M.S. Dixie II

The Basics

The 500-passengerM.S. Dixie II is South Lake Tahoe’s largest cruising vessel. Passengers can choose between daytime or sunset dinner cruises, each lasting about 2 hours. Daytime cruisers learn about the underwater world of Lake Tahoe during a “Sunken Treasures of Lake Tahoe” video presentation, while dinner cruisers enjoy live music, dancing, a sit-down dinner, and views of the sunset over the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Things to Know Before You Go

• AM.S. Dixie II cruise is a must for families and couples.

• Passengers must check in 30 minutes before departure.

• Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat on daytime cruises.

• Dress in layers, as it can get chilly on the lake.

• Food and beverages are available for purchase on all sailings.

• While the boat is wheelchair accessible, there are no elevators to the second deck.

How to Get There

TheM.S. Dixie II departs from Zephyr Cove Resort Marina, 20 minutes northeast from South Lake Tahoe. Zephyr Cove offers complimentary shuttle pickup and drop-off service to select areas of Lake Tahoe. The closest airport is Reno-Lake Tahoe International Airport, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) away.

When to Get There

Passengers can cruise aboard theM.S. Dixie II throughout the year. Due to shorter daylight hours, dinner cruises depart after sunset during the winter season. Additional departures are available during the summer.

Other Activities at Zephyr Cove Marina

The Zephyr Cove Marina itself is also worth checking out before or after a cruise. Experience the thrill of parasailing; polish up on your wakeboarding or water skiing skills; relax on a mile-long sandy beach; or rent a boat, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or WaveRunner for your own lake adventure.

Ways to explore

Book a cruise on the M.S. Dixie II to explore Lake Tahoe, choosing between trips that depart during the day or in the early evening. Daytime cruises take in notable shoreline landmarks including Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle, with the option to purchase lunch or drinks on board. Dinner cruises are timed to catch sunset views of the spectacular Sierra Nevada mountains, and generally include live music, a buffet meal with salad and dessert stations, and convivial seating at 6-person tables.

Accessibility

The first floor of the boat is wheelchair accessible, and there’s an accessible restroom, but the second floor deck and roof are not accessible.

Age limits

None—admission is reduced or free for children of different age groups.

What to pack

Phone, binoculars

What to wear

Bring layered clothing, as temperatures on the lake are often much cooler than those on land.

Not allowed

Smoking, pets

Amenities

Tour narration, restrooms

Address 

The M.S. Dixie II departs from Zephyr Cove near South Lake Tahoe. The closest airport is Reno-Lake Tahoe International Airport, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) away.

Driving

To reach the departure point by car from South Lake Tahoe, follow Highway 50 north along the lakeshore. Turn left into Zephyr Cove Resort, where you can park for free (limited spaces are available).

Public transportation

Shuttle service from a variety of locations around Lake Tahoe is included with the ticket price—the free shuttle is an option when booking online.

Best times to visit

Travelers must check in 30 minutes before the departure time to receive their boarding passes.

Best days to visit

Prices tend to vary throughout the week—check weekday rates for potentially lower prices.

Best months to visit

M.S. Dixie II cruises depart year-round, but the shoreline views are especially beautiful in late September through October, when fall foliage brightens the forest.

Special events

Each year to celebrate Halloween, the M.S. Dixie II hosts an all-ages costumed cruise with dining and dancing.