tahoe cruises tours

Book Aug 18th Sunday Night Dinner Cruise - Almost Full Moon and Live Music. 2 for 1 dinner entrees

The Tahoe Gal

Daily sightseeing and event cruises on lake tahoe.

• Most popular!

Lunch Cruise to Emerald Bay

See sites like the Ehrman Mansion at Sugar Pine Point and Vikingsholm Castle as you cruise over the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay.

• Tags 3.5 Hours , Daily Cruises
• Tags 1.5 Hours , Daily Cruises

Happy Hour Cruise

Enjoy a fun-packed boat cruise along the breathtaking north shore of Lake Tahoe.

Shoreline Brunch Cruise

Learn about Tahoe’s early tourism on this narrated cruise. See some of California’s most lavish properties, including the famous Kaiser Estate, home of the Godfather II.

• Tags 2.5 Hours , Daily Cruises

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Travel along the West Shore of Lake Tahoe cruising by the site of The Godfather II, as you enjoy California cuisine and a wine list of more than 30 wines!

An iconic 120 passenger paddle wheeler located in Lake Tahoe, California, The Tahoe Gal cruises daily to Emerald Bay and along the North and West Shores of Lake Tahoe.

We had the best time on the Happy Hour Cruise! The boat is charming and the views of the lake are stunning and beautiful! The staff were all incredibly friendly and accommodating from check in to the photo guy to the captain! We brought our own captain's hats to be goofy and the captain and staff got such a kick out of it that they let us get a look at the cockpit (is it a cockpit on a boat??) and pretend to drive! It was a fun, relaxing activity before going to dinner.

A group of 14 of us threw a surprise party for my wife, to celebrate an upcoming milestone birthday. The folks at the Tahoe Gal could not have been nicer! From the initial booking, they did everything with excellence. The music dinner cruise was extraordinary! The lake was calm. The views were stunning. The table for our group was perfect. The musicians were talented and even played Happy Birthday for my wife. The food was better than any restaurant (I had the prime rib ... not to be missed!). And I cannot say enough about our server, Christian. He was terrific and handled our large group with ease. Kudos, Tahoe Gal! Well done!!!

This was a perfect way to enjoy the lake. Took the Tahoe Gal over to Emerald Bay for a Sunday lunch cruise. The day was beautiful and the bay, beyond words. Enjoyed learning about the lake and the history of the area. The captain did a great job with all the information, however, the sound system could be improved. The food, albeit a bit pricey was good and the mixed drinks yum! The crew did a great job and were always smiling even though they were kept busy... Overall we loved it and would definitely do it again!!!

Daily Cruises

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Specialty Cruises

• Zephyr Cove Resort
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Come Cruise Lake Tahoe

From daytime to sunset, Lake Tahoe Cruises offer spectacular views, fresh air and an unforgettable journey. 

Daytime Scenic Cruise

Voted the "Best Cruise in Nevada" by Nevada Magazine. Enjoy the sunshine and fresh Lake Tahoe air to Emerald Bay on our Daytime Scenic Cruise. 

Sunset Cruises

Have an unforgettable evening completed with sunsets, breathtaking views, local cuisine, cocktails and more! 

Sipping at Sundown Cruise (not operating for 2024)

Luxurious private charters available for your group and reason for gathering together. Full-service event planning with your creativity sets the perfect event.

Looking for a great deal on lodging?

Check out our lodging specials >.

Check out our paddle wheeler and lake yacht before planning your next cruise experience.

We make it easy. Pick the perfect day, select your cruise, book and enjoy.

Deals and more! See what's happening on the water. 

Sail Tahoe Blue

Sail Tahoe Blue offers a sailing experience unlike any other on Lake Tahoe. Hop on one of our daily public cruises for a scenic shoreline sail, or book a private charter for a more custom, intimate experience with the option to sail to Emerald Bay . Operating out of Ski Run Marina in South Lake Tahoe, Sail Tahoe Blue sits in one of the most happening locales on the lake. After a couple of hours on the water, you can explore the town or enjoy a meal at Riva Grill .

Daily Cruises

We set sail every day from Ski Run Marina. Come join us! Cruises include drinks and the best view on the lake.

Private Charters

We do private cruises as well. Perfect for parties, or if you just want the moment all to yourself. 

Special Events

Wedding parties, birthdays, reunions... We are here to help you celebrate your big day, the best way.

Classic Tahoe Cruises Since 1950

Elegance on the water: where history meets luxury., capture the moment : where every snapshot tells a story., looking for a smaller craft or a more intimate experience, join us on our sister boat, the radiance.

Experience Lake Tahoe in Classic Style on the Tahoe!

The tahoe has been cruising lake tahoe since 1950. she is a custom built high speed cruiser built entirely of wood. glide with us across beautiful lake tahoe with up to 21 passengers., emerald bay & vikingsholm.

In partnership with the Sierra State Parks Foundation, Cruise Tahoe is offering the Emerald Bay Cruise and Vikingsholm Castle Walking Tour. The cruise includes light appetizers and lots of Tahoe History. Available Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

"> "> THUNDERBIRD LODGE

Step back in time as you board our 1950 woody to the historic Thunderbird Lodge. Cruise includes light snacks, walking tour of the Thunderbird Lodge and boxed lunch. Available Tuesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer. Some additional days may be available.

WEDDINGS & PRIVATE CHARTERS

We specialize in intimate events and can host up to 21 passengers. Let us help you plan your wedding, engagement, family gathering or corporate function. The Tahoe can pick up and drop off at many locations around Lake Tahoe. We will work with you to create a memorable cruise on Lake Tahoe, and we can recommend top-notch vendors for catering and photography.

Book your journey now!

A portion of every public cruise ticket sale supports lake tahoe.

The Emerald Bay Cruise & Vikingsholm Castle Walking Tour supports the Sierra State Parks Foundation which operates Vikingsholm Castle and other sites around Lake Tahoe. The Thunderbird Lodge Cruise & Tour supports the Thunderbird Lodge Preservation Society.

Emerald Bay Cruise & Vikingsholm Castle Walking Tour

Ages 6 and Up • 3 Hours Up to 16 People!

Thunderbird Lodge Cruise and Tour

Ages 6 and Up • 6 hours Lunch Included • History of Lake Tahoe

Private Lake Tahoe Cruise

Ages 6 and Up • 2 Hours Up to 18 People!

Book us for your special events next year!

Visiting Lake Tahoe for the first time or looking for some other things to do?

I look forward to meeting you, - ed broadbelt (captain/owner), real reviews from real cruise tahoe customers., august 2018.

I took both of their cruises. The boat is lovely. The crew, Stacey and Chris were fabulous. Both of their tours were very informative and fun. I highly recommend.

We took the 5 hour tour to Thunderbird and it was awesome. Our Captain was so good with my kids and gave an interesting tour. Lunch was great in an idyllic setting. It was expensive but considering the length of the stay and the tour, we felt it was well worth it.

My husband and I have been boating and snow skiing at Lake Tahoe since we were both children. Over the years we’ve visited the many beautiful and informative sites around the lake (e.g., Vikingsholm, Tallac cottages, Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, Emigrant Trail Museum in Donner, Pope Estate, Taylor Creek Stream Profile) and recommend all of them. However, our visit to the fabulous Thunderbird Lodge this past July was a true highlight. Captain Stacey and first mate Chris took the time and care to make the couple hour ride to the mansion from Zephyr Cove a delight. The boat arrival was well-worth the extra time and money compared to arriving to the mansion by bus. The Tahoe cruised us past many beautiful properties and we learned much about the history of the east shore. I recommend bringing a jacket (even if the forecast calls for sun) and a good camera and wearing comfortable walking shoes. If you have time, read The Saga of Lake Tahoe by E.B. Scott to give you a greater appreciation for what you will see and a strong context of what you will learn while you’re on the boat ride and taking the Thunderbird tour.

October 2022

We did the east shore tour with Thunderbird Lodge. Amazing tour. The 2 man crew was great. Very knowledgeable about the area and the Lodge. Told us about many former residents of the houses along the shore. The tour at the lodge was wonderful and very informative. I learned a lot. We ate lunch on the grounds with amazing views all around. The sites from the boat were amazing.

All I can say is “WOW!”– we booked Cruise Tahoe on a whim for our wedding and it ended up being the highlight of the entire day. They picked us up at Ski Run Marina after our church ceremony and took us to our reception area at Valhalla across the lake. We were graced with Captain Stacie and a helper (can’t remember his name!) and they were just incredible. The boat was clean, the ride was smooth, and the customer service was perfect. They understood our needs, allowed for tons of great photos and overall made it a fun and memorable experience. Chris was a pleasure to work with as well during the research and booking process. I would highly recommend this company–pictures coming soon!

Itsallgood4me

Several of my friends raved about this tour that my friends and I wanted to take it. We were staying in South Lake Tahoe and opted for the boat ride to the Lodge rather than driving up to Incline Village and taking a bus to the Lodge (there is no public parking at the Lodge so these are your only options). So glad that we spent the extra $$ for the boat ride. Stacy, our captain, gave us an informative talk about the sites we saw on the way and her crew, Chris, kept the guests happy with drinks and danish on the way to the Lodge. Stacy took us on a tour of the lodge explaining the history in detail. The Thunderbird boat was quite a site. We enjoyed a nice lunch outside on the grounds. I had requested a gluten free meal and they served me a very nice lunch. The ride back was equally as nice and I got to sit up front and talk with Stacy some more. She was very sweet and gave me ideas on places to dine at and other sites to see. This is a tour not to be missed if you are in South Lake Tahoe!

September 2022

A beautiful boat and a fun crew to take you to a very historic location full of cool history all the way back to the early settlers of the west and gold rush. Drinks on board and a great way to see the lake.

Tahoe is a beautiful boat and the 2 member crew were amazing. There were just 8 passengers on our cruise.

August 2019

This is an excellent way to spend a portion of the day. A beautiful boat trip from Zephyr Cove to the incredible Thunderbird Lodge. Along the way you will get a narrated tour of the Lake Tahoe coastline. The Lodge is beautiful and extremely interesting. The walking tour will take you through the property and give you the history of George Whittell. We were offered a continental breakfast on the boat and a nice lunch at the lodge. Your guides are fun, interesting and informative. This is a really good tour. Highly recommended.

Best tour ever! The cruise to Vikingsholm castle was amazing! They made us feel like a million dollars! Kept offering us drinks and then snacks after the tour of the castle. It was absolutely the best! We only wish we had more cash on us to leave a tip. Thank you Cruise Tahoe! You made our week!!

Classic Tahoe Cruises Since 1950.

© 2024 Cruise Tahoe

Daily Adventures

Scenic cruises, summer 2023.

Day Cruise:  11:00 am – 1:000 pm & 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Sunset Cruise: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm *

*sunset cruises change with the seasons. Please refer to the booking page for current schedule.

Emerald Bay Sunset Cruise

Emerald Bay Day Cruise

Be our guest for this unforgettable sightseeing cruise aboard one of our classic yachts.  Our day cruises are family-friendly and are the best way to see the many colors of Lake Tahoe. Day cruises offer narration and history of the lake by the knowledgeable captain and crew as we head to Emerald Bay where you will experience the favorite landmarks such as Eagle Falls, Vikingsholm Castle, Fannett Island (the only island in Lake Tahoe), the granite tea house that sits on the top of the island as well as the striking scenery of the Sierra mountains. Make this memorable sightseeing cruise a must-do on your list, especially if it is your first time visiting Lake Tahoe!

Our day cruises include:

• 2-hr cruise
• USCG licensed captains
• Historic narration
• A ticket for one free domestic beer, house wine/sparkeling wine
• A full bar and food are available for purchase

Sunset Champagne Cruise to Emerald Bay

Cruise times vary seasonally with sunset times

Sunset Champagne Cruise to Emerald Bay The sunset cruise has long been a favorite for our guests due to its casual and relaxing vibe that seems to illuminate Tahoe at that time of day. We follow the sun year-round so that you can enjoy the sights of Emerald Bay while it is still light, then we cruise back to open water for one of Tahoe’s famous sunsets. This romantic cruise is designed to create a serene and blissful end of the day.

Sunset Cruises include:

• Limited narration
• Free-flowing sparkling wine or one free non-alcohoic beverage
• A full bar where other drinks and food can be purchased

We can accommodate private parties, weddings, or corporate outings or you can just get away with friends for a tranquil afternoon!

• US Coast Guard Certified Captains & Friendly Crew
• Indoor & Outdoor Seating

All Cruises Leave from the SKI RUN MARINA – Rain or Shine!

900 Ski Run Blvd. South Lake Tahoe CA 96150

Learn More About Emerald Bay

Vikingsholm

Fannette Island

• Private Boat Tours & Charters
• Public Boat Tours
• Jet Ski Rentals
• Kayak & SUP Rentals

Parasailing

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• South Lake Tahoe CA
• Stateline NV
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• Best Of Lake Tahoe

Tahoe Boating Tours

Charter boat rentals in lake tahoe, boat tahoe is the #1 boat rental company for captain-included boat tours of lake tahoe.

Located on the beautiful shores of South Lake Tahoe, Boat Tahoe provides the ultimate boating experience on Lake Tahoe!  With our private captained boat tours for up to 10 people, choose from a day of cruising the lake while visiting Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm, Fannette Island, D.L. Bliss State Park, Rubicon Bay, Meeks Bay, Sugar Pine Point State Park and more or enjoying a more action packed day of tubing, wakeboarding or water skiing .  Our US Coast Guard licensed captains can cater your tour to your exact needs!  Book your adventure today and enjoy an amazing day on Lake Tahoe!

Have additional questions?  Check out our FAQ for even more info.

Lake Tahoe’s Favorite Boating Destination For

Boat Tahoe offers private boat charters & tours of Lake Tahoe with your very own captain!  See the sights of Lake Tahoe or enjoy tubing, wakeboarding or waterskiing!

Charter Boats

With a Lake Tahoe charter boat our captains will show you the best of Lake Tahoe!  They know all the amazing spots so you can kick back and take it all in with your friends & family!

Boat Rentals

Our boat rentals truly are the best way to explore Lake Tahoe!  Rentals have a max capacity of 6-10 people depending on the boat and comes with your very own United States Coast Guard certified captain!

Power Boats

Each of our power boats are meticulously maintained and cleaned and offer plenty of room to spread out and have a relaxing day on Lake Tahoe.

Chaparral | Sunesta 264 Bowrider Boat

Length: 26 feet

Captain Included: 6 people & under: Yes | Over 6 people: More info

Capacity: 10 people

Activities: Sightseeing, tubing, wakeboarding and waterskiing

Sunshade: Yes

Gas Included: Yes

Chris Craft | Launch 25 Bowrider Boat

Length: 25 feet

Captain Included: Yes

Capacity: 6 people

Four Winns | Horizon 240 Bowrider Boat

Length: 24 feet

Please Note: While all images on this website are of the boats used by Boat Tahoe, the exact boat of your tour is determined by Boat Tahoe.

More Activities & Options

Searching for additional activities or a public boat tour for a smaller group? We’ve collaborated with top operators around Lake Tahoe to offer Public Boat Tours, Jet Ski rentals, Parasailing, and Kayak & SUP rentals.

Public Boat Tour

Starting at $125/per person

Location South Lake Tahoe Tahoe Keys Marina

Jet Ski Rental

Starting at $382

Location South Lake Tahoe Ski Run Marina

Starting at $99

Kayak & SUP Rentals

Starting at $33

Boat Tahoe manages the private boat tours featured on this site, the supplementary tours and rentals above (public boat tours, jet ski rentals, parasailing, and kayak & SUP rentals) are operated by Boat Tahoe’s partners. Booking confirmation and further details will be furnished by these partners during & upon booking.

Explore More Of Tahoe

Need the inside scoop, some savvy advice, and the ultimate booking hub for extra Lake Tahoe adventures? Say hello to TravelTahoe.com . Consider it your one-stop digital concierge, packed with expertly curated nuggets of wisdom that will help you unlock the splendor of Lake Tahoe. Just like Boat Tahoe, effortlessly book experiences that are more than just memorable – they’re downright unforgettable. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and let Lake Tahoe’s charm sweep you off your feet!

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Testimonials

The day was perfect and the boat was even better than the description. Would highly recommend using Boat Tahoe!

Our rental was such a high quality boat. It dialed in and very clean. Boat Tahoe will be my first choice next time I’m in Tahoe!

The best boat guide ever! We had an absolute blast and can’t wait to come back!

Thank you Captain Bryan for an amazing sunset tour! Gorgeous views of the lake and an incredibly fun ride. We’ll definitely be back soon!

Amazing service and totally custom to your needs. Our captain was Chad and we could not be more happy with him. Took us to great spots on the southern/western lake, background history, etc. Would certainly recommend them and would hire again if we come back again!!

The boat was beautiful and everything was so simple. We had one of the best days of our lives on the lake and Boat Tahoe was more than amazing!

Captain Zach and Duncan made our first time visit to South Lake Tahoe spectacular! Awesome hospitality, custom tunes on a beautiful boat with blankets to spare-you guys rock😀

Hands down the best boating experience in Tahoe. Zach and his staff really know their way around the lake. From booking to getting on the water, everything was perfect. Will definitely use Boat Tahoe next time we are in town.

We had a great day with Captain Zach. This trip is highly recommended for all age groups.

Had a wonderful time on the lake today. Our captain was super chill, knows the lake, and was very easy to communicate with prior to taking off. Highest recommendation for anyone considering a day on Lake Tahoe.

I booked to a sunset cruise with my friends and family with Boat Tahoe. We had a blast with our captain, Zach who was easygoing and knowledgeable about the lake. He had great insight about the lake and the year round activities in places like Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe. And took good pictures of the group. I would definitely recommend to others.

#Bryant #cap Just rocking ride and every penny worth njoyment we had. No words… take a bow and extreme fun..

Amazing experience with beautiful views. Couldn’t have been more enjoyable. Zach was very friendly and informative about the history of the lake. Loved it!

Great experience. The boat put the cherry on top of our trip. Looked better than pictured and perfect for small family or two people going out for the day. Highly recommended. You won’t find a better experience.

Awesome and very friendly guide experience! Perfect for the family!

5 of us went on the boat and it was super comfortable. Also the description is exactly what it says.. gas is included, there is no surprise costs at the end. We would totally rent from Boat Tahoe again.

Perfect day on the lake. All the water toys on board (tube, skis, wakeboard). Boat was super clean.  Couldn’t ask for a better experience. Would rent again if back in Tahoe.

Great experience, friendly captain. Made us feel at home and ensure that we enjoyed!

Great boat rental! Beautiful boat that is super smooth in the water and has all the amenities you need for a great day on Lake Tahoe. Highly recommended!

Great boat cruise and tour on Emerald Bay. A must do while in Lake Tahoe. Great time with friends…..

Excellent experience! Will definitely book again. Zach was very accommodating and enjoyable to hangout with. He also explained the History behind certain popular parts of the lake which we really enjoyed. Thank you Zach and see you this Summer.

Bryant was an amazing captain. He was timely and courteous, friendly and enthusiastic and made my husbands birthday amazing. He even DJ’d some great music for us! We saw the sun set in about 7 different spots on the lake. Outstanding time!

When out on for an EPIC boat day and had an absolute blast! It was definitely the highlight of our trip – beautiful boat with great water toys. Boat Tahoe provided such a high quality experience for our group – we will rent with them again!

We have rented boats from many different places over the last 15 years and this by far has been the best. The boat was awesome and there were no surprises.  Everything was as advertised in the pictures. We will be renting from Boat Tahoe when in Tahoe again.

Private Boat Charters in Lake Tahoe, CA for vacationers in:

Carnelian Bay, CA

Carson City, NV

Christmas Valley, CA

Crystal Bay, CA / NV

Dollar Point, CA

Gardnerville, NV

Glenbrook, NV

Homewood, CA

Incline Village, NV

Kings Beach, CA

Lake Valley, CA

Meeks Bay, CA

Ridgewood, CA

Round Hill, NV

Sand Harbor, NV

Skyland, NV

South Lake Tahoe, CA

Stateline, CA / NV

Tahoe City, CA

Tahoe Keys, CA

Tahoe Pines, CA

Timberland, CA

Truckee, CA

Zephyr Cove, NV

Boat Tahoe Contact Info

2435 Venice Dr E, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

530.208.0211

[email protected]

www.boat-tahoe.com

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LAKE TAHOE BLEU WAVE

South Lake Tahoe, California

NOW CRUISING FROM LAKE TAHOE KEYS MARINA & YACHT CLUB

Public cruises ---------------  $125 4th of july fireworks cruise      $425  , more info , wedding cruises -------------  $999 private charters -------------- $5400, call us  for more info.

Homewood Ski & Boat Package

Wedding Package

Special events and weddings.

Private Cruise Packages

13 Best Lake Tahoe Boat Tours 2024

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If you’re planning to spend some time by the water in this part of California and Nevada, then Lake Tahoe boat tours should definitely be at the top of your ‘things to do' list!

Lake Tahoe cruises allow you to see the area from a completely different angle. They can also be as relaxing or exhilarating as you like!

Create your own dinner cruise on Lake Tahoe by booking a boat with a BYO food and drinks policy, or select a Lake Tahoe sunset cruise for a real treat at the end of a busy day.

From an Emerald Bay cruise on Lake Tahoe to boat rides on Lake Tahoe by yacht or speedboat, there are lots to choose from. 

Top 3 Picks: Lake Tahoe Boat Tours

🏆 #1 TOP PICK: This sunset wine-tasting cruise is currently the ONLY wine-tasting boat tour available on Lake Tahoe. Sipping wine on a vintage boat surrounded by gorgeous mountains watching the sunset…now that sounds like a good time! As a bonus, you can pre-order an amazing charcuterie board or even bring your own picnic to enjoy!

You can take group or private boat tours on Lake Tahoe. The former offer great value for money, while the latter means you can tailor the day to suit you.

Or for a unique experience, pick Lake Tahoe water tours by kayak or paddleboard instead of by boat. 

From an Emerald Bay sunset cruise or boat tours of Lake Tahoe by speedboat to Lake Tahoe sightseeing boat tours that can include water sports, here are 13 of the best boat tours on Lake Tahoe!

☀Are you heading to Lake Tahoe in the summer? Be sure to check out my complete guide to visiting Lake Tahoe in the Summer !

13 Best Lake Tahoe Boat Tours

Wine-tasting emerald bay sunset cruise.

• Type: Wine-tasting sunset tour
• Duration: 2 hours
• Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
• Food included: No
• Drinks supplied: 8 tasting wines

This sunset dinner cruise on Lake Tahoe is the only wine-tasting tour currently operating in the area. Eight handpicked Californian wines are included.

If you like, you can preorder charcuterie platters to accompany your drinks when booking this cruise in Lake Tahoe. Or you’re welcome to bring your own picnic. 

The Golden Rose – a 1953 Chris Craft Venetian Water Taxi – provides the setting. Expect to see Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and Vikingsholm Castle at sunset during your cruise on Tahoe. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”Such an awesome intimate group. I loved the cool boat and that the amount of passengers was limited and oh so comfortable. The wines were super fun to try and the charcuterie far surpasses my expectations… Highly recommend!” Read more reviews

PRIVATE EMERALD BAY BOAT CHARTER

• Type: Private charter
• Food included: Snacks
• Drinks supplied: Soda

Booking private boat rides in the Lake Tahoe area can cost more, but makes for a far more personal and memorable experience.

The itinerary can be tailored to suit you but often includes Emerald Bay, Fannett Island, Rubicon Bay, Tallac Historic Site, and Rooster Rock in D.L. Bliss State Park.

Up to five of you can take part in this private boat tour. Taking along a picnic lunch is recommended by the operator.  

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”Absolutely first class experience, amazing! Breathtaking views, lots of photo opportunities and overall the best experience for Lake Tahoe… Would highly recommend this tour, worth every penny!” Read more reviews

CLEAR KAYAK LAKE TAHOE ADVENTURE

• Type: Kayak tour
• Duration: 1. 5 to 4 hours
• Drinks supplied: Bottled water

When the sound of South Lake Tahoe kayak tours with a difference appeals, take a look at these Tahoe lake tours by clear kayak!

Your vessel for the four-hour tour is transparent, so you can clearly see what’s going on beneath the surface of the water. 

The trip is suitable for people of all ages, whether you have any kayaking experience or not. Snacks and bottled water are supplied, and you’ll see the lake’s rugged coastline and secluded bays during the scenic trip.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”What a great experience, our crew was the best. You took great care of the entire group…” Read more reviews

PRO TIP: Planning to hike while exloring Lake Tahoe? See my top recommendations for womens hiking backpacks and the best hiking shoes for men & women ! And be sure to check out the very best trails with amazing views in Tahoe !

2-HOUR LAKE TAHOE CRUISE

• Type: Group tour (max size 18)
• Departs from: Ski Run Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe
• Drinks supplied: Local beer & wine, + soft drinks

If you want to book a group boat ride at Lake Tahoe but don’t want to travel with 50 other passengers, this could be the Tahoe boat tour to take.

With a maximum of 18 people, the yacht Blue will whisk you over the water via wind power for a couple of hours while you enjoy beer, wine, or soft drinks. 

All boat captains hold the United States Coast Guard Captain's Licenses, so you know you’re in safe hands.

These relaxed Lake Tahoe boat cruises are suitable for all types of travelers, whether you’re visiting as a family, group, couple, or unaccompanied. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”We loved our sailboat cruise!! Crew was friendly, professional, knowledgeable… We enjoyed seeing the lake from a smaller vessel… Beverage selection was impressive. Would highly recommend!” Read more reviews

👍 ARE YOU TRAVEL OBSESSED? Join ‘Our Travel Obsession' Facebook group!

2-HOUR PRIVATE SUNSET LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOUR

• Type: Private sunset tour

Take a sunset cruise on Lake Tahoe for a magical perspective on the most stunning time of day. This tour visits Vikingsholm, Rubicon Bay, and Emerald Bay, and soda is supplied to sip as you watch the sun go down. 

These sunset boat tours at Lake Tahoe are private, and you have the option of including water sports, with equipment provided. Boat Tahoe is expertly steered by a USCG-certified captain. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”The boat ride was an amazing highlight of our trip to Lake Tahoe. Captain Brandon motored us to Emerald Bay… A stunning sunset ride… Excellent service, memorable evening, and a decent price with Boat Tahoe.” Read more reviews

✔ PRO TIP: Make sure you grab your free packing checklist ! It has everything you'll need in an easy-to-use PDF checklist that you can use over & over!

PRIVATE SPEEDBOAT SUNSET LAKE TAHOE TOUR

• Type: Private sunset speedboat tour
• Duration: 2 to 4 hours
• Drinks supplied: No

If you prefer the idea of tailormade Lake Tahoe cruise tours, then you can book a trip on board a luxury speedboat.

Two or four-hour cruises are available, and you can bring your own food, drinks, and music to create a Lake Tahoe dinner cruise to remember. 

Do note that, in this case, the cost of these boat tours in the Lake Tahoe area does not include the captain’s fee or any tips. The fee is payable directly to the captain upon arrival. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”We had a wonderful experience! Thank you!” Read more reviews

2-HOUR PRIVATE WOODEN BOAT LAKE TAHOE TOUR

• Type: Private wooden boat tour

Another of the top South Lake Tahoe boat tours is one that takes place aboard a vintage-style wooden boat.

The original 1950 vessel has been fully restored, and the captain takes care to schedule your private tour for a more peaceful time of the day. 

This Emerald Bay boat tour takes place on board a 1958 Century Coronado and is for up to half a dozen of you. If time permits, you’ll call at D. L. Bliss State Park as well as Emerald Bay.

🏠Need a place to stay? Check out these cute & cozy romantic cabins in Lake Tahoe or try one of these amazing hotels with gorgeous views of the lake !

EMERALD BAY SIGHTSEEING CRUISE

• Type: Group tour
• Drinks supplied: Soda, juice, water & coffee + 1 beer or wine

You can take these affordable group cruises on Lake Tahoe either during the day or at sunset. Soft drinks plus one alcoholic option are provided, and there is also a bar on board for buying extra. 

The boat has indoor and outdoor seating so you can choose from where to admire the view. There’s plenty to spot, and sights might include Vikingsholm Castle, Fannette Island, Eagle Waterfall, and the Rubicon.

You may even see local wildlife bald eagles, wild geese, or even black bears.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ” This was definitely worth it! The captain and crew were all very friendly… It was a great ambience though. There was music playing, the others on board were friendly and we met some interesting people… Overall would recommend.” Read more reviews

HAPPY HOUR LAKE TAHOE TOUR

• Type: Happy hour group tour
• Departs from: Venice Drive, South Lake Tahoe
• Drinks supplied: Soda, juice, water & coffee

Live the high life during this Tahoe lake cruise on board a yacht.

Only soft drinks are supplied, but a bar on board means you can also buy alcohol to enjoy while cruising. Special offers apply to keep prices affordable. 

The Tahoe Bleu Wave yacht will whisk you off to Emerald Bay, one of the most photogenic spots on planet Earth. You may even be lucky enough to spot a black bear or bald eagle. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ”After multiple visits to Tahoe we finally decided to get on the water. This trip was absolutely fantastic! The boat is stunning, the views are magnificent and the crew is absolutely delightful.” Read more reviews

LUXURY SPORTS YACHT LAKE TAHOE TOUR

• Type: Private yacht tour 
• Duration: 9 to 12 hours
• Departs from: All over the Lake Tahoe area

Whether it’s east, south, west, or north Lake Tahoe boat tours you want, the option of chartering a luxury sports yacht is always an appealing prospect!

You can arrange for your private boat to collect you anywhere in the area and can bring along whatever you like in the way of food and drinks.

The powerful engine lets you cruise the length of the lake in only half an hour. As it’s a private charter you can stop wherever you want to, whether that’s the captain’s secret swimming spots, a restaurant by the lake, or Fannette Island. 

PRIVATE LAKE TAHOE WITH WATERSPORTS 

• Type: Private tour with watersports
• Duration: 4 hours
• Departs from: Captain's Corner, Tahoe Keys Marina

For fully customizable boat cruises on Lake Tahoe, check out this one. It’s one for watersports fans – or those who’d like to try their hand at something new.

Equipment including life jackets, wetsuits, water skis, wake tubes, and wakeboards is included.  

During the four-hour private tour, you can also expect to see sights such as Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, Rubicon Bay, Vikingsholm Castle, and hidden, secluded coves.

Coolers are supplied so you can keep your own food and drinks chilled, and you’re welcome to bring along what you like. 

💼Be sure to check out our guide to packing for Lake Tahoe !

SAND HARBOR PADDLEBOARD OR KAYAK TOUR

• Type: Kayak or paddleboard tour
• Departs from: Incline Village Visitor Center
• Food included: Deli-style lunch & snacks

If you’re looking for Lake Tahoe boat tours from Incline Village, this is one that stands out.

You’ll explore the unspoiled Sand Harbor and East Shore area by kayak or paddleboard. The tour includes a deli-style lunch and lasts for four hours. 

Instruction in kayaking or paddle boarding is included, and your guide will also share insights into this beautiful natural environment. Equipment, permits, and snacks are also covered. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “We got to see shorelines we would have never seen otherwise. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about Tahoe and kayaking. The guide goes at your speed so it’s perfect for any level… The experience was amazing…” Read more reviews

PRIVATE LAKE TAHOE SIGHTSEEING SPEEDBOAT CRUISE

• Type: Private speedboat tour

This Lake Tahoe lake cruise takes place on a speedboat, so you can enjoy the luxury by making the most of your time. In addition to the scenery, you’ll visit Tallac Historic Site and Camp Richardson. 

At Emerald Bay, you can stop for a swim or even snorkel if you like: snorkeling gear is supplied. It’s an exhilarating speedboat ride – plus the mountain and lake panoramas are unparalleled. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great tour and lots of information about the lake.” Read more reviews

🗺 PRO TIP: Make sure you get GypsyGuide before your trip. Their audio tours are just like having your own personal tour guide!

Lake Tahoe Cruise FAQs

Whether it’s a Lake Tahoe sunset cruise or one that takes place by day, Lake Tahoe is one of the best places for boating on earth. Emerald Bay is also one of the most photographed spots on the planet. As well as boating, the lake is also popular for water sports.  

If you take the standard public boat, this 500-passenger vessel departs daily from Zephyr Cove Resort. This is to the east of Lake Tahoe, in Nevada. You can reach Emerald Bay, in the lake’s southwest, about two-and-a-half hours from here. 

The average boat takes around seven hours to circle the shoreline of Lake Tahoe. However, most of these tours are much shorter since they do not follow the shoreline. Faster vessels, though, may make the trip in less time. Some tours take five hours, for example, with a craft such as a powered speedboat. 

Which part of Lake Tahoe to head to for a boat trip depends on what you want. There are more south Lake Tahoe cruise tours to choose from, for example than trips departing from the north. That said, Sand Harbor in the northeast is an idyllic spot for sailing, and Boat Beach there is tailor-made for boating. 

So should you take a Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay cruise in the morning, a south Lake Tahoe sunset cruise in the evening – or something in-between? During the morning, the winds are less strong, so this is a good time to head out if you prefer peaceful waters.  If you like things a little more lively, you could head to Carnelian Bay, Crystal Bay, or Zephyr Cove during the afternoon and early evening. This is when the Tahoe Zephyr kicks in to mix things up.  

If you want to go your own way rather than taking an organized Lake Tahoe lake tour, you have two choices. Charter a boat and hire a captain, or rent a vessel. Rent a Boat Lake Tahoe offers all kinds of boats, for whatever duration you want. They can even include a captain if you want someone else to navigate.

The water close to the surface of Lake Tahoe in summer ranges from 40 degrees (Fahrenheit) in winter to around 70 degrees. The water is at its warmest in July, August, and September. At this time of year, the temperature typically ranges between 65 and 70 degrees. 

The fact that Lake Tahoe doesn’t freeze is down to the depth of the water. It’s the second-deepest lake in the entire US. Due to the 1,645 feet depot, heat accumulated during summer doesn’t ever dissipate enough for the lake to freeze.  

Which Lake Tahoe Boat Rides Will You Take?

Whether it’s boat tours of Lake Tahoe around the north shore, an Emerald Bay sightseeing cruise, or one of the many group and private South Tahoe boat tours available, seeing this area from the water is simply unmissable. 

If you choose carefully and feel so inclined, you can even include water sports, lunch, or even a bucket list speed boat or yacht ride in some Lake Tahoe tours by boat.

What an awesome way to make the most of your time in the area!

What makes me the expert?

My husband and I spent a nice, long vacation in this area, and we made the most of it! We fit in as much of the fun that Lake Tahoe has to offer – visiting excellent restaurants, doing some serious hiking, dipping our toes in the lake while on trail & at the beach, taking in a sunset cruise and so much more!

In addition, I often create  custom itineraries  for my travel planning clients, and I constantly research the best of everything in every area! This guide combines our personal experiences and loads of additional research to provide you with the most complete guide to boat tours on Lake Tahoe!

🗺Heading to Yosemite National park while you are in the area? I've got you covered! Read up on things to know before you head to Yosemite , my top things to do in Yosemite , and the best places to stay in the area.

Until next time…

About The Author

My mission is to inspire and empower families to prioritize travel now, creating unforgettable memories and deeper connections with their loved ones.

I provide guidance and practical solutions to help busy parents integrate travel into their lives, fostering joy, fulfillment, and stress-free adventures. Don’t wait until it’s too late; the time to travel is now . Learn more about me & My Travel Obsession here .

*Tour photos courtesy of Viator & Get Your Guide

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• Products & Services – My Travel Obsession's travel planning products, services, and freebies!
• What To Pack – See all of my personal favorite travel items.
• Travel Resources – Resources that I use most when planning, booking & traveling.

🏡 FOR FINDING GREAT PLACES TO STAY:

• VRBO – My #1 recommendation for family-friendly lodging options.
• Expedia – My favorite for hotel bookings.

🚗 FOR CAR & RV RENTALS:

• Discover Cars & Sixt – My favorite sites for rental cars worldwide.
• Turo.com – Rent a car from an individual owner – It's like VRBO for cars!
• RVShare – Rent an RV for your next family road trip!

🚁 FOR ACTIVITIES, EXCURSIONS, & TOURS:

• Viator & Get Your Guide – The best sites to find and book activities & excursions.
• Gypsy Guide – An AWESOME audio tour app. ALWAYS check to see if they have a tour available.

🩺 FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE:

• SafetyWing – The lowest-cost travel insurance out there. Several options starting as low as $42 for 4 weeks of coverage.

✈ FOR FINDING GREAT FLIGHT DEALS:

• Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) – My #1 recommendation for saving big $$$ on flights. Sign up for a free 14-day trial.

🥾 FOR HIKING:

• AllTrails – THE APP for hikers. I recommend paying for the pro version so you can use the navigation feature while hiking.

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Private Emerald Bay Cruise

Visit Emerald Bay and the Vikingsholm

Our Private Emerald Bay Cruises are 2-hours, departing either in the morning or afternoon. Explore Lake Tahoe’s picturesque west shoreline and experience the pristine waters of Emerald Bay and Rubicon Bay. See Lake Tahoe’s most breathtaking views including Fannett Island, Eagle Falls, Rubicon Point and Sugar Pine Point.

We depart from the Tahoe Keys Marina and take guests along the beautiful west shore into Emerald Bay to view or unload and visit Lake Tahoe’s hidden castle the Vikingsholm and Fannette Island. Along the way we can drop anchor for a swim or enjoy a packed lunch, snacks and beverages. Then, we cruise through the Caribbean waters of Rubicon Bay and Meeks Bay. From there we continue back across the lake to the Marina.

We provide a cooler with ice, bottled water and sodas. Guests are welcome to bring snacks, packed lunches and beverages of their choice. Alcohol is allowed.

*Maximum capacity up to 6-passengers.

Hike, bike & get outside

Lake Tahoe Boat Cruise

By: Cam Schilling

If you’re visiting, you need to make it count by getting up close and personal with the lake and getting out on a Tahoe boat .

There’s a reason that Lake Tahoe is known as the Jewel of the Sierras, and if you want to find out why for yourself, you’ve got to be in it, on it, and breathing in that fresh lake breeze. No matter what your vacation or trip entails, a Lake Tahoe boat cruise needs to make it into your agenda, and South Lake has many different options to choose from.

There is a Lake Tahoe Boat Cruise for Everyone

Cruise for dinner or for drinks, cruise for the views, cruise for some history. There’s something to enjoy for first-timers and locals alike, and if you’ve lived here all your life, what are you waiting for? Many locals I’ve talked to have never done a Lake Tahoe boat cruise and have never been on a boat on the lake. It’s not too late; don’t miss the boat.

Grab your camera and check out some of these options for a great way to see something new or even experience something familiar in an exciting new way.

Lake Tahoe Boat Cruise Options

Zephyr Cove Resort – Lake Tahoe Cruises Zephyr Cove Resort has something fun for all four seasons, but without a doubt, it is known for its Emerald Bay cruise on its signature 500+ passenger authentic Mississippi Paddlewheeler, the M.S. Dixie II . They depart from the resort daily for sightseeing tours, but you’ll find dinner cruises and more in their cruise schedule . The cruise is about two hours round trip of majestic mountain backdrop, and with an outstanding captain and crew, there’s no wondering why it was voted “Best Boat Cruise” in Tahoe for over ten years. 

Camp Richardson’s Rum Runner Cruise The Rum Runner is Camp Richardson’s 55-ft yacht equipped with open and closed deck options, food from the Beacon Bar & Grill and of course the revered Rum Runner cocktail served up to your heart’s content. A drink so good they bought a boat and made a cruise for it… The Camp Richardson marina is set to open May 15th, at which point the Rum Runner will be making its hour and a half long excursion to Emerald Bay and back daily. You can also book it for a private event or celebration, for a detailed look at what you can expect, check out this quick video .

Tahoe Bleu Wave If you’re looking to cruise like a pro, this yacht is where you want to be. The Bleu Wave is making daily 12 pm public lunch cruises launching from the Tahoe Keys out to Emerald Bay, but if there’s something special you want to do or a place you want to see anywhere on the lake, these guys can make it happen. The 70-ft yacht is perfect for your next special event or celebration, ideal for large groups of up to 50 people with a fully stocked bar, private lounge, stateroom, fly-bridge, spacious party bow, and climate controlled indoor facilities. Check out the full list of their public cruises , and be sure to join them for their happy hour cruise 3:30-5 pm all summer long – you can save yourself some cash when you book online!

Spirit of Tahoe All aboard for the life of luxury, or at least two hours of it. Be our guest for this unforgettable sightseeing cruise aboard one of our classic yachts. Our day cruises are family-friendly and are the best way to see the many colors of Lake Tahoe. Day cruises offer narration and history of the lake by the knowledgeable captain and crew as we head to Emerald Bay where you will experience the favorite landmarks such as Eagle Falls, Vikingsholm Castle, Fannett Island (the only island in Lake Tahoe), the granite tea house that sits on the top of the island as well as the striking scenery of the Sierra mountains. . Catch the Sunset Champagne tour for a spectacular viewing of Tahoe at sunset.

If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, book the Safari Rose for a private charter. They’ve become experts with all functions and events, you can even get hitched and have a reception right on board.

Also coming this summer, the best seat in the house for the 4th of July fireworks is on the water! Lake Tahoe’s 4th of July Fireworks event, recognized by NBC as the nation’s top fireworks event, is coming back for an even bigger show. Many of the Lake Tahoe boat cruise businesses will be offering special deals to see this amazing show from the lake.

More Boat Rental options here .

Start Planning

Plan Your Trip Today!

Make planning easy with this guide to all the must-see vistas, must-eat dishes and must-experience attractions.

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Enter the Garibaldi Castle

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A Fairytale Wedding to remember

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