Looking into Lake Tahoe boat tours for your next vacation? I’ve got you covered!
Lake Tahoe is one of the most stunningly beautiful places on earth, and there is no better way to experience it than by getting on the water. From sightseeing cruises that provide breathtaking views of Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters and lush forests to sailing tours that let you watch the sun set behind the Sierras while enjoying a dash of adventure, these Lake Tahoe boat tours have something for everyone!
Lake Tahoe has always been a special place to me. I’ve been going there my entire life and have wonderful memories of boating around the lake with my mom, aunt, and cousins. John and I just got back from a weekend getaway where our Lake Tahoe boat tour was the highlight of our trip. I can’t wait to share that experience with the boys this fall, knowing full well how unforgettable experiencing the lake from the water can be.
Lake Tahoe boat tours are the perfect activity for families looking to explore all that Lake Tahoe has to offer, and I’m happy to share the top 15 tours and charters right here.
This post was updated in May 2023, but things are always changing! Make sure to double-check schedule changes and closures before your trip.
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Our Top Pick:
Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave Cruises
This 70-foot yacht comfortably seats 30 passengers inside and outdoors on year-round narrated daytime and sunset cruises to Emerald Bay!
Map of Lake Tahoe Boat Tours
This map shows the marinas where the following 15 Lake Tahoe boat tours meet unless otherwise specified by the company. Some of the boat tours depart from crowded marinas with limited parking. You may want to choose a tour or charter that leaves from a marina that is easy to get to by Taxi, Uber, or Lyft.
Emerald Bay Cruises
Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay is one of the most picturesque places in all of California, and there is no better way to experience its majestic beauty than from the water. It’s no surprise that almost all of the Lake Tahoe boat tours offer a stop here.
The following popular tours feature Emerald Bay as a destination.
Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave
4.7 out of 5 (255 reviews)
Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave’s two-hour cruise is your ticket to enjoying Lake Tahoe’s beauty from a vantage point like no other. Your captain will share the history and culture of Lake Tahoe year-round as you take in views of the lake’s impossibly-clear waters from the outdoor decks or the comfort of its climate-controlled indoor facilities.
On our tour, we were greeted with friendly staff, good music, and a glass of wine. Though it was cold outside and there was plenty of indoor seating with wide windows, I couldn’t resist the urge to snap photos from the bow for the first half of the tour. On the way back, John and I relaxed at the bar where we were warmed up by the electric fireplace and some delicious Irish coffees.
Though we weren’t traveling with the kiddos on this trip, we did notice that two of our fellow passengers were about their age. They seemed to be having the time of their lives exploring the boat and even had a turn at the wheel.
Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave’s 70-foot yacht was built in 1966. It has a capacity for up to 47 passengers, but seats are limited to 30 on cruises for guests’ comfort. Enjoy the included glass of beer, wine, or champagne, and sit back and relax as you take in the views during a wonderful sunset or daytime cruise.
Review Quote: “From beginning to end, the cruise was a pleasure. The boat accommodates about 30 passengers and had different levels, as well as indoor/outdoor, for comfortable seating. The captain and his mate made everyone feel welcome and at ease and the captain offered great insights along the way. I would highly recommend the cruise.” (Read More Reviews)
Anonymous, September 2022
Important Information:
- 2-hour daytime and sunset cruises from South Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay
- Year-Round Tours
- Includes non-alcoholic drinks, light snacks, and one glass of beer, wine, or champagne
- Small capacity for a public tour
Book Your Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave Cruise Today!
Tahoe Cruises: Spirit of Tahoe and Safari Rose
4.5 out of 5 (523 reviews)
Tahoe Cruises offers year-round narrated cruises to Emerald Bay on the Spirit of Tahoe and Safari Rose. This two-hour tour will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes that Lake Tahoe has to offer as well as provide insight into the history and culture of this beautiful area.
Cruises are offered during the day and at sunset. On sunset tours, sparkling wine is included making it even more special! Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard too.
There are plenty of indoor and outdoor seating options on this boat designed for 133 passengers. Reviewers mention that it can be difficult to find seating outdoors in the warmer months and indoors in the colder months as people angle for the best seats for the weather. Arrive early to get your first choice!
Though the captain ultimately chooses which boat to use, The Spirit of Tahoe now runs most public cruises with Safari Rose mostly used for private charters.
Review Quote: “Fantastic tour aboard the Spirit of Tahoe. Our Captain and crew provided an exciting experience as we travelled across the lake and into Emerald Bay. Since it was the off season in October we were able to cruise right up to the Viking Castle and next to the only island on Lake Tahoe. We would definitely recommend this cruise if you want to enjoy the beauty of Emerald Bay up close.” (Read More Reviews)
Don, October 2022
Important Information:
- 2-hour morning and sunset cruises from South Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay
- Year-Round Tours
- The sunset tour includes sparkling wine. Otherwise, food and beverages are available for purchase.
- If you have a strong preference for indoor or outdoor seating, arrive early to choose your seats.
Book Your Tahoe Cruises Tickets Now!
Camp Richardson’s Vikingsholm Castle Tour & Cruise
If you’re looking for a Lake Tahoe boat tour experience that covers the history and culture of the area in depth, look no further than Camp Richardson’s Vikingsholm Castle Tour & Cruise. This 3-hour summer boat tour takes passengers on a stunning journey to Emerald Bay and also includes tickets for a guided walking tour of one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic landmarks – Vikingsholm Castle!
With a 30-minute boat tour each way, guests have plenty of time to take in Lake Tahoe’s gorgeous waters as they sail toward Emerald Bay. Once there, you have two hours to enjoy a guided walking tour of Vikingsholm Castle and explore the neighboring trails. You can also simply relax by the lake while soaking in its beauty.
Getting to Vikingsholm Castle by land requires walking down (and back up) a steep one-mile trail. This boat tour is a great option for those who want to take the tour while avoiding the hike.
Important Information:
- The 3-hour tour includes 2 hours to spend at Vikingsholm Castle. Tickets to tour Vikingsholm Castle are included.
- Great option for visitors who cannot walk the steep trail to Vikingsholm.
- Two tours per day during the summer months: 11 am and 1 pm
Book Your Vikingsholm Castle Tour & Cruise Today!
Lake Tahoe Sailing
Nothing compares to the joy of sailing on Lake Tahoe. From the peacefulness of gliding across its tranquil waters to the breathtaking sights and sounds of nature that surround you, Lake Tahoe sailing is an experience like no other. This is a great way to explore this amazing region and create some lasting memories!
Sail Tahoe Blue
5 out of 5 (364 reviews)
Sail Tahoe Blue is Lake Tahoe’s premier sailing boat tour and an unforgettable experience for all ages! From May to October, their 40-foot vessel offers morning cruises, mid-day sails, afternoon cruises, and sunset sails that are perfect for families looking for a Lake Tahoe adventure.
Ages 5 and up are welcome on the public tours, so everyone can join in the fun of sailing Lake Tahoe’s gorgeous waters. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views at every turn and have plenty of time for sightseeing along the way. Given sailing’s dependence on the wind, each journey is unique. There are no pre-determined destinations.
Sail Tahoe Blue tours have a capacity of 18 guests which allows passengers more personalized attention than larger boats can offer. This also helps create an intimate atmosphere so you can get to know your fellow travelers.
With its small capacity and opportunity for adventure, you will be able to unwind and truly immerse yourselves in nature while also enjoying complimentary local beer and wine on board.
Review Quote: “We enjoyed being out on beautiful Lake Tahoe with our close friends. The crew was amazing with stories about the area and the lake. They were very friendly and fun to have around for the day. Watching the sails go up into the wind and the weather was the best. Checked off the bucket list. Thank you so much!!! We will go again for sure. We’ve been visiting Lake Tahoe yearly for 25+ years.” (Read More Reviews)
Christina, October 2022
Important Information:
- May – October 15
- Sailing cruise experiences and destinations vary based on the wind and the weather.
- Tour Capacity is 18 guests.
- Ages 5 and up are welcome.
- Your ticket includes complimentary beer and wine on every sail.
Book Sail Tahoe Blue Tickets Today!
Dinner Cruise Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe dinner cruises offer a memorable experience for those looking to enjoy the best Lake Tahoe scenery while sharing a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a fun experience for the whole family, Lake Tahoe’s dinner cruises are a popular choice. From sunset cruises that feature spectacular views and live music to relaxing brunches, there are plenty of options for dining on the lake.
M.S. Dixie II
4 out of 5 (623 reviews)
As South Lake Tahoe’s largest cruising vessel, M.S. Dixie II offers 500 passengers an opportunity to cruise to Emerald Bay with its 2-hour narrated tour. The huge paddle-wheeler is climate-controlled so you can relax in comfort year-round while sampling the delicious cocktails and wines available for purchase on board.
The daytime cruise is the most popular, providing gorgeous views throughout your cruise, food for purchase, and an onboard photographer to capture your memories. The Sunset Dinner Cruise features two dinner seatings and live music. With community seating of 6 per table, you’ll make some new friends as you dine.
Though the MS Dixie II’s reviews are generally positive, some reviewers have been disappointed to be seated far from the windows in the large dining room space. It’s best to book the second dinner seating and enjoy the beautiful Lake Tahoe views from the decks on your way to Emerald Bay and then dine after sunset when it’s dark outside.
Note that on occasion the company has canceled tickets when oversold. Book early to be certain of your spot.
MS Dixie II offers a complimentary shuttle service from select Lake Tahoe areas to ease parking pressures. Take the shuttle to save on parking fees and enjoy a stress-free journey to and from the boat tour!
Review Quote: “Did the lunch tour on our honeymoon and loved it. The lake is gorgeous, food was alright but drinks were great! The bartender was hilarous, we really enjoyed the fun we had and the interactions with the staff and others on the boat.” (Read More Reviews)
Emily, September 2022
Important Information:
- Year-Round Tours
- Daytime and Dinner Cruises from South Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay
- Sunset Dinner Cruise Ticket includes dinner. Daytime Cruise offers food and beverages for purchase on board.
- The largest cruising vessel on Lake Tahoe serving up to 500 passengers per cruise.
Book Your M.S. Dixie Tickets Today!
Tahoe Gal
4 out of 5 (295 reviews)
The Tahoe Gal is another of Tahoe’s popular paddle wheelers. This one is a bit smaller, allowing up to 120 passengers onboard. Unlike most of the Lake Tahoe Boat Tours featured in this post, the Tahoe Gal departs from Tahoe City on the north side of the lake, making it a great option for visitors lodging near Kings Beach or Incline Village.
Tahoe Gal cruises are available May through October and vary in length depending on the type of tour you book. The 3.5-hour lunch cruise goes all the way to Emerald Bay, while the shorter Brunch, Happy Hour and Dinner cruises take guests along the West Shore. Godfather fans will be happy to note that these West Shore cruises pass Fleur Du Lac, where Godfather II was filmed.
One thing important to note about the Tahoe Gal is that its cruises are marketed by meal, but once you’re onboard the food is available for purchase separately.
Review Quote: “What a nice day on the water. The Tahoe Gal and it’s crew were the perfect way to spend a few hours on the water yesterday. We did the 3.5 hour lunch cruise to Emerald Bay and it was perfect. Just sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Lake Tahoe as you cruise from Tahoe City to Emerald Bat and back…” (Read More Reviews)
Kevin, August 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- One of few public boat tour options in North Lake Tahoe.
- The lunch cruise goes to Emerald Bay, others cruise along the West Shore.
- Even though cruises are marketed by lunch, brunch, and dinner, your ticket price does not include your meal.
Book Your Tahoe Gal Cruise Now!
Party Boat Lake Tahoe
What better way to make your Lake Tahoe adventure even more memorable than with some drinks? The Lake Tahoe boat tours that follow feature adult beverages for an extra element of fun! Enjoy those breathtaking views while you get to know your fellow passengers and cheers a drink in celebration of a memorable day on the Lake.
Tahoe Tastings
5 out of 5 (44 reviews)
Hop aboard a 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi for Tahoe Tastings‘ unique two-hour wine-tasting cruise to Emerald Bay.
While on board, sample 8 wines from various regions with a focus on Northern California while taking in Lake Tahoe’s majestic scenery. Bottles and glasses of your favorites are available for purchase after the tasting so that you can take some of California’s fine wines home with you. Charcuterie platters can be ordered in advance for those wanting some cheese with their wine.
Put away your phones and enjoy an afternoon of sipping great wine while soaking in the Lake’s famed beauty. As a bonus, designated drivers enjoy a slightly discounted rate.
Review Quote: “We had a sunset tour on the Golden Rose in late August and had a wonderful experience on the tour with some great wines and absolutely stunning scenery. Highly recommend this tour if you are visiting Lake Tahoe.” (Read More Reviews)
Anonymous, August 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- 2-hour tour to Emerald Bay
- The tour begins with a wine-tasting experience. Bottles and glasses of wine are available for purchase after the tasting.
- Not a good tour option with kids.
Book Your Tahoe Tastings Cruise Today!
Camp Richardson’s Rum Runner Boat Tour
For those who enjoy one of Lake Tahoe’s most famous drinks, there may be no better way to cruise through Tahoe’s beautiful scenery than from Camp Richardson’s Rum Runner Boat Tour.
This 1.5-hour cruise takes passengers on a journey from Camp Richardson to Emerald Bay and back, providing those celebrated majestic views along the way. All ages are welcome. This is known to be an ideal outing for those looking for a laid-back getaway with friends and family.
On board, you’ll be able to purchase Rum Runners, beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and light snacks. Though the Captain and crew are happy to answer questions, this boat tour is for relaxing on the water. It isn’t the tour for you if you are looking for a narrated history of the area.
If a casual cruise to Emerald Bay with a side of rum sounds good to you, book your ticket today.
Important Information:
- 1.5-hour cruise to Emerald Bay
- Rum Runners are available for purchase, as are beer, wine, sodas, and light snacks
- Casual, laid-back, family-friendly tour.
Book Your Rum Runner Cruise Now!
Lake Tahoe Boat Charters
Chartering a boat for a private tour offers many benefits. With Lake Tahoe’s spectacular scenery as a backdrop, you can spend a couple of hours or the whole day with friends and family, enjoying the Lake on your own terms.
For those looking to book a private Lake Tahoe boat tour, many experienced companies offer charters in the area. The favorites shared below specialize in everything from custom sunset tours to family-friendly tubing excursions.
Alpenglow Boat Company
5 out of 5 (22 reviews)
If you are looking for a Lake Tahoe boat tour that’s as unique and beautiful as the Lake itself, look no further than the Alpenglow Boat Company.
Offering private charters for up to 6 guests in their beautifully restored 1958 Century Coronado, passengers can rely on Alpenglow for an unforgettable experience. From two-hour tours of Emerald Bay or the East Shore to a fully custom 3-hour itinerary, Alpenglow offers something for everyone who wants to explore Lake Tahoe in style.
The tour price includes your driver, gas, and safety gear. Bottled water and light snacks are provided as well. Guests are welcome to bring their food and drinks to enjoy on board.
Review Quote: “Awesome experience! We had Ed as our captain, he reached out via text right away to introduce himself and made it very easy to find him and the boat. The boat itself is absolutely beautiful, they keep it in pristine shape. And the lake… it’s like a postcard come to life. Would give it 6 out of 5 stars if I could.” (Read More Reviews)
Dan, August 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- Private charter for up to 6 guests.
- Price includes driver, gas, and safety gear. Bring your own food and snacks.
Book Your Alpenglow Boat Company Charter Today!
White Lightning, Tahoe by Design
5 out of 5 (8 reviews)
Are you looking for an exciting Lake Tahoe boating experience with your nearest and dearest? Look no further than Tahoe By Design’s White Lightning!
With a private charter for up to 8 guests, this 25-foot powerboat offers 2-hour and 4-hour cruises to Emerald Bay with stops for photo ops and swimming spots along the way. Whether you’re looking for a sunset tour or just some time to play on Lake Tahoe’s beautiful waters, White Lightning is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
The price of the Lake Tahoe boat tour includes your driver, gas, safety gear, and beach toys. Guests are welcome to bring their food and drinks to enjoy on the boat.
Book a day on White Lightning for a Lake Tahoe boat tour that you won’t soon forget!
Review Quote: “I highly recommend this beautiful tour! Matt was really knowledgeable about the history of the lake and took us to all the great spots. We had such a great time!” (Read More Reviews)
Jenny, May 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- 2-hour private charter offered morning, afternoon, and sunset
- Up to 8 guests
- Price includes driver, gas, and safety gear. Bring your own food and snacks.
Book Your White Lightning Charter Today!
Grateful Red, Tahoe by design
5 out of 5 (35 reviews)
Explore Lake Tahoe in style and luxury on a Grateful Red private charter. Grateful Red is a 27-foot Mariah Z250 Limited Shabah known as the “Ferrari of Lake Tahoe” for its sleek design and powerful engine. This boat is perfect for cruising around Emerald Bay and other Lake Tahoe destinations like Secret Harbor and Sand Harbor. With an experienced captain at the helm, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!
From May – October, guests can enjoy the Lake their way, with a custom itinerary tailored to their preferences. Choose between 2-hour daytime cruises, a sunset cruise, or a longer 4-hour booking.
The price of your charter includes a captain, gas, safety gear, water, and light snacks. Tahoe by Design can also bring along pool rafts and swim toys for those who plan to hop in the lake.
Arrive for your tour early to avoid the Marina crowds, and be sure to bring your camera to capture all the memories made with Grateful Red.
Review Quote: “Our captain Brian was absolutely amazing. He gave us a lot of wonderful information and suggestions of things to do in the area. Breathtaking scenery and the boat was beautiful also. Would absolutely recommend!” (Read More Reviews)
Melinda, June 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- 2-4 hour private charter on the “Ferrari of Lake Tahoe.”
- Up to 6 guests
- Price includes driver, gas, and safety gear. Bring your own food and snacks.
Book Your Grateful Red Charter Now!
Tahoe Emerald Bliss Boat Tours
5 out of 5 (28 reviews)
Offering private charters in a luxurious Sea Ray yacht class vessel, passengers who book with Tahoe Emerald Bliss Boat Tours can hop aboard to experience Lake Tahoe’s stunning beauty and sights from May – October. Allowing up to 6 passengers onboard, guests have plenty of room to explore the Lake and make memories that last a lifetime.
Choose among several two-hour tours offered throughout the day, perfect for those looking to sample the best of the Lake without spending their whole day on the water. Unlike other boat tours, Tahoe Emerald Bliss Boat Tours offers an early morning departure for those looking to experience the magic of Lake Tahoe without the crowds. If you want to play on the lake for longer, book a 4-5 hour half-day tour that allows you to try water sports like tubing.
A cooler with ice and water is provided on board. You are welcome to bring your food and drinks.
Come aboard the Sea Ray and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Review Quote: “This boat tour was definitely the highlight of our trip to Lake Tahoe. Captain Ron is so knowledgeable of the history of the lake and area. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our time spent out on the lake in his beautiful new Sea Ray boat. He was so accommodating in helping my elderly dad on and off the boat. We highly recommend this tour if you want to see the beauty of the lake closeup and hear the history. Can’t wait to go back to Tahoe and book another tour with Captain Ron.” (Read More Reviews)
Anonymous, August 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- 2-hour charters offered throughout the day for up to 6 passengers
- Half-Day option available
- Price includes driver, gas, safety gear, and a cooler with ice and bottled water. Bring your own food and snacks.
Book Your Tahoe Emerald Bliss Boat Tour Today!
Lake Tahoe Boat Rides
5 out of 5 (681 reviews)
If you’re a fan of sightseeing, watersports or anything in between, Lake Tahoe Boat Rides offers experiences for everyone. Enjoy popular tours to Emerald Bay and Cave Rock or venture further afield to check out Fleur du Lac, where the Godfather II was filmed.
For larger groups, Lake Tahoe Boat Rides has a party boat option that can accommodate up to 35 guests – perfect for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. Bring your food and beverages onboard to customize an unforgettable day on the lake with friends and family.
And for those looking for a Lake Tahoe boat tour that will allow your furry friend onboard, Lake Tahoe Boat Rides welcomes them too (with prior approval). Just bring along a blanket for your pup to lounge on and respect additional cleaning fees that may be applied.
Review Quote: “Our captain Tommy was incredible! Great mix of informative tour and fun activities. We loved anchoring and swimming at DL Bliss state park and had so much fun tubing! Hands down the part of our trip to Tahoe.” (Read More Reviews)
Taylor, September 2022
Important Information:
- May – September
- 2 -6 hour charters offered throughout the day
- Most boats are for up to 6 passengers. There is a party boat option for up to 35 passengers.
- Price includes driver, gas, safety gear, and water toys. Bring your own food and snacks.
- Well-behaved dogs allowed with prior approval
Book Your Lake Tahoe Boat Rides Charter Now!
Boat Tahoe
5 out of 5 (11 reviews)
Whether you’re looking to see the sights on an Emerald Bay Cruise or prefer to take a dip in gorgeous and remote Rubicon Bay, Boat Tahoe has you covered with a range of private tour options. With up to 6 passengers onboard, this company specializes in cruising around Lake Tahoe while listening to passengers’ favorite tunes.
Boat Tahoe offers two-hour tours during the daytime and at sunset. Longer charters are also available, allowing you to plan a unique Lake Tahoe adventure. Boat Tahoe will customize your tour with watersports, swimming, and more activities to keep you entertained for hours!
Non-alcoholic drinks are provided, but guests are welcome to bring food and beverages if desired. Don’t forget your camera; there will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way!
Review Quote: “We loved seeing Emerald Bay and cruising around the lake. The sunset and the music playing on the boat was awesome!” (Read More Reviews)
Payal, October 2022
Important Information:
- May – October
- 2-4 hour private boat charter options
- Up to 6 passengers
- Price includes driver, gas, safety gear, and water toys. Bring your own food and snacks
- Meet at the boat itself.
Book Your Boat Tahoe Charter Today!
Tahoe Luxury Charters
This company offers groups of up to 13 the chance to experience the fun and otherworldly beauty of Lake Tahoe from a luxurious 42-foot yacht!
With amenities like a full kitchen, multiple restrooms, a swim deck with a hydraulic lift for easy water access, and even a zodiac boat for closer shoreline exploration, you’ll have everything you need and more for an unforgettable Lake Tahoe excursion. A removable full Eisen glass enclosure allows for an extended March – October season!
Smaller groups of up to 10 can opt for Tahoe Luxury Charter’s 33-foot Formula Sun Sport. It also features a removable glass enclosure and an extra large Bimini to keep you comfortable under the summer sun.
So if you want an unforgettable and luxurious day on Lake Tahoe, book an experience with Tahoe Luxury Charters today.
Important Information:
- March – October
- Luxury Charters perfect for larger groups of 10-13
- Price includes driver, gas, and safety gear. Bring your own food and snacks.
- The removable full Eisen glass enclosure allows for an extended season.
- The swim deck hydraulic lift can be lowered into the water for ease and comfort.
- Explore the shore with the use of a zodiac boat.
Book Your Tahoe Luxury Charter Now!
Sunset Cruise Lake Tahoe
Sunset on Lake Tahoe is an experience like no other. As the sun dips below the horizon, Lake Tahoe’s stunning colors come alive – it’s no wonder that so many of the Lake Tahoe Boat Tours featured here offer a sunset cruise option!
Though it’s hard to go wrong with any of these tours, the following three are my top picks for Lake Tahoe Sunset Cruises.
Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave
As an overall pick, Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave is my favorite. The 70-foot yacht operates year-round with a more intimate size than the larger tours. Unwind by the fireplace or on the outdoor decks with a complimentary glass of wine or beer while the sun sets behind the Sierras.
Alpenglow Boat Company
Maybe it’s in the name, but for a private charter sunset cruise, I’m partial to Alpenglow Boat Company’s beautifully restored 1958 Century Coronado. Enjoy the Lake Tahoe sunset in style with this classic boat, designed to comfortably seat up to 6 guests.
Sail Tahoe Blue
And for a unique adventure, I wouldn’t hesitate to book a sunset tour with Sail Tahoe Blue. Depending on the winds, you may not make it to Emerald Bay, but you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Watching the sun sink behind the Sierras from this 40-foot sailboat is truly special.
Lake Tahoe Boat Tours
Boat tours are a perfect way to experience Lake Tahoe’s stunning beauty. Whether you’re looking for a small private cruise around Emerald Bay, a luxurious charter with all the extras, or just want to take in the sunset from Lake Tahoe’s clear blue waters – there is a boating experience to suit every style.
Book your Lake Tahoe boat tour today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.
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Lake Tahoe Boat Tours FAQ
What should I bring on a Lake Tahoe Boat Tour?
As with most outdoor activities in Lake Tahoe, wear layers and plan for any kind of weather. You may get hot under the overhead sun and then chilly after the sun sets. At a minimum, make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a jacket or sweatshirt, and a towel and swimsuit if you plan to jump in the lake!
Also, don’t forget a camera. Emerald Bay is a top stop on many boat tours and it's one of the most photographed areas in the country!
What is a bareboat charter?
You may notice that some of the boat charter options offer a “bareboat charter” which allows for greater capacity than the full-service charter option.
A Bareboat Charter is required by the Coast Guard when there are more than 6 passengers on an uninspected passenger vessel for hire. If you hire a Bareboat Charter, you are required to rent the boat yourself and pay for a Captain separately. Many boat charter companies will provide you with an in-house Captain for an additional fee.
It’s best to talk with each company about their requirements for Bareboat Charters directly.
What is the famous boat on Lake Tahoe?
Many Lake Tahoe visitors are familiar with the large paddle-wheeler MS Dixie II, which docks at Zephyr Cove. But Lake Tahoe history buffs might have a different answer.
The Thunderbird Lodge National Historic Site is home to one of the country’s most recognizable wooden speedboats, the Thunderbird yacht. The Thunderbird once transported guests between Lake Tahoe’s high-mountain estates and luxury resorts.
Cruises on the Thunderbird Yacht are available for sponsors of the Lodge during a few private excursions each year.
How much does it cost to go boating in Lake Tahoe?
The cost of boating on Lake Tahoe depends on the type of experience you book. If you book a ticket on a public boat cruise, expect to pay anywhere from $70 - $150 per person (sometimes kids get a discounted ticket). If you book a private charter, expect to pay around $700 for a two-hour experience and then more depending on the length of your booking.
Editor’s Pick: Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave
This 70-foot yacht comfortably seats 30 passengers inside and outdoors on daily narrated daytime and sunset cruises to Emerald Bay!
Enjoy your amazing Lake Tahoe Boat Tour and check out more of our California road trip favorites!
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