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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
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
- 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
- Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: Snacks
- 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)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departs from: Ski Run Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: No
- 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
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2-HOUR PRIVATE SUNSET LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOUR
- Type: Private sunset tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: No
- Drinks supplied: Soda
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
- Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: No
- 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
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: Snacks
- Drinks supplied: Bottled water
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
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departs from: Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: Snacks
- 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
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departs from: Venice Drive, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: Snacks
- 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
- Food included: No
- Drinks supplied: Bottled water
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
- Food included: No
- Drinks supplied: No
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
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departs from: Incline Village Visitor Center
- Food included: Deli-style lunch & snacks
- Drinks supplied: No
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
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departs from: Venice Drive, South Lake Tahoe
- Food included: Snacks
- Drinks supplied: No
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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