SOUTH LAKE TAHOE KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Glass-Bottomed Freedom: A Point-to-Point Clear-Kayak Tour Across South Lake Tahoe
A 3-hour excursion aboard the Clearly Explorer that pairs a scenic boat cruise with a guided clear-kayak paddle, useful for travelers who want an easy, discovery-focused way to explore Tahoe’s quieter shorelines.
Glass-Bottomed Freedom: A Point-to-Point Clear-Kayak Tour Across South Lake Tahoe.
Departing from South Lake Tahoe, the Clearly Explorer combines a short cruise with a guided clear-kayak launch that places paddlers into crystalline water away from crowded beaches, emphasizing exploration of secluded, untouched shoreline and a relaxed, discovery-first pace.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Point-to-point access to secluded shorelines
The Clearly Explorer operates as Lake Tahoe’s only point-to-point kayak tour, cruising guests to paddle destinations unreachable from shore so you can cover more shoreline and access raw, untouched stretches of the lake.
Clear kayaks and guided launch from the boat
Kayaks are launched directly from the vessel for a guided 1 to 1.5-hour clear-kayak tour; participants paddle at their own pace and may return to the boat at any time during the tour.
Onboard amenities and snacks for a relaxed day
Aboard the 46' tri-toon guests have access to complimentary snacks, water, dry bags, sunscreen, life jackets and a restroom so the experience balances exploration with comfort.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The outing unfolds as a compact 3-hour loop (4 hours of total activity time) that begins with a scenic boat ride from South Lake Tahoe to a chosen launch site, followed by a guided clear-kayak exploration in which paddlers can linger over glassy shallows, spy the lake floor through the hull, and return to the boat whenever they choose.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a towel or camera if desired; guests should wear light layers and shoes that are easy to remove since participants and belongings may get wet.
Clearly Tahoe supplies clear kayaks, paddles, USCG-approved PFDs, dry bags, small coolers with water and granola bars, light snacks, sunscreen and a restroom aboard the vessel.
Light jackets are recommended while the vessel is underway; swimsuits are optional but not required.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Clearly Explorer outing?
The tour is a 3-hour excursion with about 4 hours of total activity time.
Where do I check in for the tour?
Guests must check in at the Clearly Tahoe Keys Marina shop in South Lake Tahoe and arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure; electronic waivers must be completed before departure.
Are life jackets and instruction provided?
Yes — USCG-approved life preservers and basic instruction are provided, and the tour includes a guided kayak portion.
Can I skip the kayaking and stay on the boat?
Yes — there is no rate change for passengers who choose to forego the kayaking portion; the boat still provides transport and onboard amenities.
What age or weight limits apply?
Guests must be at least 4 years old to participate; children under 12 must ride in a boat with an adult 18+ and the combined weight limit per boat is 375 lbs.
Are pets allowed on the tour?
No — pets are not permitted on this tour.