Private 2-Hour Emerald Bay Boat Tour: Vikingsholm, Fannette Island & Rubicon Point
Cut across Lake Tahoe’s clearest water on a private two-hour cruise through Emerald Bay. See Vikingsholm, Fannette Island’s stone tea house, and the sweeping cliffs of Rubicon Point while learning the bay’s natural and cultural history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to the dock
Plan to be at the Rubicon Dock 20 minutes early and look for the blue flag by the right corner of the parking lot to meet your captain.
Layer for wind
Even on warm days the lake breeze can be chilly on the water — pack a windbreaker or fleece.
Protect camera gear
Bring a polarizing filter to manage reflections and secure straps — waves and spray can be sudden.
Practice Leave No Trace
No glass, pack out trash, and avoid feeding wildlife; small actions help protect lake clarity and shoreline habitat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet viewpoints near Rubicon Point reachable by short walks from the dock
- •Submerged boulder fields visible in calm water near the bay’s eastern shore
Wildlife
- •Osprey hunting over the shallows
- •Black bears on distant ridgelines (shoreline sightings are rare)
Conservation Note
Lake Tahoe’s clarity is fragile; watch for invasive species and follow boat inspection rules, pack out waste, and avoid shoreline disturbance to protect native habitat.
Vikingsholm was built in 1929–30 by Lora Knight as a Scandinavian-inspired summer home and remains one of the most prominent historic structures on Lake Tahoe.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat facing Vikingsholm to capture architecture with water foreground
- • Approaching Fannette Island to isolate the stone teahouse against the lake
- • Rubicon Point panorama for full-lake vistas
What to Bring
Windbreaker or light jacketEssential
Spring winds from the Sierra can be sharp — a shell stops the chill on-deck.
Sunglasses with strapEssential
Sun reflects strongly off the water; a strap prevents loss when boating.
Camera or smartphone with polarizer
A polarizing filter cuts glare and enhances underwater visibility in photos.
Sturdy shoesEssential
If you plan to walk to Vikingsholm after the cruise, trails are steep and rocky — closed-toe shoes are safer.
Common Questions
Where do we meet the boat?
Meet at Rubicon Dock; park by the large flagpole, go to the right corner of the lot, proceed past the white shack and look for the blue flag. Arrive 20 minutes early.
Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
Yes — infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, but ensure they have appropriate life jackets and supervision on deck.
Can I go ashore at Vikingsholm or Fannette Island?
The tour passes close to Vikingsholm and Fannette Island; landing policies depend on current park rules. Your captain will advise — Vikingsholm itself is accessible via the public trail and often requires a separate visit.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips are cancellable for bad weather; operators monitor conditions for safety and will notify you per the cancellation policy.
Are food and drinks provided?
Bottled water is included. Other food or beverages are typically not provided — bring snacks if you need them, and avoid glass containers.
Is there restroom access on the boat?
Most private boats for short tours do not have a restroom; plan accordingly before boarding and check with the operator if this is a concern.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
South Lake Tahoe, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can sit for short stretches and manage short dock steps; not strenuous.
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