Year Round Daily Cruises on Lake Tahoe
Welcome to Tahoe Cruises, home of our 2 tour boats the Spirit of Tahoe and Safari Rose .
For more than 45 years, Tahoe Cruises has been offering unforgettable tours of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay, along with hosting weddings, private charters, and sunset cruises.
Breathtaking Views
Unforgettable memories, 1st class staff, our cruises – year round, emerald bay day cruise.
Sunset Champagne Cruise to Emerald Bay
Magical Lake Tahoe
An experience of a lifetime, voted best cruise, … on lake tahoe for the past 7 years including 2024..
If you’re looking for a terrific day on the lake, Tahoe Cruises is it. Tahoe Cruises offers daily cruises to Emerald Bay and South Shore (seasonal) as well as a fabulous sunset cruise. No matter what your plans include for your vacation or special event, we invite you to share those memorable times cruising the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe aboard our fine yachts.
Testimonials
This cruise around the lake was so beautiful and relaxing! They give you a little history and offer some refreshments. Me and my family had a great time!
Fantastic experience! Crew was amazing, views were awesome! Highly recommend!
One of the biggest highlights of our trip! The staff on the boat were so nice, helpful, and interactive. Made the experience above and beyond. We couldn’t be more happy with how it went!
This was my first time to Tahoe. It offers so many things to do, BUT by far, a must do on each of my returning trips will be this cruise. One of the best moments spent in lake tahoe were on this cruise. The staff really nice and the views the views the views 😍🤩 absolutely beautiful. Thank you for an unforgettable view of Lake Tahoe 🫶
The folks running the Safari Rose were very friendly, the boat was great, snacks and booze good. Highly recommend this tour. We did the sunset Cruise….perfect!
Had a great sunset cruise on the Safari Rose! The crew was great and provided great drinks, appetizers, commentary and blankets to enjoy the scenery. Kids enjoyed feeding Jonathan the seagull. Loved the unique boat – highly recommend this!
Tahoe Cruises reserves the right to determine which vessel will be in service on any particular day. The captain determines the right to choose an alternate destination due to weather if it makes for a safer and more comfortable cruise.
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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.
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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
Take a dip. Trust us.
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 .
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9 Must-Try Lake Tahoe Boat Tours to Make Waves and Have a Blast
Looking for a fun-loving boating day out on the shimmering waters of Lake Tahoe?
If you’re dreaming of setting sail on crystal-clear waters or speeding past the mountainous coastlines, then a Lake Tahoe boat tour should be at the top of your bucket list.
I’ve had the fortunate chance to see Lake Tahoe twice, once in summer and once in winter, to experience everything from hikes in Emerald Bay to skiing the epic slopes to adventurous kayak rides around the lake.
But do you want to paddle yourself, take a daytime cruise, or sip champagne in the lap of a luxurious yacht? Personally, I’m all for sailing the high lakes or gliding across in a clear-bottom kayak at sunset, but there are so many choices for a boat tour in town.
Just want to pick the best? This is my top choice . Reserve this 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe with a perfect 5-star rating that goes all around the southern shorelines.
If that doesn’t float your boat, below are 10 other Lake Tahoe boat tours, all led by local guides and thoroughly vetted by us.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Boat Tours on Lake Tahoe
2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe
✔️ 40 foot sailing vessel for 18
✔️ Alcohol & Drinks
Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe
✔️ Transparent Bottom Kayaks
✔️ Paddle the Southern Shoreline
✔️ All Equipment
Private Yacht-Class Boat Tour on Lake Tahoe
✔️ Luxury Boat for up to 6
✔️ All must-see south attractions
Top Boat Tours of Lake Tahoe
1. 2 hour sailing cruise.
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Join Sail Tahoe Blue, the top sailing charter in South Lake Tahoe. You won’t be on a typical crowded boat tour with over 50 passengers; instead, you’ll be one of just 18 people on “Blue,” a comfortable sailing yacht.
Enjoy the peace of moving across the water, powered by natural winds, without any engine noise or exhaust. The two-hour public cruise route changes with the wind, making every trip different and exciting.
You can trust you’re in good hands as all captains hold the United States Coast Guard Captains Licenses for maximum safety. Each cruise includes complimentary local beer and wine and non-alcoholic drinks to stay refreshed.
The ride was relaxing and there were not too many folks. The crew was nice and easy to converse with. Overall it was a very pleasant experience with varying seating options. – MARY ( Read more reviews )
2. Clear Kayak Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 2.5 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Experience the clear beauty of Lake Tahoe with this top-tier clear kayaking tour . The tour kicks off at Sand Harbor State Park on transparent kayaks, which let you see the deep blue and clear waters of one of North America’s deepest lakes.
The tour takes you along Tahoe’s southern shoreline, paddling towards the well-known Bonsai Rock. The transparent kayak lets you see 65 feet (20 meters) below the water’s surface, showing a 365-degree view of the incredible underwater world beneath and above.
The cost covers private transportation, parking, facility fees, and return shuttle service. You’ll have a US Coast Guard-approved PFD, bottled water, and, of course, a clear kayak and paddle. Plus, this tour is limited to only 5 people.
Great people, great experience. Pam and Dennis are extremely nice and welcoming. We went late in the season and it felt like a private tour of one of the most incredible places in the world. – JUSTIN ( Read more reviews )
3. Private Yacht-Class Boat Tour
Get ready for a unique trip on Lake Tahoe on this private yacht tour designed for you and up to five friends, complete with a dedicated captain to guide your exploration of the lake. Experience breathtaking views while exploring well-known destinations such as Emerald Bay, D.L. Bliss State Park, and the array of bays and beaches encircling the lake.
You’ll see Laura Knight’s “ Vikingsholm ” in Emerald Bay and her cute tea house on Fannette Island. You’ll also see the impressive “Eagle Falls.” There are plenty of activities at D.L. Bliss State Park, from rock climbing to cliff jumping . You’ll also pass by the fancy homes of Rubicon Estates to get a peek into the luxury lakeside life.
Sit back and relax on a high-class boat with a package that comes with bottled water and multiple departure times.
We had a fantastic day touring Lake Tahoe!! Captain J was wonderful…very informative. He answered all our questions and showed us all there was to see on Lake Tahoe. It was nice having the boat to ourselves as well. It was a chilly day on the lake and Captain J was prepared with blankets and water! Highly recommend! – MARIE ( Read more reviews )
4. Private Boat Charter with Captain Half Day
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Or if that yacht is not your style, there are plenty more like this Emerald Bay boat charter , designed just for your group of up to 6 . But this time, it’ll be a full half-day trip with four hours on the water.
Similar to the itinerary of the shorter trip above, this voyage takes you across the lake to beautiful beaches on a comfortable boat. You’ll visit iconic places like Vikingsholm Castle and D.L. Bliss State Park.
Your trip starts with a pass by the historic Camp Richardson, a resort known for its beachside dining. Next, you’ll see the lovely blue-green waters of Emerald Bay State Park , one of Lake Tahoe’s nicest areas, and walk on quiet hiking trails.
Then, it’s off to the shores of Emerald Bay to see the impressive Vikingsholm Castle, followed by a ride to the D.L. Bliss State Park and Sugar Pine State Park, known for its luxurious Hellman-Ehrman Mansion. Lastly, get a good look at the famous house from the movie Godfather Part 2 in Homewood.
This tour includes life jackets, a first aid kit, restroom facilities, snacks, and drinks.
We went out on the water for a half day tour with Bryan & he did a wonderful job of hitting the highlights of South Lake Tahoe & providing interesting details about the area. He was very knowledgable & friendly. We would highly recommend his tour to others & would consider doing it again on a future visit! – alexa ( Read more reviews )
5. Sunset Wine & Cheese Emerald Bay Boat Charter
Explore Lake Tahoe’s beauty away from the crowds on this boat charter that comes with food . You’ll journey through Emerald Bay, D.L. Bliss State Park, and Rubicon Bay . As the sun sets, chomp down on a selection of cheeses, fruits, crackers, and fine white wines.
The tour is customized for your group and may include stops at scenic spots like Sugar Pine State Park , Secret Harbor, Sand Harbor, and Ski Beach . You’ll also see Fannett Island, Lake Tahoe’s only island. If weather permits, you can dock at the beach and Vikingsholm.
The blue waters of D.L. Bliss State Park are fantastic for thrill-seekers wanting to rock climb and jump off 30-foot Rooster Rock. This relaxed cruise will end in Rubicon Bay, a popular spot for swimming in the green water.
This tour is smaller, allowing for up to four guests . Safety equipment, alcoholic drinks, and snacks are included.
A beautiful experience! Bryan was professional, unbelievably kind and very knowledgeable. The views were amazing and the wine and cheese was delicious. A romantic and relaxing way to spend the evening on the lake. Would recommend to anyone looking to spend some quality time on the lake! Thanks for everything! – jo ( Read more reviews )
6. Private Pontoon Boat Rental in Lake Tahoe
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 Hours | 😍 Book it!
Rent a private pontoon boat from Tahoe Keys and travel across the blue waters. The 23-foot Bennington pontoon boat comes with luxury features like a lounger, changing room, and a Rockford Bluetooth stereo.
It can accommodate up to 11 guests , making it suitable for small groups or family outings. Plus, you have the c hance to be the captain of your voyage (if you happen to have a minimum of two years’ experience in handling similar boats).
Begin from South Lake Tahoe with options for morning or afternoon departures. The rental package includes a logo T-shirt, pool noodles, life vests, and an ice chest. If you prefer not to steer the boat, we can help you find experienced captains on the lake (their hourly wages are not included).
Dennis was an amazing host! Thank you for ensuring our trip was so smooth and fun! We hosted clients for the full day and our Captain Tom was awesome. He took us to the best spots and shared all of his knowledge of the Lake. It made for a wonderful trip! ( Read more reviews )
7. Kayak Tour of Historic Lake Tahoe West Shore
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: Hours | 😍 Book it!
Join this 2.5-hour kayak tour to partake in the beauty of summer in Tahoe while learning about its local history and legends , such as tales of early settlers and the unfortunate fate of the Donner Party.
From near the main marina in Tahoe City, start bright and early to avoid the summer crowds. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your kayak, paddle, life vest, and a brief safety orientation.
As your kayak cuts through the crisp, snow-fed lake, take in the west shore’s laid-back culture while you hear stories of the early settlers who built simple lakeside cabins, narratives from California’s history, and interesting facts about Teddy Roosevelt’s unsuccessful attempts to make the area a national park.
The tour package includes a guided tour, kayak, paddle, and life vest rental, and caters to all abilities and experience levels capped at 8 participants.
Our guide provided us a safe and serene morning Kayak adventure. It was breathtaking and we went at a leisurely pace. I highly recommend this activity. – sarah ( Read more reviews )
8. Evening LED Glow Clear Kayak Tour
If you’re looking for something to do at night, sign up for an evening excursion on this LED Glow Clear Kayak paddle . As night approaches and the sky darkens, light up the lake with LED-lit clear kayaks.
Enjoy the soft glow as you row through calm waters encircled by the towering Sierra Nevada Mountains. With stars shining above and the colorful lights from our kayaks reflecting below, this 1.5-hour guided tour is certainly different.
Start from the marina onto the lake for the final light of the sunset and the nocturnal life of the surrounding ecosystem. The tour provides basic instruction for beginners.
The package includes an LED-lit transparent kayak, paddle, USCG-approved PFD, bottled water, and snacks for up to 5 people.
It turned out to be lucky that our morning clear kayak tour was canceled (due to winds). Giovanni made the stargazing tour a lot of fun! We learned so much about Tahoe History, the lake itself, and we saw the constellations above like never before. It truly felt like we were at a planetarium… but kinda romantic also. ( Read more reviews )
9. Stargazing Tour on Lake Tahoe – 2 Hours Private Boat Charter
Get ready for another moonlit boat tour for those who don’t want to actually tire out those arms. As evening approaches, sail along the scenic east shore during the sunset before a night sky of stars comes out to impress.
Captain Bryan, a seasoned and licensed captain, will guide your voyage on a high-end boat. Your route includes incredible spots like Emerald Bay and Nevada Beach.
This two-hour private charter includes drinks like soda, snacks, and bottled water and is limited to 6 people.
Awesome ride through Emerald Bay with history provided by Bryan, our captain. An hour in the middle of Lake Tahoe watching the Milky Way appear in a clear sky with distant lightening flashing. What could be better. Incredible experience! – helen ( Read more reviews )
Lake Tahoe Travel Guide and FAQ
When’s the best time to visit lake tahoe.
It’s a tough call to say that summer or winter is better to go to Lake Tahoe. For a boat trip, definitely the summer is much warmer and pleasant as it gets windy out on the waters and you can actually swim. However, the area is also famous for it’s numerous world-class ski resorts in the winter months.
Why is Lake Tahoe so famous?
Lake Tahoe is renowned for its clear waters and impressive size, ranking it among North America’s largest lakes. Its endorheic basin means it drains into the Truckee River instead of flowing towards the ocean, which is what makes it so clean. The lake is also a major tourist attraction with world-class skiing and summer outdoor recreation.
Is Lake Tahoe expensive?
Visiting Lake Tahoe is not cheap. It’s hard to find availability in budget-friendly hotels, especially near the shores. Boat trips and ski resort passes are expensive leisure activities. However, there are certain cost-effective ways to see the area, too, like hiking or going for scenic drives .
How much does a boat ride in Lake Tahoe cost?
The price of a boat ride in Lake Tahoe can fluctuate depending on the type of boat, the length of the ride, and whether it’s a private or group tour. Kayak tours can range from $50 to $100 per person. Private boat charters can cost anywhere from $300 to $600 for a couple of hours, while group tours on larger boats can range from $30 to $80 per person.
How long does it take to boat around Lake Tahoe?
The time it takes to boat around Lake Tahoe can depend on the speed of your boat. With a shoreline of about 72 miles, it could take several hours to navigate around the entire lake.
Final Thoughts: Best Lake Tahoe Boat Tours
Undoubtedly, gliding around on a boat, kayak, or yacht on Lake Tahoe is one of the most fun experiences you can have. I may have brought my own kayak to get sunburned on the serene waters, but in lieu of having your own, I highly recommend joining a trip to absorb the beauty of this place.
In case you missed it, here are my favorites:
- See the dazzling blues of the lake; join this sailing adventure .
- Paddle around and see the depths of the blue waters; sign up for this clear kayak outing .
- Go on a private charter for just your group; book this luxury yacht class experience .
And if you’re looking for other things to do in Lake Tahoe , check out my full guide on what to do around the lake, especially if you only have a day.
Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?
I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.
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Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
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