Lake Tahoe’s crystalline cobalt water is best appreciated from the deck of a boat. Getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe, and most of these boat charters depart within a few miles of each other on the south shore.

Book a stay at one of our luxury South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals with lake access, and you’ll be just steps away from the docks. Many of these accommodating homes sit within walking distance of the marinas below, or come with a private dock of their own, so getting out on the water can be as simple as stepping outside.

Here are six of the best boat tours on South Lake Tahoe, plus what it takes to rent a boat and captain the day yourself.

1. Cruise Emerald Bay on the Spirit of Tahoe or Safari Rose

Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani

Tahoe Cruises runs two very different boats out of the same dock. The Spirit of Tahoe makes the standard daytime trip out to Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and Vikingsholm Castle, while the smaller Safari Rose leans into private boat tours, sunset cruises, and special events like wine tasting tours.

Mornings on the Spirit of Tahoe tend to have calmer water and clearer views of the bay and surrounding mountain beauty, so it’s worth trying to book the earliest departure if photos are the priority.

The Safari Rose’s wine tasting cruise runs seasonally, so check current availability before building your itinerary around it.

2. Ride the Lake’s Largest Paddlewheeler, the M.S. Dixie II

Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani

All aboard! The M.S. Dixie II has been a South Shore fixture for decades, and its capacity of 500 passengers makes it highly recommended for big groups or anyone prone to seasickness.

The M.S. Dixie II was built in the image of the late 19th-century steam-powered paddleboat, making every tour feel like an adventure. She remains one of the most unique ways to take in Tahoe’s natural wonder.

Climate-controlled decks make it a solid choice even when the weather doesn’t fully cooperate. The upper open-air deck is the better spot for pictures, while the enclosed lower level is more comfortable if the wind picks up out on the open lake.

Daytime scenic cruises and evening dinner cruises both depart from Zephyr Cove, about 6 miles up Highway 50 from South Lake Tahoe. Arrive at least 30 minutes before boarding, since parking at Zephyr Cove fills up fast on busy weekends.

3. Sail Back in Time on the Rum Runner

Camp Richardson’s Rum Runner has a loyal local following, and the Emerald Bay route is shorter and more relaxed than some of the bigger commercial cruises.

Multiple cruises depart on the Rum Runner daily, and it’s a good pick if you’d rather not drive far, because Camp Richardson sits right along the south shore next to one of South Lake Tahoe’s best beaches.

On the 2.5-hour boat cruise around the bay, you’ll have the chance to sip run rummer cocktails, snap photos, and relax with family and friends while you sail out to one of the lake’s most beautiful inlets. Keep an eye out for otters and osprey along the way.

4. Watch the Sunset from the Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave

Take to the lake in retro style aboard the Bleu Wave. This restored classic yacht has indoor and outdoor seating and a wraparound deck built for taking in the view. The indoor cabin is set with beautiful carved wood interior that makes you feel like boating back in the 1960’s as you cruise along Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters.

The sunset voyage is the most requested reservation, though the crew also specializes in private customized events, brunch cruises, and small weddings. Ask about the holiday fireworks cruise if your visit lines up with celebrating 4th of July on Lake Tahoe.

Because Tahoe Keys Marina sits directly at the south end of the lake, the sunset cruise gets a longer, more direct view of the sun dropping behind the western ridgeline than boats departing further north.

5. Build a Custom Route with Lake Tahoe Boat Rides

Photo Credit: Erika Katz

Rather than a fixed schedule, this outfit builds the experience around your group. Choose your pace; take a slow loop past Emerald Bay, make a stop for swimming, or time a sunset run perfectly before your dinner reservation.

A U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain handles the driving, so everyone on board gets to just sit back and enjoy. It’s worth booking a few weeks out during peak season.

6. Dive into Watersports at Lakeside Marina

Let’s face it, pleasing everyone in the group can be nearly impossible, but Lakeside Marina is a one-stop shop for everything water sports, with an activity or tour for everyone.

The parasailing route climbs high enough to see the full sweep of the Sierra crest behind the town, which is a different angle than anything you’ll get from the water-level cruises above.

Jet skiing is great fun for speedseekers, but there are also kayak, paddleboard, and pedal boat rentals available for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

Rent Your Own Boat and Set the Itinerary Yourself

Photo Credit: Photo Spirit

If steering the boat yourself sounds more appealing than being a passenger, several South Lake Tahoe marinas, namely Tahoe Keys Marina and Lakeside Marina, rent pontoon boats, power boats, and wake boats you can pilot on your own.

Boat rentals and charters book up quickly during Lake Tahoe’s summer season, so it’s worth reserving before your trip rather than waiting until you arrive.

At Action Watersports in Lakeside Marina, you must be 24 years old with a valid driver’s license. At Tahoe Sports in Tahoe Keys Marina, you must be 18 with a valid license. Both operators allow people aged 16 and over to rent jet skis.

Keep in mind that minimum ages are set by individual businesses, not by state law, and can change season to season, so check with providers directly before making reservations.

Lake Tahoe Licenses and Boating Requirements

California now requires a California Boater Card for anyone operating a motorized vessel on state waters, unless they are operating a rented vessel.

That said, individual rental companies still set their own rules on top of the law, so don’t assume a driver’s license alone is enough.

Because Lake Tahoe sits on the California-Nevada state line, the rules shift slightly if you venture onto Nevada waters.

Nevada requires anyone born in 1983 or later to complete a boater education course approved by the Nevada Department of Wildlife before operating a motor over 15 horsepower. Plus, personal watercraft operators must be at least 14.

If your rental route could cross into Nevada, it’s worth asking the marina which side of the line you’ll be on.

Find Your South Lake Tahoe Boat Tour Today

From a paddlewheeler steeped in Tahoe history to a private charter built around your schedule, the hardest part of planning South Lake Tahoe boat tours is picking just one. Book early during the summer months, since the popular cruises and favorite rental slots fill up fast.

When you’re ready to plan the rest of your trip, browse our South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals to find a luxury home near the water. Unlike other Lake Tahoe hotels, our properties put guests steps away from their next boating excursion.

Anchors aweigh! Come experience Lake Tahoe out on the water like it was intended to be.

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