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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
