Lake Powell, Arizona and Utah

by Lisa Matte

The future's looking ship-shape when you choose to exchange wedding vows while cruising the tranquil waters of Lake Powell. Straddling the Arizona/Utah border, the giant man-made lake is nothing short of dazzling. Striking sandstone formations in hues of pink and orange jut from the surface of the deep blue water creating a vibrant display of color as you and your betrothed stand side-by-side surrounded by loved ones atop the deck of a brilliant white boat powered by a graceful paddle wheel.

Gazing toward the horizon and it's difficult to imagine that Lake Powell didn't even exist four decades ago. The man-made body of water was created over a period of 17 years beginning in 1963 upon completion of the Glen Canyon Dam. Looking back through history, it's amazing to note that almost no one involved in the huge construction project designed to serve the purely functional purpose of meeting a growing demand for water and energy in Californian, Arizona, and Utah ever imagined the mammoth lake would eventually become the diverse recreational destination it is today.

The 186-mile long waterscape, including close to 100 water-filled canyons and 1960 miles of shoreline, is a haven for houseboaters. Make no mistake, though. These are no rickety cabins set on rafts. The houseboats that cruise Lake Powell range in size from 36- to 59-feet in length and are chock-full of luxurious amenities including gourmet cooking facilities, private sleeping quarters, and state-of-the-art sound systems. And while the paddlewheel boats that cruise Lake Powell can accommodate wedding parties of up 100, the houseboats are perfect are perfect for more intimate gatherings of up to a dozen friends and relatives. Heck, you could even choose to get married and honeymoon on the same boat. The only problem may be getting your guests to leave the boat at the end of your wedding day!

For more information about weddings at Lake Powell, call Karen Hoffmeyer at 800/341-8934 or send her an e-mail at hoffmeyer-karen@aramark.com. You can also check out the Lake Powell website at www.visitlakepowell.com

Copyright Lisa Matte

Boston-based travel writer Lisa Matte is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers. Author of City-Smart Boston (Avalon), Lisa's work has appeared in numerous national and regional publications including American Way, Skylights, AAA Journey, Bridal Guide, Coastal Living, Outbound Traveler, and Travel Weekly.