Overview
Available languages
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.
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.
Options
Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise
Pickup included
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
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
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
721 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Breath taking and majestic
Gayla M,Jun 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful scenery of South Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay. Was a gorgeous day! Well organized operation and full of information.
It was great after I was...
Christina J,Jun 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00It was great after I was able to find the bus charter location. Make note to have a person or directions to the bus departure location among the streets to follow for us tourists I missed my first booking because of poor communication with operator and automatic system through customer support and hotel staff at Harrah’s and Caesar republic
Great experience!
heidi m,Jun 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Overall great experience, but don’t be us and forget your sunscreen. You can get some on the boat but you will be paying double for it. Although it’s a great option if you’re forgetful like us. Enjoyed both the history and the boat ride.
Well worth the price.
benmX3949ZN,Jun 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was great. They kept to schedule which was nice. Easy boarding and off loading. The boat was clean and well maintained. Crew was very helpful and the on board dining was good. Views were spectacular and the overall experience was great.
Experienced the Emerald Bay from a different perspective.
TinaandVinnieO621,Jun 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We've always loved seeing Emerald Bay from the road and shore, and having visited Lake Tahoe before, this cruise gave us a different perspective. It was wonderful listening to the audio facts about the Lake's history. The gift shop was filled with fun schwag and we couldn't resist getting our photo from Hannah Ms Photogenic. The nachos were very tasty and the entire staff was fun.
The crew was wonderful,...
John S,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The crew was wonderful, the trip was perfect. The pickup point and driver was amazing. Where I was staying at Wyndham South Shore did no show up on your drop down when I was booking.
Something everyone should experience at least once
Thomas H,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Pros: nice crew, inside/outside seating is all good, beautiful surroundings, and plenty of bathrooms Cons: $12 unannounced-limited parking, boat shows a little wear and tear, gift shop is small and expensive, and it is cool no matter when you travel
Beautiful way to see Lake...
AnnMarie G,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful way to see Lake Tahoe! The narration revealed the history of the area - highlighting Emerald Bay.
Nice cruising speed for...
Dolores H,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nice cruising speed for someone with motion sickness. Spectacular views, friendly crew. Worth taking
Take a ride
Mike F,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great 2 hour trip across Lake Tahoe. Weather was pleasant and lake was calm. Decent amount of info on lake and history of area.
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