Tahoe Gal Cruises
Tahoe Gal Cruises
4.1
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About
Join the fun and romance of a Lake Tahoe Cruise aboard the Tahoe Gal. Departing from Tahoe City, we offer daily sightseeing cruises and specialty cruises on the beautiful waters of Lake Tahoe. The Tahoe Gal is an iconic 120 passenger paddle wheeler located in Lake Tahoe, California. The Tahoe Gal departs daily from Tahoe City, cruising to Emerald Bay and along the North and West Shores of Lake Tahoe. With our galley and full bar, we offer the perfect venue for exclusive charters and special celebrations. The Tahoe Gal offers a memorable Lake Tahoe Cruise experience. See Lake Tahoe in a whole new way during your Lake Tahoe boat tour on the Tahoe Gal!
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.1
349 reviews
Excellent
178
Very good
97
Average
33
Poor
18
Terrible
23
Joseph Rudelle
120 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We took the 3.5 hour lunch cruise to Emerald Bay. Water is provided for no charge. The food is a little pricey but it is a tourist area. We had the loaded nachos for $22 and drank water. Gratuity is automatically added to your food order so ours came to around $31 dollars.
The boat ride was great, it was nice to finally get out on the water instead of looking at it. Some reviews mentioned the P.A system not working. It worked great for our cruise. Interesting points were highlighted as we passed them, music played the rest of the time. On the way back from Emerald Bay just music was played because we just returned the same route.
The boat ride was great, it was nice to finally get out on the water instead of looking at it. Some reviews mentioned the P.A system not working. It worked great for our cruise. Interesting points were highlighted as we passed them, music played the rest of the time. On the way back from Emerald Bay just music was played because we just returned the same route.
Written May 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tammie S
Louisville, TN39 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
We so enjoyed our 3.5 hour lunch cruise on the Tahoe Gal. On June 6, the boat was at about half capacity, so we had plenty of room to move about. We even secured a table along the rail of the top deck so were able to enjoy the beautiful views and amazing weather. Since we had just eaten lunch right before boarding, we did not order any of the lunch choices, but did order a couple of beverages. The crew were all very knowledgeable and friendly. This was the highlight of our week as first time Tahoe visitors and would absolutely recommend that you book the Tahoe Gal!
Written June 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim W
Pleasant Hill, CA15 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Overall good experience.
A perfect cruise for those visitors who are visiting the Lake for the first time, OR anyone who has never been on the Lake.
Being on the water provides the visitor with an entirely different perspective!!
Food/Drink service was above average although the food menu was somewhat limited for a lunch cruise.
We appreciated the Captain's narrative on the history of the Lake and calling our attention to notable sights ashore.
A drawback is the attempt to play recorded music, which in our opinion, is a unnecessary distraction.
A perfect cruise for those visitors who are visiting the Lake for the first time, OR anyone who has never been on the Lake.
Being on the water provides the visitor with an entirely different perspective!!
Food/Drink service was above average although the food menu was somewhat limited for a lunch cruise.
We appreciated the Captain's narrative on the history of the Lake and calling our attention to notable sights ashore.
A drawback is the attempt to play recorded music, which in our opinion, is a unnecessary distraction.
Written August 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Escape478907
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Family
Everything about this Happy Hour Cruise was terrific until after I later reviewed the bar receipt sent via text. I did not realize that I had been charged a 20% gratuity, so I also added a gratuity. When I called later and spoke with the owner, I was told that the server should have stated this and that he had no way to view the transaction to refund the additional amount paid.
The server did not make me aware of the auto gratuity charge. I finally found it stated at the bottom of the lunch menu on their website, which would not have been seen when ordering from the drink menu. It's not about the money at this point - it's the lack of customer service by the owner that has now tainted my happy memories of a fun afternoon cruise.
The server did not make me aware of the auto gratuity charge. I finally found it stated at the bottom of the lunch menu on their website, which would not have been seen when ordering from the drink menu. It's not about the money at this point - it's the lack of customer service by the owner that has now tainted my happy memories of a fun afternoon cruise.
Written August 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brenda T
6 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
I’ve done this trip before and really enjoyed hearing about all the history of the lake and its early life. Unfortunately, we got none of that on this trip. The captain pointed out a few sights along the way, but even though we had over. 3 hours to listen and learn, he didn’t give any details or stories. It was simply a 3.5 hour boat ride down the middle of the lake. We were only able to get closer to shore once, as we approached Emerald Bay, so we couldn’t even see the gorgeous homes along the lake. It happened to be a very windy day, so much so, you had to duck behind the cabin , hold onto your hat, hold onto the food to keep it from being blown off the table. For me, it was a disappointment. But the lake is always beautiful, and we did get to see it from a different perspective.
Written July 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David
Claremont, CA14 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
Unfortunately it was unpleasant. Very windy, so much so that chairs and tables were blowing over on the top deck. We had to go inside where the speakers were poor and it was hard to hear.
They should have canceled it.
Sandwich was good but overpriced.
Commentary, when it could be heard, was ok, but unenthusiastic.
For a little more than $92 to ou can get a day on a ship with three meals and a bed. 😀
Did it 10 years ago, will wait at least another 10 years.
They should have canceled it.
Sandwich was good but overpriced.
Commentary, when it could be heard, was ok, but unenthusiastic.
For a little more than $92 to ou can get a day on a ship with three meals and a bed. 😀
Did it 10 years ago, will wait at least another 10 years.
Written September 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leah A
2 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Really fun cruise! I enjoyed the ambience and the service. The attendants were very nice and it was fun that they served food on board.
I was semi-expecting an historical aspect to the tour—it would’ve been fun to learn about some of the landmarks on the lake, but it was still a great time, very relaxing and fun!
I was semi-expecting an historical aspect to the tour—it would’ve been fun to learn about some of the landmarks on the lake, but it was still a great time, very relaxing and fun!
Written August 17, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
schneisa
Arlington, TX51 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
Great cruise …. The crew was extremely friendly and helpful ,… the views and history were wonderful…… Our cruise wasn’t crowded at all …. Gave us the opportunity to sit on the lower or upper deck…..We did the lunch cruise and didn’t plan on eating but eventually got hungry … tried to order just to be told the kitchen closed at 230p ( it was 234p ) …. She asked the kitchen and they said they could only do a teriyaki chicken sandwich….it was horrible and expensive
That is my only complaint( and it’s a small one ) they should announce what time the kitchen closes.
Overall it was a great cruise
That is my only complaint( and it’s a small one ) they should announce what time the kitchen closes.
Overall it was a great cruise
Written May 22, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jim J
Napa, CA35 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
This is a great cruise along the north and west shores of Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay. The Captain was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and informative.
The boat staff, in particular Zoe and Claire, were friendly, attentive, responsive to our requests and a pleasure to meet. This is a worthy excursion. Relaxing, beautiful and comfortable. A MUST DO while visiting Tahoe North Shore.
The boat staff, in particular Zoe and Claire, were friendly, attentive, responsive to our requests and a pleasure to meet. This is a worthy excursion. Relaxing, beautiful and comfortable. A MUST DO while visiting Tahoe North Shore.
Written June 7, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mary J
1 contribution
Sep 2024 • Friends
We two did the sunset dinner cruise and it was excellent. Room to sit or walk around upstairs outside the dining room. The drink orders prior to the meal were served quickly and we were told the meal would arrive in about 45 minutes- time for sight seeing outside! The salad, salmon, and appetizers were delicious! The bar was busy and efficient. A duo sang and played guitar - they were very good! The bathroom was clean and larger than expected. We highly recommend!
Written October 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
They have food and drinks for purchase.
Written August 24, 2019
on this cruise to emerald bay are we able to disembark at the castle?
Written June 30, 2019
No. It is an out and back voyage. Three hours on the vessel. It is not that far of a drive to Emerald Bay. The hike down to Vikingsholm is only one mile. About 20-25 minutes to get there. The hike up can be strenuous, but not if you take your time. Also, you can explore Eagle Falls while atop the Emerald Point scenic view parking area. There is public transportation that takes you to Emerald Bay State Park if you choose not to drive.
Written June 30, 2019
Can the Tahoe Gal be reserved for a private party?
Written January 17, 2019
Yes I believe so. When we were on the boat a wedding party had reserved the upper deck private room.
Written January 18, 2019
Any vegan options for the Happy Hour cruise?
Written June 19, 2018
You can look online at the menu or you can call them and ask if they have Vegan Options. We did not go during the Happy Hour.
Written June 21, 2018
I see that the lower deck is wheelchair accessible, is it easy to get from the parking area to the boat?
Written June 24, 2017
You can access a Class I walking and bike path from the Tahoe Gal parking lot that takes you directly down to the pier. (There is a steep bumpy path from the Lighthouse Center that we do not recommend) If you need assistance with the wheelchair on the path, please call the Tahoe Gal office at 530-583-0141. We are more than happy to have someone available to assist you. Thank you.
Written June 24, 2017
Has anyone done the Tahoe Gal cruise with someone in a wheelchair? I see that the lower deck is accessible, but how about from the parking area to the boat?
Written June 24, 2017
You can access a Class I walking and bike path from the Tahoe Gal parking lot that takes you directly down to the pier. If you need assistance with the wheelchair on the path, please call the Tahoe Gal office at 530-583-0141. We are more than happy to have someone available to assist you. Thank you.
Written June 24, 2017
The Tahoe Gal operates May through October. Our hours vary from early season, high season and late season. Please visit our website for a detailed schedule and pricing. We are also available by phone to assist you.
Written June 24, 2017
Meridel S
Elk Grove, California
How do I make reservations for a group of seniors?
What are the times of your tours?
Written June 22, 2015
Reservations may be made online or by calling us at 530-583-0141. Our tour times vary from early season, high season to late season. Please visit our website for more detailed information. Thank you for your interest in the Tahoe Gal.
Written June 24, 2017
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