The 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe isn’t just about skiing and hiking; its sparkling waters and dramatic shoreline offer some of the most memorable boating experiences in the Western United States. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic emerald waters of Emerald Bay, eager to sip local wines aboard a vintage boat, or looking for a private sunset cruise with your loved ones, South Lake Tahoe has something to offer. Tours range from guided daytime excursions and sunset sails to private charters and themed wine tastings, giving visitors a chance to experience the lake from every angle.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the 11 best boat experiences, highlighting what makes each unique. You’ll find options suited for different budgets, group sizes, and interests—whether you want a quick sightseeing tour, a romantic sunset cruise, or a private excursion with tailored stops. We’ll help you decide which tour fits your adventure style, so you can make the most of your time on Lake Tahoe’s shimmering surface.
1. South Lake Tahoe: Sightseeing Cruise of Emerald Bay
This 2-hour daytime cruise takes you around Lake Tahoe’s most photographed spot—Emerald Bay—on the Tahoe Bleu Wave. The $125 per person tour offers stunning views with an expert captain narrating about the lake’s history and natural beauty. One of the highlights is passing by Vikingsholm Castle, a Scandinavian-style mansion, and enjoying snacks and beverages onboard. If you choose the sunset option, you’ll witness the sky turn to fiery oranges while cruising the bay.
This tour is perfect for those craving scenic beauty and informative commentary. The small-group setting—often just a handful of passengers—makes for an intimate experience. The reviews praise the knowledgeable captain and the breathtaking views, with one guest noting, “It was one of the best things we did at Lake Tahoe!” The main downside: it can be chilly out on the water, so dress warmly.
Bottom Line: A top choice for scenic photography, learning local history, and enjoying a relaxed, guided boat ride around Emerald Bay.
2. Lake Tahoe: Scenic Sunset Cruise with Drinks and Snacks
This 2-hour evening cruise offers a different perspective—watching the sun set over Lake Tahoe from a spacious boat. For $125 per person, you’ll sip wine, beer, or soft drinks while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Emerald Bay. The boat features indoor seating and a large bow for unobstructed photo opportunities.
What makes this tour stand out is the relaxed atmosphere and focus on enjoying the sunset. The captain points out landmarks and shares stories, making it both scenic and educational. Guests love the friendly crew, with one reviewer calling the crew “amazing”—perfect for a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends.
The main drawback: depending on the weather, sunset times vary, so check the schedule. Also, alcohol consumption is limited to soft drinks and wine, so it’s not a full bar experience.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for couples or grown-up groups wanting a romantic, scenic wind-down with wine and spectacular sunset views.
3. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Wine-Tasting Boat Tour
For a unique twist, this 2-hour cruise combines sightseeing with wine tasting aboard a vintage Chris Craft boat. Priced at $150 per person, it takes you through Emerald Bay while sampling 8 wines from small Northern California wineries. The intimate setting—small group only—makes it a perfect way to relax and learn about local wines.
The highlight is the chance to enjoy boutique wines in a vintage setting, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about the lake and the wines. Stops include scenic views of Vikingsholm and Fairy Falls, with plenty of time for photos and conversation. People rave about the guides, with one saying, “Kelsy and Shane were world class.”
This tour is best for wine lovers or those looking for a more refined, relaxing experience. The downside? It’s limited to small groups, so book early.
Bottom Line: A delightful blend of scenic beauty and wine tasting, great for couples or small groups wanting a sophisticated outing.
4. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise
This 2-hour sunset cruise offers a luxurious experience aboard a vintage Chris Craft while tasting 8 curated wines from Northern California. For $150 per person, you’ll enjoy a small-group environment, with stunning views of the lake’s sunset, Emerald Bay, and Vikingsholm.
The cruise emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty, with the captain and crew attentive and friendly. The highlight is the chance to sip wine as the sky changes color—an elegant, peaceful way to end the day. The reviewer notes, “Everything was fabulous… despite some stormy weather,” showcasing the crew’s professionalism.
The main consideration? It’s pricier than some other options, but the exclusivity and scenic quality justify the cost. Dress warmly, especially if the weather turns brisk at sunset.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine aficionados and those seeking a classy, intimate sunset experience on Lake Tahoe.
5. Lake Tahoe: Daytime Scenic Cruise
This 2-hour cruise on the MS Dixie II is a classic choice for daytime sightseeing. For $99 per person, you’ll cruise past Vikingsholm Castle, Eagle Falls, and other sights while enjoying narration about the lake’s history and geology. The boat’s large windows and outdoor decks make for excellent photo opportunities.
The highlight is the combination of informative commentary and the relaxed ambiance. Guests appreciate the comfortable seating and the chance to stretch out on the deck as they absorb views of Emerald Bay. It’s a good option for families or anyone wanting a straightforward, scenic cruise with some educational content. One review states, “Very educational and relaxing—just a beautiful day.”
The main downside is that it’s a daytime tour—less romantic than sunset cruises but still highly enjoyable.
Bottom Line: An affordable, family-friendly choice for daytime sightseeing and learning about Lake Tahoe.
6. South Lake Tahoe: 2-Hour Emerald Bay Boat Tour with Captain
Offering a private experience for up to 10 people, this $645 tour features a personalized 2-hour boat ride around Emerald Bay. The tour is led by a local captain, who shares stories of the area and takes you to Vikingsholm, Fairy Falls, and other points of interest.
What sets this apart is the flexibility—you can bring your own food and drinks and customize the stops. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and many guests praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer enthuses, “Kim was the best captain we could have asked for.”
This tour is ideal for families, small groups, or special occasions. The cost is higher, but the exclusivity and customization make it worth it.
Bottom Line: A private, customizable tour perfect for those seeking a tailored experience with a small group.
7. South Lake Tahoe: Happy Hour Cruise
For $125 per person, this 2-hour cruise aboard the Tahoe Bleu Wave offers a lively, social atmosphere during happy hour. You’ll float around South Lake Tahoe, taking in iconic sights like Emerald Bay, while enjoying snacks, drinks, and a lively narration. The boat’s modern amenities and friendly crew make it a relaxing way to unwind.
The cruise is especially suited for groups looking for a fun, social experience with gorgeous lake views. Guests rave about the crew’s knowledge and friendliness, with reviews praising the “amazing service.” It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with a casual party vibe, especially if you like to sip a signature cocktail or enjoy some light snacks.
The main limitation is the focus on socializing—if you’re after a quiet, romantic cruise, this might not be your best pick.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups wanting a fun, lively tour with drinks and great views.
8. Lake Tahoe: Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour
This luxurious yacht experience costs $667 for up to 6 people and lasts 2 hours. It offers a bespoke trip to Emerald Bay, Whiskey Cove, Rubicon Bay, and other scenic spots, with the option to swim in the clear waters or relax aboard. The Sea Ray yacht provides ample space and comfort, making it perfect for small groups or special occasions.
What makes this tour stand out is the tailored itinerary and the ability to customize stops—ideal for those who want to explore at their own pace. The reviews highlight excellent captains and a memorable trip, with one guest saying, “Captain Jason was amazing—great for families or couples wanting a private, high-end experience.”
This is a high-end option, best suited for those looking for privacy and exclusivity rather than a group tour. Be prepared to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Bottom Line: A top-tier private yacht experience for a small group seeking personalization, luxury, and flexibility.
9. Lake Tahoe: 2-Hour Private Sunset Boat Charter
Priced at $749 per group, this 2-hour private sunset cruise offers a customizable experience with your own boat and captain. Perfect for a romantic evening or small celebration, you can visit Emerald Bay, swim, or just enjoy the sunset from the quiet waters. The private boat makes it ideal for couples or small groups up to 6.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, with one noting, “Beautiful, stunning sunset. The tour guide was awesome.” The tour includes the ability to customize your route, with options to water ski or relax.
The main consideration is the cost, which is higher than shared tours, but the privacy and flexibility are well worth it for special occasions.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, private sunset experience.
10. Lake Tahoe Private Scenic Boat Tours
This 2-hour private tour for up to 6 people costs $640 and includes visits to Emerald Bay, Vikingsholm, Eagle Falls, and more. The boat is a charter, allowing you to plan your route and spend as much time as you like at each stop.
The highlight is the up-close sightseeing with a friendly, knowledgeable captain. Guests rave about the guide’s personality and the ability to customize the experience. One review mentions, “Captain Troy was wonderful—informative, personable, and fun.”
This tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized, flexible sightseeing experience with family or friends, especially if you like to swim or take photos.
Bottom Line: A customizable private tour offering flexibility and in-depth exploration of Lake Tahoe’s highlights.
11. Tahoe: Emerald Bay Cruise & Vikingsholm Castle Walking Tour
This 2.5-hour combo combines a boat cruise with a walk through Vikingsholm Castle. For $249 per person, you’ll see Emerald Bay from the water and then explore the historic castle on foot. The classic wooden boat adds nostalgic charm, and the guided tour provides fascinating insights into the castle’s architecture and history.
The experience is perfect for history buffs and those wanting a more immersive visit. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized tour, with one saying, “One of the best guided tours I have ever been to.” It’s ideal for visitors who want to combine scenic sailing with cultural exploration.
The main downside? It’s a longer tour, so it requires more time and interest in history.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive experience for travelers interested in both scenery and history, especially suitable for castle enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Right Lake Tahoe Boat Tour
When selecting the best boat tour, consider your priorities: budget, group size, and interests. If you want a quick, scenic snapshot, the Daytime Scenic Cruise offers excellent value. For romance, the Sunset Wine Tasting or private sunset charters are unbeatable. Wine lovers will appreciate the wine-tasting tours, while those seeking privacy or a tailored experience should look at the private charter options.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset and private tours. Also, check the weather forecast—sometimes the lake can get windy, and a storm can make a cruise more adventurous than expected. Pack layers, especially for evening or windy trips, and bring sunscreen for daytime tours.
Most tours operate from spring through early fall, with peak season from June to September. Early bookings ensure you get your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of boat experiences—ranging from scenic sightseeing and sunset cruises to wine tastings and private charters. For a family-friendly daytime adventure, the Emerald Bay sightseeing cruise is hard to beat. If romance or relaxed sipping is your goal, then the sunset wine cruise provides a special atmosphere. Private options like the customizable private boat or luxury yacht tour give couples or small groups a tailored experience with high comfort.
Whether you choose a guided tour packed with information, a lively happy hour cruise, or a serene private sunset journey, each offers a different way to appreciate Lake Tahoe’s stunning scenery. Book early, dress appropriately for the weather, and prepare to be dazzled by one of California’s most spectacular lakes.
Enjoy your time on Lake Tahoe—trust us, it’s worth every minute.