By Land or By Sea — Corporate Cruise vs. Golf Course Tournament for Iowa Team Building

The warm days and pleasant evenings of Iowa’s spring and summer present the perfect backdrop for hosting team building events. While there are a vast variety of venues available for this type of gathering, two of the most popular— boats and golf courses — seem tailor made for teams. Wondering which is good for your group? Find out here:

There’s something almost magical about sailing away on a boat. Whether it’s a yacht, a paddlewheel, or a pontoon, leaving behind the worries and cares that exist on dry land can be a welcoming respite. What’s more, the feeling of distance from daily life can actually bode well for team building, as it offers participants more bandwidth to focus on the task at hand.

A local favorite as famous as Arnold's Park itself, the Queen II (also known as the “Flagship of the Iowa Navy”) is a large steamer boat ready to transport your crew across the sparkling waters of West Lake Okoboji.  With panoramic views of picturesque and historic sites, the Queen II offers space for up to 200. Enjoy delicious custom-catered meals, a full-service bar, and a dynamic atmosphere ideal for group gatherings.

Dubuque River Rides will take your team full speed ahead on The Spirit of Dubuque, an authentic dual paddle wheeler with room for up to 250 passengers. The boat features an enclosed and air conditioned dining deck for guest comfort, while the upper deck is open for sightseeing. A host of differing themed cruises, such as a murder mystery cruise or a fall foliage cruise, are ideal ideas for bringing your team together. 

Adrift and scanning the horizon for new ideas? Set sail with J.A. White Riverboat. Elegant and sophisticated, the paddle wheeler is decorated in the style of the Golden Era of river travel. Charters enjoy lunch or brunch cruises, cocktail cruises with an hors d ‘oeuvres buffet, or a leisurely, scenic boat ride with complimentary iced tea and lemonade. It’s certain that your crew will benefit from the on-board ambiance and the splendor of the surrounding shoreline.

While the serenity of sail is unquestionable, golf enthusiasts insist that the tranquility found on a verdant golf course is just as soothing. In addition, a spirited golf tournament inspires both teamwork and competitiveness among its participants.

Take your team to tee up at the one of three unique courses at Willow Creek Golf Course for 27-holes of amazing golf. Picturesque and pretty, each course is designed to provide challenge and enjoyment. As a full-service golf facility, they offer group and tournament packages which include green fees, cart fees, and range balls. On-site banquet facilities feature dramatic views of the course, along with professional catering staff.

Located in the heart of historic Ames, Coldwater Golf Links is your sweet spot for a team tournament. The 18-hole golf course is meticulously maintained as a park-like setting amidst rolling, majestic greens. The professionals at the award-winning course provide all the assistance you’ll need for your group event or tournament, from planning to production.

Boost employee morale and performance with team building at Okoboji View Golf Course. Not only is it one of Okoboji’s premier golf clubs with a memorable 18-hole golf course, but your group will also enjoy the club’s outstanding food, practice facilities, and pro shop. The newly remodeled restaurant boasts a large outdoor deck with seating for 40, with capacity for 90 inside the restaurant.

Whether by land or by sea, your team is sure to build confidence, leadership, and improved performance at any one of these exceptional Iowa event venues.