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Lake Tahoe Boat Tour with Tahoe By Design in South Lake Tahoe - South Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe Boat Tour with Tahoe By Design in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

6–8 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness level required; suitable for most ages and abilities

Overview

Discover the stunning scenery of Lake Tahoe aboard the White Lightning with Tahoe By Design. This full-day boat tour offers panoramic views, swimming stops, and a relaxing escape into one of California's most celebrated outdoors terrains. Perfect for an unforgettable outing on the water.

South Lake Tahoe, California

Best of Lake Tahoe Full Day with Captain on the White Lightning

All Ages • 4 Hours • Up to 8 Passengers

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About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe aboard the luxurious 27-foot White Lightning boat. Explore stunning shorelines, historic estates, and crystal-clear waters while enjoying swimming stops and picturesque views. With a licensed captain at the helm, relax and soak in the unforgettable sights of this iconic destination.

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.

About

This tour is for a larger group on the 27-foot luxurious White Lightning over 6 guests there will be a Captains fee of $40 an hour. The open bow in front is idea for sightseeing and sunning. New stereo & speakers, Bimini for shade and built in cooler.

Your Captain will take care of the driving so you can relax and enjoy the day. With 4 hours to explore the Lake, you will see some of the most impressive sights: • 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. • Famous Estates – Wave to Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and get a close look at his 30 million dollar, 10-acre compound. Lakefront mansions dot the shoreline as we continue the tour. • Tahoe City - • Crystal Bay & Incline – Relax and enjoy the afternoon exploring the deepest part of the lake, Crystal Bay and home to the most expensive house on Lake Tahoe – 75 million, and it’s for sale! This house is a must-see from the Lake.
• High Tech Tycoon Homes – The lakefront is home to multi-million-dollar homes of famous Silicon Valley executives. • The Thunderbird Mansion – The Thunderbird Mansion is one of the most interesting estates on the lake with their ‘bat cave’ where the wooden boats are stored.
• East Shore Beaches – The beaches on the east shore are some of the most beautiful and only accessibly by boat, or a steep, difficult hike. Whale Beach, Secret Harbor, Chimney Beach and more. Swimming Stops: This is your day on the lake and swim and relax as long as possible, understand that this may limit time available for other stops. • Famous Estates – Tiger Woods home, The Harrah’s magnate estate, designer Tommy Hilfiger and Silicon Valley executive homes are along the east shore near Glenbrook, NV. • Cave Rock – This is one of the most sacred places for the native Washoe Indian tribe. See the natural cutout of the Indian Princess on the rock formation. • Luxury Resort – Edgewood This is the home of the famed ‘celebrity golf tournament.’ A beautiful property to see up close and personal. • Stateline, NV – The hustle and bustle of Stateline include the casino’s, lakeside beach bars, entertainment, and dining. This is where the action takes place.

Notes: We stop along the route for bathroom breaks.

FAQ

Is it Safe?

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.

Where Do You Pick Up?

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.

What is Included on the Boat Charter?

A USCG Licensed Captain to operate the boat, all fuel, safety gear, lifejackets. We have bottle water on board.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?

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.

What is the parking situation?

During the summer months, parking can be limited, so arrive early to park or take an Uber to the meeting point.

Music – Do you have a sound system on board?

Yes, we have an awesome stereo. You can even blue tooth your device to play your music.

Is there a restroom on board?

The Grateful Red has a private cuddy cabin with a small portable restroom. However, we make stops along the way where there are restrooms available. The White Lightning does not have a portable restroom.

Are pets allowed?

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.

Are we guaranteed to see all the places on the itinerary?

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.

What if I am late for my scheduled tour?

We do not add time to accommodate late arrivals. Plan to be on time to maximize your time on the lake.

Will I get seasick?

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.

What should I bring on board?

• 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.

Adventure Tips

Wear Sun Protection

Bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against UV rays while on the water.

Pack Swimwear and Towel

Be prepared for swimming stops with suitable attire and a towel for comfort and drying off.

Bring Water and Snacks

Stay hydrated and keep your energy up during the full-day adventure with water and light snacks.

Check the Weather

Monitor the forecast beforehand to dress appropriately and plan for changing conditions on the water.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Osprey
  • Mink

History

Lake Tahoe has been a trading and recreation site for thousands of years, with indigenous peoples and early settlers leaving their mark.

Conservation

Tahoe By Design emphasizes sustainable tourism by practicing eco-friendly boating and respecting local wildlife habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in South Lake Tahoe

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sun Protection

Essential

Essential to keep comfortable and protected during sunny days on the water.

summer specific

Swimsuit

Essential

Allows for quick and comfortable swimming during designated stops.

summer specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Layers help stay warm during cooler seasons or in the evening hours.

spring|fall|winter specific

Camera

Perfect for capturing the lake’s stunning vistas and wildlife encounters.