Lake Geneva Santa Cruise Offers Festive Holiday Boat Rides for Families

This holiday season, Lake Geneva Cruise Line is inviting families to enjoy the magic of its annual Santa Cruise, a light-filled boat ride to Santa’s secret lakeside hideaway.

Brightly lit Santa Claus display by the lakeshore in Lake Geneva, with the words 'And to all a Good Night' in festive lights.

Running for the 7th year, this seasonal attraction begins the day after Thanksgiving and continues through December 29. With an “All Aboard” theme, guests can expect plenty of holiday cheer, glowing lights, and music to help ring in the season.

(If you’re looking for more seasonal activities around Milwaukee, check out our comprehensive Holiday Fun Guide for events, light displays, and other holiday happenings the whole family can enjoy.)

The 40-minute Santa Cruise departs from Williams Bay, offering passengers a warm and cozy journey on enclosed, heated historic boats.

The illuminated entrance to the Lake Geneva Santa Cruise, decorated with holiday lights and festive soldiers, as families walk toward the check-in area.

Each ride includes live narration, guiding guests through the story of their voyage to Santa’s hideaway.

Along the way, they’ll take in brightly lit shore displays, leading to a special moment when the boat reaches Santa’s hideaway. Here, Santa himself appears to wave and share the names of children who made it onto his “nice list,” much to the delight of young passengers.

A large, historic boat on Lake Geneva covered in colorful holiday lights, reflecting in the water during the Santa Cruise.

This year, adult-only cruises are also available, offering a slightly longer, one-hour experience that includes holiday karaoke for added entertainment.

Additional Highlights

  • Christmas Festival: Before boarding, ticket holders can stroll through the Christmas Festival at the winter harbor in Williams Bay. Hosted by the 531 Fund, the festival features decorated displays by local non-profits and a chance to enter raffles for prizes.
  • Santa’s Bar: Visitors can stop by Santa’s Bar for festive beverages available for both kids and adults, which can be enjoyed on board.
Santa's lakeside cabin at the Santa Cruise destination, decorated with lights and toy soldier figures, as Santa greets visitors from the doorway.

Cruise Details and Ticket Information

  • Dates: Cruises operate daily from November 29 through December 29, except December 24 and 25.
  • Departure Location: Winter harbor at Gage Marine, near Pier 290 (1 Liechty Drive, Williams Bay).
  • Pricing:
    • Regular Dates: $25 for adults, $23 for seniors (65+), $13 for children (4–17).
    • Prime Dates: $31 for adults, $29 for seniors, $19 for children.
    • Children aged 3 and under ride free.

Tickets can be purchased online, and advance booking is recommended due to the event’s popularity. For more information or to buy tickets, visit santacruiselakegeneva.com.

If you’re hoping to catch up with Santa in more places around town, our Where to Meet Santa Around Milwaukee guide has all the best meet-and-greet locations and photo spots.

For even more enchanting events designed for young imaginations, explore our Magical Holiday Experiences for Kids and make this season truly unforgettable.

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