easy
2 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable onboard seating and guided narration make for a relaxing experience.
Join Tahoe By Design on a two-hour luxury boat tour around Lake Tahoe’s emerald waters. Discover hidden coves, historic sites, and sweeping panoramas aboard the ‘White Lightning’ with a licensed captain guiding your way. Perfect for a quick, unforgettable adventure on California’s jewel of a lake.
All Ages • 2 Hours • Up to 8 Passengers
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe on a luxury boat tour aboard the "White Lightning." Explore stunning shorelines, historic estates, and crystal-clear waters while enjoying stops at iconic sites like Emerald Bay and Sugar Pine State Park. Relax with friends as a licensed captain navigates this unforgettable adventure.
The best way to experience the joy and beauty of Lake Tahoe is on a luxury boat, exploring the miles of shoreline, famous mansions, nature, waterfalls, beaches, and quaint lakefront towns. This half day trip captures the highlights of Lake Tahoe. Up to 8 guests onboard the “White Lightning” cruising the lake, with stops at the most famous sites. Your Captain will take care of the driving so you can relax and enjoy the day. With three hours to explore the Lake, we will focus on the highlights:
• Tallac Historical Site - We will pass by the original estates of the Lake Tahoe wealthy. The Valhalla Estate, Pope Estate and Baldwin Estate and their original boat houses are a must-see.
• Emerald Bay – This cove on the south shore is the location of the famous Vikingsholm mansion, and it has the only island on the lake, Fanette Island.
• DL Bliss – This state park has some of the tallest peaks, and deep waters on the lake. Watch brave souls jump off rooster rock into the cold, deep blue water.
• Rubicon Bay – The crystal-clear water will remind you of the Caribbean. Luxury mansions dot the shoreline, and we drop anchor to swim and take it the views.
• Sugar Pine State Park and the Ehrman Mansion – Sugar Pine Park is known for its sandy beaches, clear water, spacious lawn and dock and the famous historic mansion, the Ehrman Estate.
• Godfather 2 Estate – You will see the original estate where the Godfather 2 was filmed and relive some of the festive parties and the betrayals and drama. Drive by, we are not able to stop.
Boating on Lake Tahoe is the most enjoyable way to see the best of the lake and we provide a licensed USCG Captain to ensure the safety of our guests.
Our meeting point is in South Lake Tahoe, and we will coordinate a convenient location to where you are staying. If you would like to depart from the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, it is an additional $200 to cover travel time and fuel.
A USCG Licensed Captain to operate the boat, all fuel, safety gear, lifejackets. We have bottle water on board.
Yes, absolutely bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on board. The one exception is no red wine due to the interior of the boats. Bring your own ice if desired and cooler.
During the summer months, parking can be limited, so arrive early to park or take an Uber to the meeting point.
Yes, we have an awesome stereo. You can even blue tooth your device to play your music.
There is not a restroom onboard however, we make stops along the way where there are restrooms available. The White Lightning does not have a portable restroom.
Call to discuss. Most dogs do not enjoy boating on the lake, however we love dogs and can accommodate it they have the temperament and life jacket.
Our float plan is to see all the sites listed on the tour. However, due to weather, lake conditions and timing, the Captain reserves the right to adjust.
We do not add time to accommodate late arrivals. Plan to be on time to maximize your time on the lake.
This is very rare. It is not the ocean, but the lake can get choppy on windy days. If you tend to get seasick, we recommend taking something in advance to assist.
• Jacket • Towels • Sunscreen • Hat • Sunglasses • Swimsuit if you intend on swimming. • Camera/phone • Snacks • Drinks – we only provide water. • Ice – if desired – We have a cooler on board.
Policies: Children 12 and under are required by USCG to wear life jackets. We will provide these.
The vivid scenery and wildlife provide perfect photo opportunities throughout the tour.
Layers are recommended for changing temperatures on the boat’s deck and during stops.
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat or sunglasses to stay protected from sun exposure on open water.
Ensure enough time for boarding and to enjoy the scenic views before departure.
Emerald Bay was designated a California State Park in 1956, protecting its natural and historic features for public enjoyment.
The tour adheres to local environmental guidelines to minimize impact, supporting the preservation of Lake Tahoe’s pristine waters.
Protects your skin from UV rays during sunny excursions on open water.
summer specific
Helps shield your face and eyes from sun glare, especially on the water.
spring|summer specific
Provides warmth during cooler mornings or breezy afternoons.
spring|fall|winter specific
Capture the stunning vistas and memorable moments along the lake.