4-Hour Luxury Powerboat Tour of Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay & Fannette Island
Cut loose from shore aboard a private 25-foot powerboat and spend four hours circling Lake Tahoe’s most photographed inlet. From Tahoe Keys to Emerald Bay and Fannette Island, this skippered charter lets you swim, snorkel and explore iconic shorelines without the crowds.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Intense alpine sun reflects off the water — use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply after swimming.
Motion-sickness prep
Take anti-nausea medication before boarding if you’re prone to seasickness; the boat can be fast in chop.
Secure valuables
Bring a dry bag for phones, wallets and cameras; leave unnecessary valuables locked in your car.
Respect no-anchoring zones
Avoid anchoring near sensitive shorelines around Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm to protect aquatic plants and archaeology.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small ledge beaches off Rubicon Bay reachable by tender
- •Fannette Island’s rocky shoreline and tea house ruins (approach by kayak for a closer look)
Wildlife
- •Bald eagle
- •Western grebe
Conservation Note
Lake Tahoe’s water clarity is fragile; operators follow strict no-discharge and no-anchoring rules in sensitive bays — pack out trash and use reef-safe products.
Vikingsholm, built in 1929, is a notable Scandinavian-style lodge on Emerald Bay and a local landmark tied to early conservation-era recreation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Aerial line along the West Shore approaching Emerald Bay
- • Close-in shots from the boat near Fannette Island
- • Wide-angle from the boat in Rubicon Bay for cliff-to-water vistas
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the lake’s aquatic life from harmful chemicals.
Wind shell or light jacketEssential
Open-bow runs can be chilly even on warm days, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
Swimwear and quick-dry towelEssential
You’ll likely want to swim or snorkel; quick-dry fabrics speed comfort after exiting the water.
Dry bag and polarized sunglasses
Keeps electronics dry and polarizers reduce glare for clearer lake views.
Common Questions
How many people fit on the boat?
The White Lightning holds up to eight guests with a professional captain included.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes — snorkeling equipment is included in the price.
Where does the tour depart?
Tours depart from Tahoe Keys Marina in South Lake Tahoe; check-in details are provided at booking.
Can we swim and anchor at Emerald Bay?
Swimming in protected coves is common, but anchoring is restricted in sensitive areas — follow your captain’s guidance.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wind layer, swimwear, a towel, water, and a dry bag for electronics.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for severe weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
South Lake Tahoe, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate — must be able to board from a low dock/boat ladder and manage short swims or climbs on uneven shore.
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