riverboat cruise hot springs ar

Belle of Hot Springs

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• Handicap Accessible
• Pet-Friendly

Captain Jack's Lake Cruises

Lake Hamilton

501-547-2743

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Captain jack's lake cruise.

Daytime and Sunset Cruise: Book Online

Private Charters (your Group plus Boat with Captain) are our specialty. Standard Cruises cannot pick up at your dock, but Charters can. Call to book a charter cruise: 501-547-2743

Captain Jack has been boating on Lake Hamilton for over 30 years. He knows the lake and he knows how to navigate the risks on this busy lake.

Let Captain Jack do the driving while you enjoy the adventure.

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Cruise Lake Hamilton with Captain Jack

Boating with Captain Jack is convenient. With a Charter Cruise we can usually pick you up from your dock, depending upon the location.

Captain Jack's cruises and charters are less expensive than renting your own pontoon. Only $45 per person for our Day Cruises and $60 per person for our Sunset Cruise.

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Better than renting your own boat.

The pilot of a boat on Lake Hamilton has to watch for boats pulling tubes and skiers, tubers and skiers that have been dumped into the water, wave runners circling everywhere, fishing boats with lines in the water, plus other boats. Relax and let Captain Jack cruise you around the lake. Plus, it costs a lot less.

Why go through the hassle of renting your own boat? With Captain Jack's Lake Cruises there are no deposits, sales tax, fuel charges, or worries about damaging the boat or bringing it back late. You can relax and not stress over hitting another boat or running over a skier in the water. Lake time is all about having a fun and relaxing time.

With our private charters, you get all the benefits with none of the worries. Call to book a charter cruise: 501-547-2743

The Riverboat Cruise In Arkansas You Never Knew Existed

The Belle of Hot Springs offers a variety of unique cruises on Lake Hamilton, providing scenic views and dining experiences.

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Though riverboats don’t provide a whole lot of trade or transportation for Arkansans anymore, there’s more than one riverboat in the Natural State. Today those riverboats are focused on giving folks the opportunity to explore Arkansas waterways in a unique way. One riverboat in particular is especially impressive, and that glorious vessel is the Belle of Hot Springs. We’re not just talking about one of the cruises you can take on the Belle of Hot Springs today, we’re talking about several.

You can learn more about the cruises available by visiting their website.

The Belle of Hot Springs calls Lake Hamilton home. That’s where she docks, and that’s the beautiful body of water you’ll explore while aboard.

There are several different cruises to choose from on the Belle of Hot Springs.

For example, you can check out one of their lunch or dinner cruises if you feel like dining while you tour the lake.

You can even take the Sunset Dinner Dance Cruise, which lasts two hours and provides incredible sunset views of the lake.

There’s a dance floor that you’ll want to make use of on that cruise.

There is a pair of options for the sightseeing cruises—you can take those tours in the afternoon or the evening.

The sightseeing cruises are an hour and a half long and offer you a guided tour of Lake Hamilton from the best seats on the lake. The view from the upper deck is especially impressive.

Though there’s something to be said for sitting inside, where you can be on the water and stay cool in the summer and warm during the freezing months.

They also offer occasional booze cruises, which give you the chance to have some fun with adult beverages in a safe atmosphere.

The riverboat is also available for events, if you’re looking for a way to add a little extra ambiance to your special day.

From special holiday cruises to daily sightseeing adventures, there are a number of cruises to choose from on the Belle of Hot Springs, and you can learn all about them by clicking here.

The truth is, you can’t make a bad choice when it comes to cruises on Lake Hamilton aboard the Belle of Hot Springs. It’s an experience every Arkansan needs to have at least once.

For more tours you need to take in the Natural State, click here . This article contains a pretty good list of things to do while you're in town.

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Ride a Christmas Train Then Stay in a Christmas-Themed Hotel for a Holly Jolly Arkansas Adventure

Experience a magical Christmas adventure in Arkansas with a festive train ride and a stay at a holiday-themed hotel.

It’s easy to have a holly jolly Christmas in Arkansas because there are tons of festive adventures happening during the season. There are twinkling lights, parades, shopping, winter wonderlands, and more. So, there's no doubt that the Christmas season is joyous and delightful. One of the best ways to celebrate is to take a magical Christmas train in Arkansas and then spend the night at an enchanting hotel. Get ready to have the jolliest Christmas-themed adventure in Arkansas that you’ve had in years.

All aboard, all aboard! What better way to feel the holiday spirit than riding a Christmas train ? Head to Springdale Arkansas for the unforgettable Arkansas and Missouri Railroad Holiday Express .

Beginning in November, the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad will offer several rides leaving from Springdale that you can choose from. And the one-hour excursions are guaranteed to delight you in the best way. There are Christmas carols, hot chocolate, cookies, and more. You might even see Mr. and Mrs. Claus as well as some of their helpers on your trip. One thing's for sure -- you'll want to have your cameras to capture these unforgettable holiday moments.

Also, Santa will be waiting at the train depot, so don’t miss a chance to see him. And the kids can drop off their Christmas letters in his mailbox! This magical train ride is what Christmas dreams are made of. And it’s guaranteed to bring back childhood memories while spreading the joy of the holiday season.

After your nostalgic Christmas train adventure, drive a short distance to the historic town of Eureka Springs. That's where you'll be spending the night at the most festive holiday hotel in Arkansas.

Each year, the Crescent Hotel decks its halls with tons of holiday cheer. It's known around the country as one of the most regal hotels in the region, surrounded by the stunning Ozark Mountains. There's no wrong time of year to visit this stunning landmark, but winter proves to be especially lovely. Since 1886, Christmastime has been a cherished time of year at the hotel, which has become synonymous with family gatherings and memorable stays.

And this year, there are lots of Christmas-themed activities planned. Of course, the annual Christmas Tree Forest is a favorite of all the guests. Enjoy a magical stroll through 30 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and then vote for your favorite. In addition to the festive forest, you’ll love the hayrides, eggnog socials, gingerbread house decorating, Santa brunches, Christmas stories, and more. You'll want to bundle up in your coziest flannel and embrace all that the season has to offer!

This enchanting hotel is the perfect place to enjoy the jolliest Christmas in Arkansas this year. Its halls are brimming with the most delightful Christmas cheer that you can imagine. So, bring the family and enjoy all the magic of this holly jolly Christmas in Arkansas.

Are you ready for this enchanting Christmas-themed adventure? Visit the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad Holiday Express website to plan your trip. And be sure to follow the Crescent Hotel on Facebook for all the upcoming holiday events.

Did you know that Arkansas has a unique holiday tour that’s worthy of your bucket list? The spectacular helicopter Christmas Light tour is one you don’t want to miss. And speaking of Christmas, be sure to check out our ultimate gift-giving guide for the travel enthusiasts on your list this year!

Here’s The Story Behind The Massive Christ Of The Ozarks Statue In Arkansas

The Christ of the Ozarks statue in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a massive and iconic landmark with a fascinating construction story.

The Christ of the Ozarks statue is truly a remarkable sight. Several stories high and weighing millions of pounds, this Eureka Springs Jesus statue is absolutely massive. However, the size isn’t the only interesting thing about the iconic statue. The story behind its construction is equally as impressive and worth a mention. If you’ve never seen this statue in person, take it from me, you’ll be blown away by it. Read on to learn more about this Jesus statue in Arkansas.

Overlooking the picturesque village of Eureka Springs, the Christ of the Ozarks statue stands at a towering 67 feet and weighs over 2 million pounds!

It was built in 1966, and has been one of the most visited attractions in the Ozarks ever since.

The statue’s fame is no surprise – it’s quite remarkable…and huge!

To put its size into perspective, the face is about 15 feet in height, while the hands, from wrist to fingertip, measure about 7 feet, which is taller than most humans.

And with a 65-foot "wingspan," it’s nearly as wide as it is tall.

Constructing the massive statue was no easy feat – especially when you learn that every inch of it was built by hand.

The grueling construction process was only made more difficult by the statue’s location. It’s nestled atop Magnetic Mountain, at an altitude of 1,500 feet.

In order to secure the massive sculpture, its foundation had to be welded into the rock of Magnetic Mountain. What’s more, it required 340 tons of concrete interlaced with steel.

As things progressed, workers had to build an elevator in order to reach the higher portions of the 7-story statue.

The effort was definitely worth it, as Christ of the Ozarks is the fourth-largest Jesus statue in the world and the largest in the U.S.

Often, Christ of the Ozarks is visited by those attending The Great Passion Play, which is performed in an amphitheater not far from the famous statue. You do NOT have to attend the play to visit, though.

Although, you might want to consider attending since it's the "number one attended outdoor drama in America," according to the Institute of Outdoor Drama in Greenville, North Carolina.

There is no cost to view Christ of the Ozarks; however, donations are appreciated. For more info on this iconic Jesus statue, call (479) 253-9200. You can also visit the Great Passion Play  website.

So, did you know the story behind this famous statue in Eureka Springs? Ever viewed Christ of the Ozarks in person? If so, what do you think? Tell us!

Christ of the Ozarks is one of the state’s most recognizable sites, but it’s just the beginning of the must-see places in Arkansas . Check out our previous article about some of Arkansas' coolest underrated attractions that belong on your list.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/coolest-underrated-attractions-ar/

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• Hot Springs

Belle of Hot Springs Riverboat

5200 Central Highway 7, Hot Springs , Arkansas 71913 USA

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“250 passenger riverboat”

Your Belle of Hot Springs Riverboat ticket is your passport to beautiful Lake Hamilton. Sit back and relax aboard the Belle, a 250 passenger riverboat, and enjoy the captain's narration as he unfolds secrets of America's "Spa City." His entertaining tour includes million dollar mansions, natural islands, quaint resorts, panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains, colorful anecdotes, humorous stories, and well researched historical information. The Belle has sailed beautiful Lake Hamilton since 1984 and continues to entertain visitors to Hot Springs National Park on a daily basis. Enjoy our 15 mile cruises for sightseeing, lunch, or our most popular cruise, the sunset dinner/dance cruise.

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12 of the best things to do in Egypt, from Nile river cruises to hot air balloon rides

E gypt, a link between northeast  Africa  and the  Middle East  where ancient landmarks meet the capital  Cairo’s  lively hub of culture and culinary delights, is on the rise as a tourism hotspot.

Swapping classic European holiday destinations for some winter sun at Egypt ’s affordable  Red Sea  resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and  Hurghada  has become a cost-effective choice for UK travellers chasing the sun between September and May.

The Nile River, vast desertscapes and a treasure trove of Unesco World Heritage sites from the Pyramids of Giza to the tombs of pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings await holidaymakers. Think a wealth of cruising, diving, cooking and navigating the stalls of colourful bazaars on an Egyptian holiday itinerary.

We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do for one-of-a-kind activities and adventures to Egypt’s ancient and contemporary attractions.

Read more: The winter sun destination you hadn’t thought of – for stunning beaches and no jet lag

Cruise the Nile

Africa’s longest river, the 4,000-mile-long Nile, has been a lifeline for Egyptian travel for thousands of years, and it’s the ideal passage to see all of Egypt’s ancient relics. Cruise in a floating hotel between Luxor and Aswan for a taste of luxury; the gentle journey is a welcome escape from the chaotic traffic and busy bazaars of cities such as Cairo .

The scenery is one for all the senses as you meander past wildlife (like the Nile crocodile) on the lush riverbanks, fertile farmland, tomb-riddled desertscapes and preserved Unesco treasures such as the legendary pyramids.

Sandboard in the desert

Thrill seekers of every age will thrive as they surf the Saharan dunes on a desert safari tour. Trade the mountains for the desert in Egypt’s sea of sands and strap on a board to glide down the smooth golden hills.

The yellow and blue landscape of the Great Sand Sea in Egypt’s western desert is considered one of the world’s best spots for sandboarding, while Egypt’s Sinai desert hosts steep dunes such as Haduda and El-Safra that rise to 150m high for the ultimate daredevils.

Scuba dive the Red Sea

One of the most popular diving destinations in the world, the Red Sea’s warm waters are home to the coral gardens of the famed Ras Mohamed National Park in the north and the shivers of sharks off the Brothers Islands east of El Quesir.

Find underwater waterfalls, shipwrecks like the SS Thistlegorm and healthy corals teeming with marine life on affordable dives. Experienced divers can take a several-day dive voyage on liveaboard ships, while conservation-conscious sites such as Marsa Nakari in Marsa Alam are introducing more eco-diving experiences.

Read more: This boho enclave is the perfect alternative to Egypt’s touristy Red Sea resorts

Shop at Khan el-Khalili bazaar

Think artisan workshops, traditional crafts and colourful culture in the Khan el-Khalili souk (marketplace). Weave your way through a labyrinth of leather, spices, perfumes, essences and oils in the historic centre of Cairo, where Egypt’s most famous market dates back to the 14th century.

The lively trading hub has an unmissable vibrant atmosphere for tourists on the hunt for opulent ceramics, unique textiles, Arabian lanterns and gold goods.

Dune buggy in the desert

Steer through the dunes in an off-road dune buggy on a desert safari to local villages and rolling ridges for a guided Egyptian adventure. You’ll drive in style, rocking the ‘scarf and sunglasses’ sand protection combination, to the Sinai desert for those holidaying in Sharm El Sheikh or the Arabian desert from Hurghada. Break for herbal tea in a traditional Bedouin tent and stay till sunset while speeding around the sands – it’s what dune buggies were made for.

Swim in the Siwa Oasis

In the far Western Desert, hundreds of natural springs and salt pools in striking shades of turquoise form the Siwa Oasis. The hot and cold springs resemble the rugged carvings of a precious gemstone, the ideal surroundings for some R&R.

A high concentration of salt means swimming in the waters free from marine life is more like floating as you experience an intense buoyancy – so lie back and relax under the Egyptian sun.

Sleep in the White Desert

The White Desert National Park in the Farafa Depression, western Egypt, offers adventures to an isolated, otherworldly landscape. The vast sci-fi scenery has a moon-like surface, with its sandstorm-eroded chalk and limestone formations, and the barren natural wonder is a unique host for a multi-day camping experience.

Travel by jeep to set up your Bedouin-style campsite and hunker down for a night under the stars with the fennec foxes – remember thermal layers though, as it gets surprisingly cold in the desert when the sun goes down.

Take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor

For a bird's eye view of the archaeological museum of the West Bank, take to the sky at sunrise and join the sea of vibrant hot-air balloons that float over Luxor. See the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Colossi of Memnon and the Nile River from a new perspective on a bucket-list ride that doesn’t break the bank.

Hike Mount Sinai at sunrise

Early birds catch the worm on a hike up Mount Sinai, and the summit views of jagged mountains and the vast desert make a sensational backdrop for a sunrise. It’s a 2,285m overnight trek to the top of the storied mountain, thought to have been the site where Moses received the 10 commandments. Hikers can enjoy breakfast at one of the world’s oldest Christian monasteries, Unesco-listed St. Catherine’s, at the foot of the mountain after the climb.

Visit the Valley of the Kings

Carved from the rocks of a valley on the West Bank of the Nile, the grandeur of the Valley of the Kings is an easy visit from Luxor. From around 1550 BC the pharaohs, nobles and royals from 18th-century dynasties of the New Kingdom period were buried with their possessions in preparation for the afterlife. The valley is the resting place of over 60 ancient Egyptian tombs, including the tomb of young king Tutankhamun, one of the most iconic at the burial grounds.

Read more: A first look inside world’s largest museum – with 22 mummies and an Indiana Jones moment

Climb the Giza Pyramids

A trip to Egypt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, and chances are you’re familiar with the Cairo sight, but the highlight of any Egypt itinerary is taking a trip inside one of the three interiors open to visitors.

Ticketed at less than £20pp, you can brave a sweltering climb inside Khufu’s Great Pyramid and see the Queen’s burial chamber, the Grand Gallery and the unforgettable red granite walls of the King’s Chamber via a steep tunnel.

Learn new skills at a Cairo cooking class

Get hands-on with Egyptian culture and cuisine at an intimate cooking class experience with the locals in Cairo. Culinary tours to bustling street food and spice stands with generous servings of authentic Egyptian food such as hearty ful medames and hawawshi promise tantalising flavours and traditional skills at every stop.

Read more: Cairo city guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Egypt’s capital

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