The 2 Best Sailing Experiences in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe offers more than just snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes; it’s also a fantastic spot for sailing and boat tours that reveal the lake’s stunning scenery from a unique perspective. Whether you’re after a relaxing wine-tasting cruise at sunset or a private yacht adventure exploring emerald bays and swim stops, South Lake Tahoe has options to suit different tastes and budgets. These experiences combine the region’s natural beauty with a touch of luxury and local flavor, making them perfect for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a peaceful day on the water.
In this guide, we’ll compare two top-rated sailing experiences: the Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise and the Lake Tahoe: Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour. Each offers a different way to explore the lake’s iconic scenery, with distinct features and appeal.
1. Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise
At number 1, this wine tasting cruise on a vintage Chris Craft offers a truly special evening experience. For 2 hours, you’ll glide across Lake Tahoe on a beautifully restored 1953 wooden boat, enjoying the company of a small group. The tour starts at 2435 Venice Dr E, where safety and orientation briefings set the tone for a relaxed outing.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of scenic views of Emerald Bay at sunset and the chance to sample 8 boutique wines from Northern California. The itinerary includes multiple stops for sightseeing, wine tasting, and photo opportunities, such as Vikingsholm and Fannette Island. The boat cruise also features scenic views along the way, creating a peaceful and intimate setting for enjoying the lake’s natural beauty.
The reviews highlight the value of the experience, with comments like, “Very informative and relaxing wine cruise,” and “Captain and staff were very friendly and cordial.” Although priced at $150 per person, the small-group setting and premium wine tastings make this a memorable outing. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special night or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic cruise with a sophisticated touch.
Bottom line: This tour excels in offering a cozy, elegant experience on vintage boats with excellent wine and sunset views, ideal for romantic evenings or wine lovers.
2. Lake Tahoe: Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour, which is a more luxurious and customizable way to see Lake Tahoe. This yacht tour on a Sea Ray is priced at $667 for a group of up to six people, making it a good choice for families or small groups seeking privacy and comfort.
During this 2-hour trip, the captain takes you along the shoreline to Emerald Bay State Park, Whiskey Cove, Rubicon Bay, and other scenic spots. Unlike the wine cruise, this trip emphasizes sightseeing and the option to swim in the lake’s clear waters. Guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks, and the yacht’s spacious layout ensures everyone has plenty of room for relaxation, photo-taking, and enjoying the tranquillity of the lake.
What makes this experience appealing is the personalized itinerary and the ability to focus on your interests without the constraints of a fixed schedule. Reviewers like “Captain Jason was amazing,” and “Got to see much more of the lake than on larger boats,” underscore how this tour offers an intimate, premium experience with lots of flexibility. This tour is most suited for travelers who want a private, high-end day on the water with the freedom to explore at their own pace.
Bottom line: For those seeking a private, customizable yacht experience with swimming and personalized sightseeing, this tour offers top-notch comfort and flexibility.
How to Choose Between These Lake Tahoe Sailing Tours
When deciding between the wine tasting sunset cruise and the lakeside yacht tour, consider your budget, interests, and group size. The wine cruise is ideal if you want a cozy, romantic evening with wine and scenic sunset views, especially if you enjoy wine tasting and a small-group setting. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
On the other hand, the private yacht tour suits those who prefer a more flexible, luxury experience with swimming, customizable routes, and more space for relaxing or taking photos. Since this tour can accommodate up to six people for $667, it offers good value for a private outing if you’re traveling with family or friends.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, when these tours tend to fill up quickly. Both experiences run around 2 hours, so check the specific availability and start times for your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
South Lake Tahoe’s sailing options provide two very different experiences to enjoy the lake’s stunning features. The Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise offers a charming, wine-focused evening perfect for romantic outings, while the Lakeside Highlights Yacht Tour delivers a luxurious, flexible day for groups seeking privacy and adventure in a high-end setting.
Whether you prefer sipping wine at sunset or exploring the lakeshore in style, both tours promise memorable views and genuine Lake Tahoe magic. Consider your group size, interest in wine versus sightseeing, and budget when making your choice. Remember to book early to secure your spot — these experiences are popular and fill up fast in the summer months.