South Lake Tahoe offers more than just breathtaking mountain views and outdoor adventures — it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine lovers. While you might not think of Tahoe as a wine destination, the area boasts unique experiences like wine-tasting boat cruises that combine spectacular scenery with boutique wines from Northern California. Whether you prefer a daytime cruise exploring Emerald Bay or a romantic sunset sail, these tours make for memorable outings on the water.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of two top-rated wine tours. The first is a 2-hour vintage boat cruise that offers a laid-back taste of Lake Tahoe’s beauty paired with carefully selected wines. The second is a sunset yacht cruise blending the magic of twilight with wine tasting, perfect for a romantic evening. Both tours are held on vintage Chris Craft boats and feature small-group settings for an intimate experience. For each, I’ll explain what makes them special, who they’re best suited for, and practical tips to help you decide which fits your style and budget.
1. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Wine-Tasting Boat Tour
At $150 per person, the Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Wine-Tasting Boat Tour offers a relaxing two-hour cruise on a vintage Chris Craft wooden boat, which is the only wine-tasting boat of its kind on Lake Tahoe. This tour departs from either Tahoe Keys Marina or 2435 Venice Dr E, giving you flexible options. The boat’s charm, combined with the small-group setting, makes for an intimate experience. As you cruise through Emerald Bay, one of Tahoe’s most iconic spots, you’ll sip on eight boutique wines from Northern California.
The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enriching the experience with some local history. Guests love the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to enjoy spectacular scenery while tasting hand-selected wines. Expect to learn about the wines and the lake’s history from your friendly crew, who make sure everyone feels comfortable.
This tour is perfect for those who want a laid-back, scenic adventure with wine. It’s especially suitable for couples or small groups looking for a memorable daytime outing that combines lake vistas with wine tasting. One guest called it “a great day on Lake Tahoe sipping wonderful wine,” highlighting how enjoyable the experience was despite the small group size. The only potential downside is that it’s a relatively short two-hour cruise, so wine connoisseurs seeking a more extensive tasting might want to consider other options.
Bottom Line: A charming, intimate boat tour with stunning scenery and a boutique wine selection. Ideal for a relaxed, scenic daytime outing.
2. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise
This Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise offers a two-hour voyage on a vintage Chris Craft boat, with the added magic of a spectacular Lake Tahoe sunset. Starting at 2435 Venice Dr E, the tour combines the beauty of emerald waters with the warm glow of twilight, all while sampling eight boutique wines from Northern California. The relaxed, small-group environment makes this a popular choice, especially for couples seeking a romantic experience.
Guests describe the crew as friendly and attentive, with one reviewer noting that despite a sudden storm, the captain’s calm handling kept everyone safe and comfortable. The crew kept everyone informed during the storm, and the boat held up well, turning a potentially unsettling situation into part of the adventure. Many find the sunset views and wine tasting to be the highlight, creating an ambiance that’s hard to beat.
This tour appeals to those who want a romantic, evening activity or a special way to end a day in Tahoe. It’s slightly more expensive than the daytime cruise but offers a unique experience that couples and small groups will treasure. If you’re interested in capturing that perfect sunset moment combined with boutique wines, this is a clear favorite. The main consideration is weather unpredictability — a storm can make the ride bumpy, but the crew’s professionalism ensures safety.
Bottom Line: A romantic sunset cruise blending scenic views with boutique wines, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying Lake Tahoe’s evening glow.
How to Choose Between These Wine Cruises
Deciding which tour suits you best depends on what kind of experience you’re after. For a daytime adventure, the Emerald Bay Wine-Tasting Boat Tour provides a relaxed, scenic journey with plenty of time to enjoy the views and wines. It’s a good pick if you appreciate a quiet, intimate vibe and want to learn about Tahoe’s history along the way.
On the other hand, if you’re after something more romantic or picturesque to cap off your day, the Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise delivers a memorable evening with breathtaking sunset views. Keep in mind that weather can impact this experience, so booking on a clear evening is wise.
Both tours are priced the same at $150 per person and last about two hours. They are perfect for small groups or couples — the kind of experience that feels exclusive but is accessible. Make sure to check availability and book early, especially for sunset cruises during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
South Lake Tahoe’s wine-tasting boat tours offer a delightful way to combine scenic beauty with boutique wines. The daytime cruise provides a peaceful exploration of Emerald Bay with a focus on scenery and wine, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed, educational outing. The sunset cruise elevates the experience with a romantic ambiance and stunning views at twilight, perfect for special occasions or memorable evenings.
If you’re looking for a casual, scenic wine experience, the daytime cruise is a great pick. For a romantic or sunset experience, the evening yacht cruise offers a more atmospheric option. Both tours provide a unique way to enjoy Lake Tahoe’s waters beyond typical sightseeing.
In the end, booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a memorable water-based wine experience that adds a special flavor to your Tahoe trip.