Take a boat tour from the Californian resort city of South Lake Tahoe with these four top cruise options.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Lake Tahoe is revered for its year-round provision of active pursuits from skiing in the winter to beautiful beaches, best enjoyed in the summer. The glassy, clear lake is surrounded by the lofty peaks of the Sierra Nevada, with easy access from two states: Nevada and California. The latter boasts perhaps the most popular resort, particularly for visitors who want to take a Lake Tahoe cruise. Here are some of the best boat tours available, factoring in duration, health and safety, and previous guest reviews.
South Lake Tahoe Sightseeing Cruise of Emerald Bay
One of the true highlights of any boat tour from South Lake Tahoe is a trip to the sheltered Emerald Bay, a picturesque space fringed with evergreen forest and backdropped by lofty mountains. This two-hour cruise heads straight for the bay, where you might have a chance to spot some of the native, but elusive, wildlife, such as bald eagles and black bears. Soft drinks and coffee are provided, along with snacks, as part of the ticket price, along with a complimentary glass of alcohol for those of age. From $120 per person.
Happy Hour Cruise from South Lake Tahoe
If the idea of the perfect accompaniment to the natural beauty you’ll experience on any Lake Tahoe cruise is a few beers or glasses of wine, then the happy hour cruise is the best way to go. Hop on board the Tahoe Bleu Wave yacht in the late afternoon for two hours of stunning vistas, such as Emerald Bay, with narration from your captain and happy hour specials behind the bar, at an additional cost. Daily cruises available in the summer. From $120 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Lake Tahoe 2-Hour Private Boat Trip with Captain
When you’re traveling with a bigger group of four to six people, it quickly becomes logical (and economical) to ditch the group cruise and strike out on your own with a private charter boat. The Grateful Red is a sleek speedboat with the ability to skim over the surface of Lake Tahoe in search of the tranquility of Emerald Bay, with Fannette Island at its core. All safety equipment is provided, including life jackets. Snorkeling gear is included, too. From $650 per group.
Sunset Wine & Cheese Emerald Bay Boat Charter
Take that private charter one step further with this classy white wine and cheese board-based cruise from South Lake Tahoe. The smaller size of the boat allows you to moor up in a sheltered little cove away from everybody else, giving you the chance to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings. Another stop at D.L. Bliss State Park is a great way to see the sweeping lake shore, lapped by the turquoise lake. Maximum capacity of six guests. From $750 per group.