An excursion on a desert lake in a party boat, which is basically a platform mounted on pontoons and covered with a canopy, is a tamer way to enjoy the meeting of blue water and red rock. The party boats on Saguaro Lake are a little closer to Phoenix, and they're newer and nicer at Lake Pleasant. But the beauty and relative calm of Canyon Lake make it our choice as the best place to rent a party boat. First comes Saguaro Lake, whose proximity to Phoenix brings out rowdy hordes. Then after Canyon come Apache and Roosevelt.
Canyon Lake is a graceful gem.
It mixes wide expanses with narrow channels, although there is plenty of room to maneuver. It's not cheap, but there's plenty of room for extra wallets.