Awestruck upon seeing Lake Tahoe for the first time in 1861, Mark Twain uttered, "It must surely be the fairest picture the whole world affords." You'll agree with Twain as you set sail on the 151-foot M.S. Dixie paddlewheeler from historic Zephyr Cove to Emerald Bay, one of the most beautiful and iconic spots on Lake Tahoe.

Surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, crystal clear water and fresh mountain air, during the cruise you'll learn about the geological and cultural history of Lake Tahoe including tales of Mark Twain who spent time at Lake Tahoe and Nevada. Twain was a master riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River before heading west where he landed in the silver mining town of Virginia City, Nevada and launched his career as a writer at the Territorial Enterprise. Twain loved paddlewheelers, and his penname "Mark Twain" was chosen after a nautical term used for measuring the safe depth of water, or two fathoms (12 feet).

From the deck of the M.S. Dixie II you'll see osprey nests as you enter the mouth of Emerald Bay, and you'll probably spot the osprey and bald eagles soaring above Fannette Island and  Vikingsholm Castle which is now a museum. Emerald Bay is a State Park, with lots of hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.  

The 400-passenger, award-winning M.S. Dixie II is the largest cruising vessel on Lake Tahoe, and a local favorite. Considered one of Tahoe’s most entertaining and affordable water activities, the M.S. Dixie II has been voted "Best Cruise in Nevada" by Nevada Magazine. The sightseeing and photo opportunities from the M.S. Dixie are amazing, a must for anyone who wants to enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe!

M.S. Dixie offers three cruises a day year-round; a Daytime Scenic Cruise and the enchanting Sunset Dinner Dance Cruise, which includes live entertainment and delicious dinners. All cruises depart directly from historic Zephyr Cove Resort and sail to Emerald Bay and back. The cruise takes about 2 hours with narration for about 50% of the trip. The rest of the time is left to you to create your own picture-perfect memories, just like Twain

Parking is available at Zephyr Cove Resort. There is an $8 fee during the summer.

Dogs are permitted in The Cabins At Zephyr Cove Resort and on a leash in the grounds.