Thursday, May 25, 2017 / by Amie Quirarte
Boating Lake Tahoe: What You Need To Know
Know before you go, and make the most of your time on Lake Tahoe.
After our historic winter, Lake Tahoe's water level is over its natural rim, and boating season is in full effect. There really is no better way to appreciate the grandness of Lake Tahoe than to be out on the water. If you are not planning to bring a boat with you, we can help you rent one. If you are bringing a boat, be sure to read through the information below, so that you spend less time waiting and more time boating.
All boats must be inspected prior to entering Lake Tahoe.
Due to invasive species that can impact our waters, mandatory boat inspections are required for all watercraft entering Lake Tahoe. Clean, Drain, and Dry your watercraft. Drain your bilge, ballast tanks, live wells, sea strainer and any storage compartments. Dispose of any plants or critters away from lakes or rivers – and above the high water line. If you have an outboard or sterndrive engine, lower the outdrive on the engine to release any residual water. Inspections only occur during daylight hours and take only a few minutes if you arrive prepared. If you flush your engine at home and have special flushing adapters please bring those with you. Find inspection locations, hours, and fees here.
Both public and private launch sites exist. Check hours, locations, and launch fees here.
Please be aware that Tahoe Luxury Properties does not provide dinghies, so you will need to be prepared with your own water transport to the buoy.
Follow these instructions to save time, and have fun out there!
Locals' Tip: Our friends at the Homewood High and Dry Marina currently have available buoys as well as dry rack storage space with both short-term and long-term options. The marina is located on the west shore across from Homewood Mountain Resort, next to the West Shore Cafe, so you can fuel up while you enjoy boat-up dining.