11 Best Lake Tahoe Boat Tours
Looking for Lake Tahoe boat tours?
We have 11 Lake Tahoe boat tours for you to choose from, and most are private Lake Tahoe boat tours.
I’ve taken several Lake Tahoe boat tours over the years and vetted all the tours in this article to ensure they’re highly rated and well-reviewed, so all you’ve to do is book and enjoy!
Don’t have time to read the whole article? I recommend this Private Boat Charter on Lake Tahoe — with a perfect 5-star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If that’s not for you, there are many other options for those who want to tour Lake Tahoe, California via boat!
There’s something here for every kind of traveler. You can find private yachts for large groups, more intimate experiences, and even niche Lake Tahoe sailboat rentals.
Your perfect experience awaits! Below, you’ll find 11 of the best boat cruises Lake Tahoe offers, so you know you’re making the right choice when booking your tour.
Our Top 3 Picks: Best Lake Tahoe Boating Tours
✓ Jump from the boat into the water
✓ Water sports equipment included
✓ Likely to sell out!
Top Lake Tahoe Private Boat Tours
Want to get out on beautiful Lake Tahoe for some Tahoe boating? Rent a boat in Lake Tahoe for hours of outdoor fun and sun.
We’ve vetted these 11 Private Lake Tahoe Boat Charters for you.
Get out on the water, experience Lake Tahoe, and explore the area on these amazing boat tours. ⛴️
1. Private Boat Charter Lake Tahoe
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | Check Rates and Availability
This Private Boat Charter on Lake Tahoe is the perfect way to explore some of Lake Tahoe’s most breathtaking sites with your closest friends and family — it holds up to 7 people.
This half-day experience treats you to sodas and continuous snacks on this personalized experience.
The Private Boat Charter on Lake Tahoe wins the Badge of Excellence for best boat tours of Lake Tahoe. 🏆
The best part? You’ll be taken to some of Lake Tahoe’s breathtaking parts, including landmarks Vikingsholm Castle, D.L. Bliss State Park, and Camp Richardson, a spectacular lakeside resort in South Lake Tahoe.
On the shores of Emerald Bay is Vikingsholm Castle, a marvelous example of 9th-century Scandinavian architecture. There will be time to get off the boat and tour the grounds.
You’ll also be taken past Homewood, where a scene from The Godfather Part II was shot, along with the actual house and boat house that appeared in the film.
So why not charter a boat to visit and explore the gorgeous Vikingsholm Castle and the hidden beaches of Lake Tahoe?
We had a great time! Family of 6. Great way to experience the lake! Loved swimming off the boat. Bryan was a wonderful host!
— matthew (read more reviews)
LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
2. Private Boat Charter with Captain: Boat Tahoe
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | Check Rates and Availability
Set sail on this Lake Tahoe Yacht Charter and uncover the hidden gems of Lake Tahoe, where paradise meets the bright blue waters of Emerald Bay.
Enjoy Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, Vikingsholm, and D.L. Bliss State Park, or spend your time engaged in water sports, perfect for groups of up to six.
The boat is stocked with water equipment for waterskiing, wakeboarding, or tubing.
The best part? You can customize this boat cruise in Lake Tahoe to fit your preferences. The USCG (Coast Guard Licensed) Captain is ready to make your journey unforgettable along Lake Tahoe.
So why not charter a boat to visit the famous Emerald Bay and the gorgeous beaches of Lake Tahoe? Anything is possible on this Private Yacht Tour of Lake Tahoe.
Lake Tahoe Private Boat Tours Reviews:
We had a great day on the water with “Cap.” We were able to see a lot of the lake and had a great time tubing. It was perfect!.
— jonathon (read more reviews)
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
3. Sunset Wine & Cheese Emerald Bay Boat Charter
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | Check Rates and Availability
Enjoy a selection of wines, cheeses, fruits and crackers, and stunning lake views as you cruise through Rubicon Bay on this customizable Sunset Wine & Cheese Emerald Bay Boat Charter.
This sunset cruise is perfect for groups of 4.
‼️ Sunset Wine & Cheese Emerald Bay Boat Charter is likely to sell out, buy tickets in advance‼️
This two-hour adventure will take you in a stylish boat that promises a comfortable and smooth ride as you visit some of Lake Tahoe’s most beautiful spots from the water.
We had such a great time. It was totally relaxing. Captain George was a great captain. Had so much knowledge of the area. Rocked our tunes. And just easy going. And the sunset over the mountains made our day.
— maggie (read more reviews)
This Sunset Wine & Cheese Emerald Bay Boat Charter is a customizable itinerary based on your interests.
Potential stops include Emerald Bay, Sugar Pine State Park, Secret Harbor, Sand Harbor, and Ski Beach.
Want to be driven around in a comfy boat on Lake Tahoe and eat cheese and drink wine? Yes, please!! 🥂
LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
4. Private Yacht-Class Boat Tour on Lake Tahoe
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | Check Rates and Availability
This Private Yacht-Class Boat Tour on Lake Tahoe is for you and up to five of your closest friends.
Everything on this boat tour is first class, from the experienced local guide to the yacht. There are also many tour times from which to choose.
Travel in comfort in a yacht-class vessel while your guide gives a tour of Lake Tahoe. See sights like Laura Knight’s Vikingsholm in Emerald Bay, her tea house on Fannette Island, and Eagle Falls.
Get off the yacht to see the D.L. Bliss State Park cliffs, the Rubicon lighthouse, and all the activities there, like slacklining rock climbing, and cliff jumpers.
This tour gets a lot of great five-star reviews.
Captain Jason was awesome! He was informative, fun, and an experienced captain. This boat trip was the highlight of our stay in Lake Tahoe.
— victoria (read more reviews)
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
5. Private Boat Tour on the White Lightning
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | Check Rates and Availability
Embark from Tahoe Keys Marina. The captain will then set the course westward towards Camp Richardson, where you’ll immerse yourselves in the historical ambiance dating back to 1890.
This 2-hour Private Boat Tour in the White Lightning continues as you pass Kiva and Baldwin Beach before venturing into Emerald Bay, one of the nation’s most frequently captured landscapes.
‼️ Private Boat Tour on the White Lightning —likely to sell out, buy tickets in advance‼️
Next, spend time off the boat viewing the majestic bay against the beautiful Vikingsholm Castle.
The captain will then take the boat north along the scenic west shore, ultimately reaching D.L. Bliss State Park and the breathtaking waters of Rubicon Bay, which are among the most pristine in all of Lake Tahoe.
I highly recommend this beautiful tour! Matt was really knowledgeable about the history of the lake and took us to all the great spots. We had such a great time!
— jenny (read more reviews)
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
6. Private Boat Tour Lake Tahoe on the White Lightning
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | Check Rates and Availability
In case you want more time on the White Lightning, this tour is like tour #5, but with an additional two hours to be on the lake, off the lake, or in the waters of Lake Tahoe.
This exclusive 25-foot powerboat has a fully upgraded interior and can hold up to 8 people. It comes complete with a seasoned driver, allowing you to unwind and relish the day to the fullest.
This powerboat exudes luxury and speed, boasting a 502 mag 436-horsepower engine, a state-of-the-art $3,000 stereo system, and an open bow for unobstructed enjoyment.
‼️ Private Boat Tour on the White Lightning is likely to sell out, buy tickets in advance‼️
Departing from the Tahoe Keys Marina, your voyage begins with scenic passages past the captivating Pope Beach, the serene Baldwin Beach, and the historically rich Camp Richardson.
Your journey continues as the Captain gracefully navigates toward the renowned Emerald Bay, a locale that has graced countless photographs and stands as an emblem of natural grandeur.
Here, you’ll encounter Lake Tahoe’s sole island, Fannette Island, and witness the iconic Vikingsholm Mansion.
Venturing further along the western shoreline, you’ll meander through Rubicon Bay, eventually arriving at McKinney Bay, home to the illustrious “Godfather House.”
On this tour, there’s ample time for swimming and sunbathing – the clock is yours to savor the enchanting wonders of Lake Tahoe while aboard your very own private luxury boat.
We had a great day on the lake! Brian and Karen were very accommodating it’s our reservation and our captain Daniel was a fantastic host!
— trip advisor guest (read more reviews)
LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
7. Luxury Yacht Class Tour Lake Tahoe
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4.5 hours | Check Rates and Availability
Cruise in style on this Luxury Yacht Charter on Lake Tahoe with up to five of your friends.
Bring a cooler of food and drinks to have lunch on this stylish boat that guarantees a smooth ride.
The 4 hour trip seemed like an hour! We highly recommend this experience and will be returning requesting J as our Captain!
— TRIP ADVISOR GUEST (read more reviews)
On this Luxury Yacht Tour of Lake Tahoe, feel free to swim off the boat into the beautiful water of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay.
Start this boat rental in South Lake Tahoe and then hit popular spots like Rubicon Peak, Emerald Bay State Park, D.L. Bliss State Park, Rooster Rock, Vikinsholm Castle, and Eagle Falls.
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
8. Private Lake Tahoe East Shore Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | Check Rates and Availability
Embark on a stylish journey along Lake Tahoe’s picturesque eastern shoreline aboard a meticulously restored 1958 Century Coronado classic wooden boat on this Private Lake Tahoe East Shore Tour.
Enjoy snacks and the cool Tahoe air with a seasoned Captain at the helm of this truly unique vessel.
A beautiful boat, a great captain and unbelievably gorgeous Lake Tahoe-we had an excellent time and would highly recommend Ed and his boat.
— trip advisor guest (read more reviews)
You and a group of up to six passengers can relax and savor the breathtaking vistas.
Gliding gracefully through the waters, you’ll pass by enchanting landmarks such as Round Hill Pines, Zephyr Cove, Cave Rock, and Glenbrook.
LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
9. Luxury Boat Rental Lake Tahoe
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 4 hours | Check Rates and Availability
You’ll see the best of Lake Tahoe on your terms with this Private Luxury Boat Charter.
For an unparalleled Lake Tahoe cruising experience, reserve the striking “Grateful Red” custom speedboat for your family or friends.
This bright red boat really stands out against the emerald blue waters of Emerald Bay.
This tour allows you to swim in secluded bays and hop ashore to explore trails and historic mansions.
‼️ This Luxury Boat Charter is likely to sell out, buy tickets in advance‼️
According to the reviews, the Captain even rescued a dog from the waters of Lake Tahoe while at the same time making his guests feel taken care of.
Highly recommend this excursion! 10 out of 10. We spent our anniversary/my sons birthday on this boat visiting the best places in Tahoe.
— jessica (read more reviews)
This exceptional vessel will be exclusively at your disposal for a half day, accompanied by a skilled captain to escort you to the lake’s most captivating destinations.
You have the flexibility to pause at your leisure, whether it’s for a refreshing swim in Rubicon Bay, an exploration of Vikingsholm and the Hellman-Erhman mansion, or a leisurely hike along the shaded trails of Emerald Bay—all on a timetable that suits your preferences.
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
10. Private Boat Charter of Lake Tahoe
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hour | Check Rates and Availability
This 27-foot Bayliner XR7 boat rental fits up to 14, but the Captain only allows 6 for a roomier, more relaxing experience.
In addition, snacks and beverages are complimentary on this tour.
Pass by Emerald State Park, where you’ll see Vikingsholm Castle and the Tea House on Fanette Island.
The Private Boat Charter wins the Badge of Excellence for best boat tours on Lake Tahoe. 🏆
Excellent tour, and great time on the lake! Guide/Captain was efficient, knowledgeable and friendly. Would absolutely book again.
— angie (read more reviews)
Then, cruise by Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, where your Captain will show you the site of the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship and describe the world-class party they host every July.
This tour finishes with a cruise by D.L. Bliss State Park, where you’ll check out the beach and amazing emerald-colored water.
Bonus: this boat is so large it comes with an enclosed toilet compartment. 🚽
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
11. Emerald Bay Private Boat Tours
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 2 hours | Check Rates and Availability
Embark on an extraordinary shoreline voyage and immerse yourself in the crystalline waters of Emerald Bay and Rubicon Bay on this Emerald Bay Private Boat Tour.
Revel in the most awe-inspiring panoramas that Lake Tahoe has to offer, including sights like Fannette Island, Eagle Falls, Rubicon Point, and the stunning Rubicon Bay.
Troy was a great host! He was great company and was best informative about the whole tour. He stayed on schedule and made sure the boat ride was smooth for all of us! 10/10 recommend.
— harmeet (read more reviews)
The Captain will drop the anchor at one of Lake Tahoe’s unspoiled coves or pristine beaches for a leisurely picnic or a dip in the Caribbean-like waters.
Your journey begins at the Tahoe Keys Marina, guiding you and your guests (up to six total) along the scenic west shore into the heart of Emerald Bay, where you’ll encounter the concealed treasure of Lake Tahoe—the Vikingsholm Castle, as well as the majestic Eagle Falls and Fannette Island.
Following this, navigate north along the west shore through the azure waters of Rubicon Bay before returning across the lake to the marina.
To keep you refreshed, the Captain provides a cooler stocked with ice, bottled water, and sodas.
You’re also welcome to bring your own snacks, packed lunches, and beverages of your choice, including alcohol.
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
How much is a boat ride in Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe Private Boat Tours Cost
Lake Tahoe boat cruise prices vary quite a bit depending on the time and duration of the boating tour.
The fees range from $600 to about $1,200 on this list of Lake Tahoe private boat tours.
LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
What part of Lake Tahoe is best for boating?
Each area around the lake has its own unique charm and attractions, so you can choose the one that aligns with your preferences.
The best area for boating in Lake Tahoe largely depends on the boating experience you’re seeking.
Below are some popular areas for boating on Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe Boat Tours
South Lake Tahoe offers several marinas and boat rental options, making it a convenient starting point for boating.
South Lake Tahoe boat rentals allow you to explore the southern part of the lake, including Emerald Bay, known for its stunning scenery and clear blue waters.
North Lake Tahoe Boat Tours
The northern part of the lake is quieter and less crowded than the southern end.
Kings Beach, Tahoe City, and Carnelian Bay have marinas and boat launch facilities.
You can explore the quieter and more serene waters of the northern shore in your own boat as well.
Emerald Bay
Emerald Bay, located on the southwestern shore of Lake Tahoe, is a must-visit destination for boaters.
The bay is home to Emerald Bay State Park and Fannette Island, offering breathtaking views and clear waters.
There’s a public boat launch at Emerald Bay State Park.
Zephyr Cove
On the southeastern shore, Zephyr Cove is a popular spot for boating and water sports.
You can rent boats and enjoy the scenic beauty of this area. It’s also known for its cruises to Emerald Bay.
Tahoe City
Tahoe City is another excellent starting point for boating adventures on the northwestern shore.
You can explore the waters of the west shore and head towards Meeks Bay or Homewood for more peaceful experiences.
Incline Village
Incline Village, on the northeastern shore, has a marina and boat launch facilities.
It’s a good starting point for exploring the lake’s eastern shore.
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
How long does it take to boat around Lake Tahoe?
The time it takes to circumnavigate Lake Tahoe by boat can vary widely depending on several factors, including the speed of your boat, stops along the way, and weather conditions.
Lake Tahoe is the second-deepest lake in the United States, covering approximately 191 square miles (495 square kilometers). It has a shoreline of about 72 miles (116 kilometers).
If you continuously cruise around the lake without stopping and maintain an average speed of around 25-30 miles per hour (40-48 kilometers per hour), completing the loop might take approximately 3-4 hours.
However, most boaters take their time to enjoy the stunning scenery, stop at various points of interest, swim, and relax along the way.
LAKE TAHOE PRIVATE BOAT TOURS
What happens to Fredo after he stays with Johnny Ola at Lake Tahoe in The Godfather Part II?
Upon their mother’s death and at the urging of their sister Connie, Michael relented toward Fredo and seemingly offered reconciliation.
However, it was only a deception to draw Fredo in to have him murdered on Lake Tahoe.
LAKE TAHOE BOAT TOURS
Lake Tahoe Travel Guide
How do I get to Lake Tahoe?
Wondering about airports in Lake Tahoe? The Reno-Tahoe International Airport (Code: RNO) is located about an hour from North Lake Tahoe and a little over an hour from South Lake Tahoe.
If you’re looking for a larger airport, then the closest one is the Sacramento International Airport (Code: SMF), about two hours from North Lake Tahoe and a little more than two hours from South Lake Tahoe.
Another good option is the Oakland International Airport (Code: OAK), east of San Francisco.
It’s a large airport with plenty of flights, but you can avoid the traffic in San Francisco by not flying into San Francisco International (Code: SFO).
Oakland is about 4 hours east of Tahoe. ➔ Search for Flights to Lake Tahoe now.
If you need to rent a car in California, I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks local companies so you get the best rates. (Read more)
What’s the best time to visit Lake Tahoe?
The best time to visit Lake Tahoe depends on your interests and what you want to do during your visit.
Winter (December to February) is best for winter sports.
If you love skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or other winter activities, December through February is the prime time to visit.
The area experiences heavy snowfall, and the ski resorts are in full swing.
Late winter to early spring (March to April) is best for fewer crowds and milder weather. March and April can be excellent for skiing, as there is still plenty of snow.
The crowds start to thin out as the season winds down. It’s also a good time for those who enjoy a mix of winter and early spring activities.
Spring (May to June) is best for mild weather and outdoor activities. Spring is a beautiful time to visit when the snow begins to melt and the weather warms up.
As the lake thaws, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and water activities.
Late spring (May to June) is generally less crowded than summer.
Summer (June to August) is best for outdoor activities and water sports.
Lake Tahoe in summer is the high tourist season, with warm temperatures and a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is at its warmest, making it ideal for water sports.
Fall in Lake Tahoe (September to November) is best for pleasant weather and fall foliage. Fall is a less crowded time to visit, and the weather remains pleasant.
The fall foliage in the surrounding forests is stunning, making it an excellent time for hiking, biking, and scenic drives.
Late fall is best for avoiding crowds and enjoying early winter activities. November can be an excellent time to visit if you want to avoid the peak winter crowds and enjoy some early winter activities as the ski season begins.
What do I pack for Lake Tahoe boating tours?
Remember that Lake Tahoe is a high-altitude lake so it can be quite cold even in the summer.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions, and always follow local regulations and guidelines for boating, including safety measures and inspection requirements.
- A swimsuit
- Rash guard for warmth (even a wetsuit)
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses and a sun hat
- Flip flops
- Reusable water bottle – pack your Water-To-Go Bottle
- Snacks and drinks for the boat
- A cooler to keep snacks and drinks cold
Best Lake Tahoe Private Boat Tours: FAQs
These best boat tours on Lake Tahoe are a unique and memorable experience but sometimes come with questions if this is the first time you’ve been on one.
Below, I will answer these as best I can.
How much is a boat ride in Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe boat cruise prices vary quite a bit depending on the time and duration of the boating tour. The fees range from $600 to about $1,200 on this list of Lake Tahoe private boat tours.
Can you sleep on your boat in Lake Tahoe?
Some areas may require permits or fees for overnight boat camping or mooring. Check with the relevant agencies or marinas to determine whether licenses or fees are required.
How much is it to rent a boat in Lake Tahoe?
Lake Tahoe boat cruise prices vary quite a bit depending on the time and duration of the boating tour. The fees range from $600 to about $1,200 on this list of Lake Tahoe private boat tours.
Can you rent a boat in Lake Tahoe?
Yes, you can rent a boat in Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe offers several options for boat rentals, allowing visitors to explore the stunning lake and enjoy various water activities. You can find a variety of boats available for rent, including powerboats, sailboats, paddleboards, kayaks, and more. There are many Lake Tahoe sightseeing tours to choose from in Lake Tahoe and the ability to rent a boat.
Can I launch my boat in Lake Tahoe?
Yes. Boats displaying an intact Lake Tahoe inspection seal are permitted to launch at any of the designated regional ramps and marinas. For vessels lacking this seal, it is mandatory to undergo an inspection from the Tahoe Resource Conservation District at an off-site inspection facility. Non-motorized watercraft must adhere to cleanliness standards.
Can you live on a boat in Lake Tahoe?
Yes, you can stay overnight on a boat in Lake Tahoe. But specific rules and protocols must be adhered to.
In California, boating operations on Lake Tahoe are overseen by California State Parks. As per their regulations, you are permitted to anchor your boat overnight at designated mooring buoys or marinas, provided you stay within a maximum of 30 days within a calendar year.
To anchor overnight, securing a permit from California State Parks is mandatory. The duration of your stay determines the permit fee. Constraints concerning vessel dimensions, anchorage sites, and proximity to the shoreline apply.
Can you bring your own boat to Lake Tahoe?
Yes, you can bring your own boat to Lake Tahoe, but there are all sorts of regulations.
Final Thoughts: Private Boat Tours Lake Tahoe
Boating on Lake Tahoe is so much fun; the surroundings are magnificent, and the water is bright blue. Only about four hours from San Francisco and eight hours from Los Angeles, Tahoe is a great destination for a weekend away, especially in summer, (Tahoe in the fall and winter are great times as well) and a great place to unwind.
With plenty of boats for rent in Lake Tahoe, all 11 of these Lake Tahoe boat rentals make me want to head to Lake Tahoe right now for some water and fun.
Read More About California
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California Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?
100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)
💦 Can you drink the water in California?
Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.
🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?
Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)
🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?
For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the Ultimate California Packing List to get all the information you need about packing for a trip to California.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy airfare to California?
For finding cheap California flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
