Take a ride on the wild side at Arizona Ducks

NORTH PHOENIX – The Arizona Ducks are giving a whole new meaning to “all-terrain vehicle.”

Everyone knows it’s dangerous to cross a flooded area in a typical vehicle. But there is a craft made exactly for that kind of adventure. The Arizona Ducks amphibious 2 1/2 ton World War II landing craft is made to drive on land, as well as float through any amount of water. The amazing “ducks” are really called DU KW, which is the name given by the military and its maker, General Motors. The letters DUKW stand for the year it was made (1942), its six wheel drive ability, and its amphibious nature. The Duck was made during WWII to carry supplies from the large carriers right up and onto shore where they would drop them off to waiting troops, pick up some wounded soldiers, and then head back out to the larger ships.

Now this unique craft is available for rides for everyone. Arizona Ducks is bringing the Ducks to Phoenix. All over the country – Boston, Seattle, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, and more – major cities have the Ducks, and now Phoenix has joined the list.

Arizona Ducks saw the potential to bring something to Phoenix that is very popular in other cities, but no one had done in Arizona. Growing up in the Midwest, the owners had been familiar with the Ducks and had fond memories of riding them. Duck rides appeal to everyone; it’s a great way for tourists to see the area and locals riding the Duck can have a great experience in a unique vehicle with an amazing history.

Duck tours here in Arizona operate at Lake Pleasant and make the most of the desert by doing light offroading to see the desert vegetation and fantastic views of the lake before driving straight down a boat launch for a big splashdown!

At this point, the driver changes some levers and away the Duck goes as a boat. The Duck then spends 45 minutes on the water while the operators talk about the lake and the history of Duck. One of the highlights of the water portion of the trip is that guests get a chance to drive this 1945 WWII veteran themselves. History buffs, kids, and kids at heart absolutely love this part! The operators even go out on the front of the Duck to get a great picture of guests driving.

The driver takes back over and navigates the Duck up and out of the water and then returns to the ‘Duck shack’ where riders can get their souvenir pictures or something to drink.

The Duck can seat 20 people comfortably, so it’s great for families, groups, clubs, work functions, or just to get out and make a splash in the desert! Visit www.arizonaducks.com for more information, schedules, and pictures of the Duck in action. Call 1(877) 293-8571 to make your reservations.