MS Dixie II
Cruise Lake Tahoe aboard the historic MS Dixie II, offering scenic tours to Emerald Bay and unforgettable sunset dinner experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical sunsets
MS Dixie II
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cruise Lake Tahoe aboard the historic MS Dixie II, offering scenic tours to Emerald Bay and unforgettable sunset dinner experiences.
"The sights are unmatched and easily worth the price of admission, and will do again."
🎯 Book Dinner Cruise Early
Dinner cruises, especially sunset ones, sell out quickly. Book your MS Dixie II tickets well in advance!
🚗 Parking & Shuttle Info
Parking at Zephyr Cove can be pricey. Consider arriving early or exploring alternative transport options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Bay Views
Lake Tahoe
Witness the iconic Emerald Bay from the water, a truly breathtaking sight. The MS Dixie II offers unparalleled perspectives of this natural wonder.
Sunset Dinner Cruise
Lake Tahoe
Experience a magical sunset over Lake Tahoe while enjoying dinner and live music. A romantic and memorable evening for couples and families.
Daytime Scenic Cruise
Lake Tahoe
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and stunning Sierra Nevada scenery on a leisurely daytime cruise. Perfect for families and sightseeing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Parking and Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dinner Cruise Early
Dinner cruises, especially sunset ones, sell out quickly. Book your MS Dixie II tickets well in advance!
🚗 Parking & Shuttle Info
Parking at Zephyr Cove can be pricey. Consider arriving early or exploring alternative transport options.
📸 Charge Your Phone!
You'll want to capture endless photos of the stunning Lake Tahoe scenery. Don't miss out!
💰 Tip Your Service Staff
The crew works hard to serve many guests. Bringing cash for tips is appreciated by the attentive staff.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dinner Cruise Early
Dinner cruises, especially sunset ones, sell out quickly. Book your MS Dixie II tickets well in advance!
🚗 Parking & Shuttle Info
Parking at Zephyr Cove can be pricey. Consider arriving early or exploring alternative transport options.
📸 Charge Your Phone!
You'll want to capture endless photos of the stunning Lake Tahoe scenery. Don't miss out!
💰 Tip Your Service Staff
The crew works hard to serve many guests. Bringing cash for tips is appreciated by the attentive staff.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Lake Tahoe weather can change quickly. Even on sunny days, it can get chilly on the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The MS Dixie II offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay, with many praising the magical sunsets and historical commentary. While the dinner cruise provides a romantic atmosphere, the food quality receives mixed reviews, and drinks can be expensive. Service is generally commended, making it a memorable experience despite some dining drawbacks.
"So the dinner cruise is awesome. The sunset on the return was magical. Seeing emerald bay was fantastic and the history lesson was unmatched. The food was sub par at best, specifically, the prime rib, bland and under cooked by 1 level, however, the staff and service was great. Especially, when you consider how many people are being served. Bring some cash for tip, service easy deserves it. Be surety line up at 5:20 or so on the pier in front of "The Landing" resort, pay the 12 bucks for parking at the pier/beach. The bus.....well, it's like an old school bus from the late 70's or early 80's, it has no air conditioning or heat. Frankly, we did not take it and are glad we drove to the dock, people were complaining about the bus. All in all great cruise, sights are unmatched and easily worth the price of admission, and will do again. Charge your phone lots of pictures. Sight pictures they take of you on the dock are $45, and are worth the memory."
e Thack
"The MS Dixie Sunset Dinner Cruise is well worth the price of admission! The Boat is very clean and easy to get around. The staff we had over July 4th weekend were just terrific and the food that was served was great! We also enjoyed the Band playing good dancing music. Of course the scenery outside was just fantastic with a gorgeous Sunset around 8:30 pm. This Sunset Dinner Cruise was truly a highlight of our family of five Trip! We LOVED Lake Tahoe and plan to return again one day."
Jan McKinley
"We were really disappointed in our experience. The food was bland and overcooked. It's crampacked so it's hot, VERY loud and you're sharing your table with several other groups. Drinks were way overpriced! Parking is extra also. All said and done with two tickets, 3 drinks and parking...we were out $400. Would not recommend. (The sunset was beautiful though)"
Tasha Spaniel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MS Dixie II departs from Zephyr Cove Resort, located at 760 US-50, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448. Many visitors drive directly to the pier, though parking fees apply. Some reviews mention a shuttle bus, but advise caution regarding its comfort and air conditioning.
Yes, parking is available at Zephyr Cove, but it often comes with a fee (around $12 mentioned in one review). It's recommended to arrive early, especially for popular cruises, to secure a spot.
Public transportation options to Zephyr Cove can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
Traffic can be a concern, especially during peak season and weekends. Traveling during off-peak hours or weekdays can help mitigate traffic delays.
Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services or taxis. If staying nearby, walking or biking might be an option depending on your accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the MS Dixie II can be purchased online through their official website or at the Zephyr Cove Resort. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for dinner cruises.
Ticket prices vary depending on the cruise type (daytime scenic vs. dinner cruise). Daytime cruises are generally more affordable, while dinner cruises include food and entertainment. Check the official website for current pricing.
While specific promo codes aren't frequently mentioned, booking during off-peak times or looking for package deals might offer savings. Keep an eye on their official channels for any promotions.
Cancellation policies can vary. It's essential to review the terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact Zephyr Cove Resort directly for specific details regarding cancellations or rescheduling.
Absolutely! The MS Dixie II sunset dinner cruises are very popular and tend to sell out. Booking your tickets well in advance is crucial to guarantee your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Daytime scenic cruises typically last a few hours, often returning to Zephyr Cove after visiting Emerald Bay. Dinner cruises also have a set duration, usually around 2-3 hours.
The MS Dixie II often provides interesting historical commentary about Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, and the ship itself, enriching the scenic experience.
While the main decks are generally accessible, it's advisable to contact Zephyr Cove Resort directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and any potential limitations for individuals with mobility challenges.
The MS Dixie II typically features a gift shop, bar, and restrooms. Dinner cruises also include dining facilities and sometimes live music.
Dress in layers, as the weather on Lake Tahoe can be unpredictable. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and a light jacket or sweater is advisable even on warm days. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, food is not typically included with the daytime scenic cruises. However, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, including popular items like the 'rock slide brownie'.
Reviews for the dinner cruise food are mixed. Some find it great with good dancing music, while others describe it as bland or overcooked, particularly the prime rib.
Drinks are generally not included with the dinner cruise and can be quite expensive. It's advisable to budget for beverages separately.
The MS Dixie II dinner cruise menu can change seasonally. It's best to check the official Zephyr Cove Resort website for the most up-to-date menu information.
Zephyr Cove Resort offers various dining options, including a lodge and beachside cafes, providing alternatives if you prefer not to dine on the cruise.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cruise offers stunning photo opportunities, especially views of Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Sunsets are particularly spectacular. 
Professional photos are available for purchase (around $45 mentioned in one review), and while some find them worth the memory, many prefer to capture their own moments with their phones.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides beautiful, warm lighting for photography. Daytime cruises offer clear, bright light for capturing the vibrant blue of the lake.
Yes, you can generally take photos from most areas of the ship, including the decks and observation areas, to capture the panoramic views.
Typically, there are no major restrictions on personal photography or videography for non-commercial use. However, always be mindful of other passengers and crew.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gift shop can also be a hit for souvenirs. While the dinner cruise can be enjoyable, consider the length and the dining experience for younger children. The daytime cruise might be a more relaxed option. Remember to pack layers, as it can get cool on the water, and bring snacks or be prepared to purchase them onboard.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The breathtaking scenery of Emerald Bay adds to the magical ambiance. Even the daytime scenic cruises offer a beautiful backdrop for couples looking to enjoy the lake's tranquility together. Consider booking a table with a view for the dinner cruise to enhance the intimate experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save money onboard, as beverages can be pricey. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the MS Dixie II
Originally, tickets were significantly cheaper, reflecting a different economic landscape.
Cruising Lake Tahoe: The MS Dixie II Experience
+1For a more romantic or celebratory experience, the Sunset Dinner Cruises are highly recommended. These cruises combine breathtaking sunset views with a dining experience and often live music, creating a magical atmosphere.
While the scenery is consistently praised, reviews on the food quality for dinner cruises are varied, with some guests finding it excellent and others less impressed. Beyond the main cruise types, the MS Dixie II is a significant part of the Zephyr Cove Resort experience, which offers a range of activities from parasailing to beach relaxation.
Navigating Zephyr Cove and Parking
Parking at Zephyr Cove can be a challenge, particularly during peak season. The resort has dedicated parking lots, but they can fill up quickly, and some are reserved.
To make your visit smoother, arriving early is consistently advised. This gives you more time to find parking, get acquainted with the area, and line up for your cruise without feeling rushed.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit