Booking choice: The Dixie II Emerald Bay cruise, from $116 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
The M.S. Dixie II daytime scenic cruise is sold by the operator, Zephyr Cove Resort, and through resellers such as Viator. The boat, the 2.25-hour route into Emerald Bay and the free hotel shuttle are the same whichever way you book.
The prices below are the operator's published 2026 fares and the live Viator from-price. They move with the season, so the checkout price is the one that counts.
The quick answer
The operator lists the 2026 Emerald Bay cruise at $99 for adults (12 and over), $55 for children 3 to 11 and free for under-3s. Viator sells it from $116 per adult with a full refund up to 24 hours before; the operator asks for 48 hours. Food, drinks and parking (about $12) are extra either way.
How much is the Dixie II Emerald Bay cruise in 2026?
Direct from the operator it is $99 per adult, $55 per child aged 3 to 11 and free for under-3s; on Viator it is from $116 per adult.
The same operator runs other sailings on the Dixie II and a smaller boat, so it helps to compare them side by side.
| Cruise | Direct (adult) | On Viator | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Bay daytime scenic cruise | $99 | $116 | 2.25 hours |
| Sunset dinner cruise | $150 ($170 window table) | $170 | Evening |
| Sunset wine tasting (Tahoe Paradise) | n/a | $127 | 2.5 hours |
Have a date in mind? The Viator ticket includes the free hotel shuttle and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Check dates for the Dixie II Emerald Bay cruiseWhat does the ticket include?
The 2.25-hour narrated cruise from Zephyr Cove into Emerald Bay and back, indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, and the free shuttle from select hotels.
The narration covers how Emerald Bay was formed, Fannette Island and Vikingsholm. Inside, the lounges are enclosed and heated; the top deck is open. Taxes and fees are included in the Viator price.
What costs extra?
Food, drinks, parking at Zephyr Cove and souvenir photos.
There is a snack bar and a full bar on board. Guests describe the food as good value and the drinks as pricey, and one booking site says the bar takes cards only. Viator lists self-parking at $12; the free shuttle avoids it. A photographer on board sells souvenir photos.
Is it cheaper to book direct or on Viator?
Direct is cheaper by about $17 per adult; Viator is more flexible.
Booked with the operator, you need 48 hours' notice to cancel. On Viator you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before, pay in one checkout with other Lake Tahoe tours, and read hundreds of guest reviews first. If your plans are fixed, book direct and save; if the weather or your itinerary might change, the extra buys flexibility.
Want the flexible option? Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and the same shuttle and boat.
Explore the Dixie II Emerald Bay cruiseWhat times does the Dixie II sail?
In summer there are several daytime sailings a day; after Labor Day guests report one daytime sailing a day.
The operator publishes departures on a live calendar rather than a fixed timetable, so check the time on your chosen date before you plan around it. The cruise runs year-round, weather permitting, thanks to its enclosed decks. Check in at the boat dock 30 minutes before sailing.
How long does the whole trip take?
The cruise is 2.25 hours; with check-in it is closer to 3, and the shuttle adds up to 80 minutes before sailing.
Guests report about an hour to cross the lake, roughly half an hour in Emerald Bay and an hour back. Shuttle pickups run 45 to 80 minutes before departure depending on the hotel. See parking and the free shuttle.
Do children pay, and is there an age limit?
Children 3 to 11 pay $55 direct, under-3s ride free, and there is no minimum age.
On Viator, adults are 12 and over and children 3 to 11 have their own price band. Strollers and infant seats are fine. The wine tasting cruise is the exception: it is for adults 21 and over.
Is the ticket good value?
For couples and families, yes: it is the cheapest way to see Emerald Bay from the water. For a full group of six, a private boat costs less per head.
The two private boats listed here cost $642 and $680 for up to six people and leave from Tahoe Keys, close to the bay. Compare every option in Emerald Bay boat tours compared.
Ready to pick a date? The cruise, the narration and the shuttle are in one ticket.
Check dates for the Dixie II Emerald Bay cruiseFrequently asked questions
Do I need to print my Dixie II ticket?
No. The Viator voucher works on your phone; check in at the boat dock at Zephyr Cove 30 minutes before sailing.
Can I book the Dixie II by phone?
Yes: Zephyr Cove Resort sells tickets online and by phone. Summer sailings and the shuttle fill up, so booking ahead is the safer choice.
Can I cancel my Dixie II ticket?
On Viator you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before. Booked direct, the operator asks for at least 48 hours' notice.
Is there a senior discount?
The operator's published fares are adult, child and under-3; ask Zephyr Cove Resort directly about any other discounts.
Ready to book
Choose your cruise
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
M.S. Dixie II Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise
- 2.25-hour narrated cruise to Emerald Bay and back
- Indoor heated seating and an open-air top deck
- Free shuttle from select South Lake Tahoe and Stateline hotels
M.S. Dixie II Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Evening cruise on the M.S. Dixie II with narration
- Dinner with a choice of entree; soda, coffee and tea
- Live music; free shuttle from select hotels
Lake Tahoe 2-Hour Sailing Cruise
- 2-hour public sailing cruise, small group
- Local beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks
- Restroom on board
