Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

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‘s Included

Audio Guide

All Fees and Taxes

Restroom on board

Self Parking ($12)

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

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.

2 hours • Admission Included

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.

Admission Not Applicable

Options

Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise

Pickup included

Reviews

4.59

502 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

387

Great over all.
Marie C,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00
It is a cool experience. Food was awesome and the staff very kind. We got to see many things we’ve never seen before.
Beautiful day with...
Jim D,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Beautiful day with extraordinary views of the lake and surrounding mountains. We enjoyed the narrated history of emerald bay.
Nice Boat ride
Rodric M,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00
It was super easy to book our trip on the boat and everything was on time. I learned a lot about the lake. Negative was that I couldn't hear the speaker because of the crowd noise.. Over all nice experience.
A Fantastic Lake Tahoe Experience.... Worth the Cost!
Millicent M,
Sep 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Everything was fantastic! Staff was very pleasant and accommodating! Due to the altitude of Lake Tahoe, and other health issues, my friend was having problems getting down the ramp to the boat, but the staff got us a wheelchair and assisted us!! They were very accommodating and it wasn't a problem for them at all! Food and drinks were good... Great views and lots of history about the area! NO problems whatsoever!! Everyone gets a "GOLD STAR"!!!!
Wonderful
Susan G,
Sep 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Great views. Smooth ride. You can bring your own water and snacks. Jacket needed when in the shade. Live long too buy refreshments.