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
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
Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise
Pickup included
Reviews
607 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Chattanooga Choo Choo1
Terrell R,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We enjoyed the experience! Warmer weather preferably but it was still nice in colder weather. The Paddle Wheels are neat to see operating. The Crew were very Nice!!
Dixie
Leigh N,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful experience!!!! Highly recommended. Would do again. Loved the lake experience plus all the history and facts! Lunch menu was good and reasonable price. Best prices on souvenirs anywhere
Nice Leisurely Ride
David B,Mar 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very nice lustrous boat ride across the lake. It does just go across the lake to emerald bay. So not around the lake
Great experience
Carla D,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. Beautiful weather. Very relaxing. Accommodations for handicap patrons. Kid friendly.
Early spring ride
U2407SDdebb,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful trip. Very informative but not constant talking
Wonderful experience!...
Kristin D,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful experience! Highly recommend. It was relaxing, beautiful, and also informative. They gave good information about the lake and area.
Yacht Rock Cruise
Marty S,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Professional run, and you can't beat the Lake Tahoe beauty. Food and drink service were solid, prices not ridiculous. Recorded guide would kick in at appropriate times, and music was Yacht Rock.
Lake Tahoe Cruise
Ashlee G,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The entire crew was very friendly. The views were spectacular! The food and drinks were delicious. Would definitely go again.
Excellent day trip
John C,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent trip. All staff was nice & professional
Overall It was good...
Yong G,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Overall It was good cruise. Snack corner could be improved. Wait was long but we did not mind waiting.
From US$104.94
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Aramark - S&E - Dixie II