the breathtaking views. In this article, we will explore the different boat tour options available, the booking process, and what visitors can expect from the experience. We will also discuss the practical considerations, such as the hike to the dock and the amenities available on the boats. So, are Crater Lake boat tours open?

The challenging hike to the dock

The Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only legal way to access the lake, and it is important to plan ahead for this challenging hike. Visitors should ensure they have the necessary stamina and fitness to navigate the trail, especially the steep ascent back to the top. It is recommended to bring adequate water, snacks, and appropriate clothing, as the hike can be strenuous and the weather conditions can vary.

The boat tour operators offer some amenities at the dock, such as bottled water and other drinks, as well as toilets. However, there are no bathrooms on board the boats, so it is advisable to use the facilities before and after the tour.

The hike to the dock is just the beginning of the Crater Lake adventure. Once visitors reach the lake, they can enjoy a boat tour that takes them around the lake's perimeter, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and forests. The tour also includes stops at fascinating formations like Wizard Island and Phantom Ship. For those seeking an even greater challenge, there is the option to hike to the top of Wizard Island for truly spectacular vistas.

Tour times and ticket prices

The standard lake cruise costs $41 for adults, $27 for children aged 3-11, and infants under 3 are not permitted. The Wizard Island cruise costs $57 for adults and $36 for children, and infants under 3 are not permitted on this tour either.

Volcano Boat Cruises offer tour tickets to Wizard Island for $57 per adult. The tour leaves Cleetwood Cove at 9:30 a.m. and returns at 2:30 p.m. or 5 p.m. Reservations are advised, and overnight camping on Wizard Island is not allowed.

Crater Lake Tours, which do not include a full tour of Wizard Island, cost $40 for adult tickets.

To book a boat tour, you can make a reservation in advance or purchase tickets at the parking area for the Cleetwood Cove Trailhead. The number to call for reservations is 888-77-4CRATER (888-774-2728).

It is important to note that to reach the dock for boarding the boats, visitors must hike down and back up the Cleetwood Cove Trail, which is a challenging 1-mile trail that drops 700 feet to the lake shore. This hike can take 30-45 minutes each way and may be difficult for some visitors.

What you'll see on the tour

Boat tours at Crater Lake National Park are currently closed for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. When they reopen, here is what you can expect to see on the tour:

The boat tours at Crater Lake offer a delightful hike and a chance to learn about the folklore and geology of this impressive natural spectacle. The tour includes various stops, including Wizard Island and Phantom Ship, two of the lake's most fascinating formations. The boats will also take you around the perimeter of the lake, giving you up-close views of the island and other natural formations.

The lake itself is a pristine body of water, formed 7,700 years ago by a volcanic eruption. The snowmelt filled the caldera, creating a lake that is more than 1,940 feet deep. The lake is surrounded by towering cliffs and verdant forests, attracting nearly half a million visitors each year. The blue waters of the lake are a sight to behold, and the surrounding trees make for incredible photos.

On the boat tour, you will learn about the natural history of the lake from an on-board guide, including how the eruption of Mount Mazama created the lake's islands and landmarks, and how the snowmelt and depth of the lake contribute to its striking blue colour. You will also get to see the craggy, lava-formed face of Llao Rock and the tiny waterfalls that trickle into the lake.

The tour offers a unique perspective of the lake and its surrounding beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photography and moments of reflection. The boat tours are typically two hours long, and visitors must be prepared for potential sun exposure, wind, and occasional rough waters.

How to book a boat tour

Boat tours at Crater Lake National Park are currently closed for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Typically, boat tours run from late June to mid-August or mid-September, depending on the weather. When they reopen, here is how you can book a boat tour.

You can book a boat tour reservation in advance or purchase tickets on the day of the tour. Tickets can be purchased online or at the parking area for the Cleetwood Cove Trailhead. Same-day tickets can be purchased up to two hours before departure at the Mazama Village Cabin/Campground Registration Desk, Crater Lake Lodge Front Desk, and the Cleetwood Cove Kiosk. Please note that only half of the available boat tour seats are available for advance reservations. If tours are canceled, the company will try to accommodate guests with advance reservations on the next available tour or issue a refund.

To make a reservation, you can call 888-77-4CRATER (888-774-2728) or contact Explor Crater Lake at 866-292-6720 for ticket prices, tour descriptions, and reservations. Explor Crater Lake is a concessionaire for the park and offers daily boat tours in the summer. A park ranger is aboard most tours, which circumnavigate the caldera. Captains and boats are US Coast Guard-certified.

Boat tours depart from Cleetwood Cove Boat Dock on the north side of Crater Lake. To access the dock, visitors must hike the challenging 1.1-mile to 2.2-mile round-trip Cleetwood Cove Trail, which involves descending and ascending a steep trail with a 700-foot drop in elevation. The hike can take 30 to 60 minutes, and the boat tour itself lasts about two hours.

Children must be at least three years old to join the tour, and those 12 and under are required to wear a life vest provided at the docks. There are no bathrooms on board the boats, but composting toilets are available before and after the tour.

When booking a boat tour, carefully consider what clothing and supplies you will need for two hours on an open boat. Passengers may be exposed to sun, wind, rain, and cold temperatures, and it is recommended to dress in layers and wear good hiking shoes. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also suggested, along with a camera or smartphone to capture photos.

What to bring and wear on the tour

Boat tours at Crater Lake are currently closed for the 2025 and 2026 season. When they reopen, here is what you should bring and wear on the tour:

What to Wear

• Good hiking shoes—the trail to the dock is steep and strenuous with a lot of elevation change
• Layers for potential inclement or cold weather—it can get very cold on the lake despite warm temperatures on shore
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against sun exposure

What to Bring

• A camera or smartphone to capture the views
• A life vest if you have a child under 12—these are also provided at the docks

Frequently asked questions