Lake Tahoe Boat Tours | Private Captained Charters

Experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe on a private boat tour designed just for you. Each tour is led by a professional captain who will guide you to some of the most scenic and iconic places on the lake. Along the way, you can learn about the natural features, local landmarks, and unique history that make Lake Tahoe so special. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or take in the views, our private tours are a memorable way to enjoy the lake at your own pace.

Information About Our Tours

Here are the key details for our private Lake Tahoe boat tours—location, charter length, guest capacity, and what to expect on the water.

  • Location: South Lake Tahoe, California

  • Length: Choose between 2 and 6 hours

  • Boat Capacity: Up to 13 people (all passengers count as a person, regardless of age)

  • Tour Type: Private, captained boat tour (your group only)

  • Experience: Sightseeing, relaxing, swimming (when conditions allow), and fully customizable

Locations We Visit

Because every trip is private, your captain can tailor the route to your charter length, your interests, and lake conditions (wind and waves can change quickly). Popular highlights may include:

  • Emerald Bay: The lake’s most famous scenery, including Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island (viewed from the water)

  • Rubicon Point and the West Shore: Beautiful clear water and classic Tahoe shoreline views (often best on longer charters)

  • South Shore Cruise: Scenic shoreline views near South Lake Tahoe for a relaxing ride with great photo opportunities

  • Swim Spot Options: On calm days, your captain may suggest a comfortable spot to swim and float (depending on conditions and time)

If you have “must-see” locations, tell us when you book or ask your captain at the start of your tour.

Pricing (USD)

All prices are listed in USD.

Tour pricing varies depending on the number of people on the boat. There is one price for groups of 6 or fewer passengers and another price for 7 to 13 passengers. For groups of 7 to 13 passengers, the total price is split into two parts: (1) the boat fee due at booking and (2) the captain fee due upon arrival and paid to the captain by cash or Venmo.

Starting Prices (USD) :  Prices vary based on date and time

2 Hours

$$569Due At Booking
  • For groups of 7+ passengers an additional $200 due upon arrival
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3 Hours

$$879Due At Booking
  • For groups of 7+ passengers an additional $200 due upon arrival
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4 Hours

$1139Due At Booking
  • For groups of 7+ passengers an additional $200 due upon arrival
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What’s Included

  • Professional captain to drive the boat
  • Boat fuel
  • Water
  • Safety equipment (including life jackets)

What’s Not Included

  • Gratuity (optional)
  • Food and alcohol (you’re welcome to bring your own)
  • Towels
  • Parking fees (if any)

What To Bring

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • A light jacket (it can get a little cold on the lake)
  • Camera
  • Feel free to bring your own food and drinks
  • If you plan to swim: swimsuit and towel

What Not To Bring

  • Glass
  • Red wine
  • Any pets/animals

Arrival Information

Below is the information you need to arrive and enjoy your day on the lake.

  • Address: 2435 Venice Dr E, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

  • When to arrive: Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Allow time to find parking and use the restroom before departure. Arriving late will shorten your time out on the lake.

  • Meeting location: You will meet your tour directly at the boat. Please use the map and instructions on this page to find the boat.

  • Need help upon arrival: If you have any issues finding the boat, call 530-208-0211

  • Restrooms: Restrooms are available near the marina area before departure.

Meeting Location (How To Find The Boat)

Upon arrival, you will meet directly at the boat. Look for the large American flag, then go to the right corner of the parking lot (to the right of the American flag pole). There will be a white shack—this is the Rubicon Dock. Follow the dock down and look for two blue “Boat Tahoe” flags part way down the dock.

Tahoe Key Marina Map - Boat Tahoe - 2022

How To Book

All tours can be booked online at www.boat-tahoe.com/book-now. The lowest priced tours are the “Standard Charters,” where we assign the boat for you.

Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

  • 10+ days before your charter: Cancel for a full refund.

  • Within 10 days: Refunds are not available unless your charter is cancelled due to weather (weather cancellations are determined by Boat Tahoe).

  • Travel Insurance Option (available within 10 days): You can add travel insurance for an additional 10% of your charter cost. With travel insurance, you may cancel up to 24 hours before your charter for a full refund (minus the travel insurance cost).

FAQ

Is this a private tour or a shared tour?
This is a private tour. It’s your group + your captain.

Do your tours include a captain?
Yes. Every tour is captained.

How many people can come?
Up to 13 total passengers (all ages count as a person).

Are prices per person or per boat?
Prices are per boat (private charter), and all prices are listed in USD.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes—feel free to bring your own food and drinks.

Where do we meet?
You’ll meet at the boat at 2435 Venice Dr E, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (Rubicon Dock).

How early should we arrive?
Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time.

Can we choose where we go?
Yes. Because it’s private, your captain can tailor the route based on your charter length, your preferences, and lake conditions.

Can we swim during the tour?
Often yes when conditions allow. Your captain will advise based on wind, waves, and your charter length.

Do you visit Emerald Bay?
Emerald Bay is the most popular destination and is often included when your charter length and conditions allow. If Emerald Bay is a must-see, let us know when you book or tell your captain at the start of your tour.