Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise
Overview
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Embark on a truly unique Lake Tahoe experience! The Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise takes place on the largest cruising vessel in South Lake Tahoe.
This one-of-a-kind paddle wheeler will take you on an unforgettable journey through world-famous Emerald Bay. Learn how the bay was formed, hear tales about Fanette Island, and see the amazing Vikingsholm Castle, the prominent stone mansion on its shores.
Enjoy the breathtaking views from outside or relax with our climate controlled indoor seating. Lunch and full bar service are available for purchase throughout your adventure.
This 2.25-hour scenic daytime cruise offers fabulous photo opportunities, sunshine, and fresh Lake Tahoe air, which has a way of invigorating everyone around.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please plan to arrive at the boat dock to check in 30 minutes prior to your departure
If using our complimentary shuttle service, please plan additional time for pickup and drop off. Please see Meeting & pickup section for specific times from each location.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
To truly experience Lake Tahoe, take a trip aboard the M.S. Dixie II, a paddle-wheel boat that plies the lake’s stunning, cobalt-blue waters.
Fannette Island
Fannette is the only island to be found in all of Lake Tahoe. It is located in beautiful Emerald Bay on the west shore of the lake. A sparsely timbered, brush covered upthrust of granite that rises 150 feet above the water, Fannette Island was not always known by that name. During the past 100 years it has been known as Coquette, Fannette, Baranoff, Dead Man's, Hermit's, and Emerald Isle. Fannette was the name that finally stuck.
What‘s Included
Audio Guide
All Fees and Taxes
Restroom on board
Self Parking ($12)
Pickup points
3 Peaks Resort & Beach Club
931 Park Avenue, South Lake Tahoe United States
Hotel Azure Tahoe
3300 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe United States
Beach Retreat & Lodge At Tahoe
3411 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe United States
Lakeland Village Resort at Heavenly
3535 Lake Tahoe Blvd South Lake Tahoe United States
Harrah's Lake Tahoe
15 Highway 50 Stateline United States
The Landing Lake Tahoe Resort & Spa
4104 Lakeshore Boulevard South Lake Tahoe United States
Station House Inn South Lake Tahoe
901 Park Ave, South Lake Tahoe United States
Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe
50 Hwy 50 Stateline United States
Options
Santa Cruise
Santa Cruise: Bring the whole family for pictures, a special meet and greet with Santa, holiday music, and delicious treats with hot cocoa. Pickup included
Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise
Pickup included
New Year's Eve Cruise
New Year's Eve Cruise: Our New Year's Eve Cruise includes a three-course meal, live music w/dancing, and a special champagne toast! Pickup included
Reviews
645 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Don’t miss this!
Karen B,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Gorgeous Day on the Queen paddle boat. Loved the music and the drinks and food on board. Best way to see Lake Tahoe!
It's beautiful, calming...
Michael D,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It's beautiful, calming and educational. I recommended it to my neighbor. Our family was in from Ohio and the forecast called for rain and it was a good choice.
Well worth the money....
Kevin A,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Well worth the money. Just beautiful sentry. Pictures dont does it justice. Very informative trip and bring sunscreen.
Girls trip!
Lettia L,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00You can not bring your own food aboard. It didn’t state that on the website. The boat was beautiful. We had a great time.
The ride itself was very...
Jacqueline M,May 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The ride itself was very enjoyable however it was very difficult to hear/understand the narration because of all the other passengers constant talking.. perhaps a self guided audio would suit this situation better
Excellent view of Emerald cove and surrounding
Maria V,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Love the experience, the crew was professional and very helpful. Would recommend to anyone exploring Tahoe.
Such a beautiful and...
Sandra L,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a beautiful and peaceful ride on Lake Tahoe.. the emerald bay had water the color of its name..it was crystal clear
A beautiful view of Lake Tahoe
Reva K,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Got a lot of information about Lake Tahoe. The boat was nice and clean and the views of the lake great
Good, but....
Debbie K,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Experience was wonderful, but I would recommend booking straight through Zephyr for this experience , we were told many different things on meetings , spots , and none of them were correct thru Viator.
Bring your coat. It can...
Tonya R,May 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Bring your coat. It can get very cold on the lake. We went the first weekend of May. Staff was very nice.
From US$104.94
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Aramark - S&E - Dixie II