Frequently Asked Questions

How does our booking work?
You can book online or in person (walk ins welcome on a 1st come-1st served basis). Our address is 2435 Venice Dr, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. All bookings come with a captain which you choose from a pre-approved list upon arrival. You can also appoint a USCG captain but must call staff well in advance to set up training. PLEASE READ YOUR EMAIL from us! It contains pertinent information about where we meet, what to bring, and your waivers. Many people who get lost do not read their email!
Where do i park?
The Tahoe Keys Marina has plenty of parking on the parking lot. On busy days, sometimes parking is limited, so parking on Venice Dr will do.
Do you deliver boats to other areas on the Lake?
Yes, please call (530) 659-3452 or email Contact@discovertahoerentals.com. We can drop off rentals on public docks or private docks that you have made arrangements with.
How much advance notice is needed to book?
Bookings can be made on the spot if there is a boat available. However, most of the time we sell out online well before.
What age requirements are there?
The responsible party (renter) must be at least 18 years old. The driver (operator) of the watercraft must be at least 25 years old and possess a current USCG Officer credential of any type. The operator must be trained with the watercraft well before the booking starts. Captains are retained on a list for hire by the renter.

If you are renting the watercraft without a captain (Must be discussed with staff well before the booking). You will need a Boaters Education card from either of the following states.

In Nevada, if you were born after 1983, you can obtain a Boaters Education Card. Visit the Nevada Boating Safety page on NDOW.org

In California, if you are 65 years old or younger, then you can obtain a California Boater Card. More information can be found here: Visit the California Boater Card website

If your boat is captained, then don’t worry about it.

Life jackets must be worn by anyone who is 12 or younger. This is USCG law and strictly enforced.

Is alcohol and smoking allowed?
Alcohol is allowed on the boat. The operator must remain sober by all means. If no one wants to be the DD, ask about the Captains service!

Smoking vapes and e-cigarettes’, pens, etc. are allowed. Smoking anything that causes ash to be produced and/or causes an increase risk of fire is prohibited onboard.

If you are renting the watercraft without a captain (Must be discussed with staff well before the booking). You will need a Boaters Education card from either of the following states.

In Nevada, if you were born after 1983, you can obtain a Boaters Education Card. Visit the Nevada Boating Safety page on NDOW.org

In California, if you are 65 years old or younger, then you can obtain a California Boater Card. More information can be found here: Visit the California Boater Card website

If your boat is captained, then don’t worry about it.

Life jackets must be worn by anyone who is 12 or younger. This is USCG law and strictly enforced.

How do I book?
Click on the “Book Adventure” page on the top of this webpage. You will find the booking process there. Pick a boat first, then fill in your information. Online available times are set well before the booking date. If you want to go out at a different time then what is open online, please call or text us at (530) 659-3452. Once you purchase your booking, you will get an email from us with meet up information and waivers. PLEASE READ THE EMAIL! It will save you time and confusion once you arrive at our busy marina.
How do waivers work?
We are now using an automated waiver system. If you complete the waivers online, you will just need to get on the boat when you arrive. If you don’t use the automated system, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your booking to sing waivers on our IPad. The person paying for the booking will need to be at least 18 years old. Each person riding with us will need to sign a liability waiver and the main renter will complete a pre-inspection report with the captain before they set out.
What is your cancelation policy?
100% refund 5 days before the booking starts no questions asked. Dangerous weather or boat malfunctions receive 100% refund or the option to reschedule. These are often last minute judgments due to their nature. We thank you in advance for your patients.

Renters more than a 1/2 hour late without making contact with staff will be considered a renter cancelation. Failure to provide adequate verification, sign rental agreements, etc. will also be considered a renter cancelation. The best way to reduce the chance of this happening is communicating with staff as soon as a problem is noticed. We do not refund any portion of the booking for late arrivals or missing guests. Please plan in advance.

What is considered dangerous weather?
Lake Tahoe can be a little fussy sometimes. Dangerous weather for purposes of cancelations are named storms, excessive wind causing larges waves or the watercraft to yaw or roll dangerously and active lightning storms. Other weather cancelations are at the discretion of staff. Usually, rain or cold/overcast weather does not qualify for a refund but you can get a reschedule if staff permits. Your safety is our #1 priority.

Renters more than a 1/2 hour late without making contact with staff will be considered a renter cancelation. Failure to provide adequate verification, sign rental agreements, etc. will also be considered a renter cancelation. The best way to reduce the chance of this happening is communicating with staff as soon as a problem is noticed. We do not refund any portion of the booking for late arrivals or missing guests. Please plan in advance.

What happens if the boat comes back damaged?
In most cases, the boats come back unharmed. However, weather the damage was caused by your captain or someone in your party, Discover Tahoe will investigate each case carefully.

Damage caused by captains are claims handled between DTCC and the captain. We retain these captains on a contract each year. Damages caused by captains are NOT your fault and you will not need to worry about any charges.

Damage caused by you or someone in your party are claims handled between DTCC and the main renter. If it is found that someone in the rental party damaged any part of the boat during the rental period, that damage will be charged on the renters credit card on file. We handle these claims seriously and document the boats condition before and after each booking.

Where are you located?
We operate on Lake Tahoe with convenient marina access across popular launch points. Exact meeting details are shared after booking.
Are there bathrooms on your boats?
Some larger boats include onboard restrooms. Availability depends on the boat type selected.
Do you allow dogs?
Dogs may be allowed on select boats with prior approval. Please check with us before booking.
What boat is right for my group?
It depends on group size, activities, and comfort level. We’re happy to recommend the best option.
How many passengers are allowed?
Passenger limits vary by boat and Coast Guard regulations. Each listing shows the maximum capacity.
What water sports and toys are included?
Some rentals include water toys like floaties or tubes. Inclusions vary by boat.
Do the boats have a stereo system or Bluetooth?
Yes, most boats feature a stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity.
What additional costs should I plan for?
Fuel, optional add-ons, and taxes are typical additional costs.
Is free parking available?
Parking availability depends on the marina. Some locations offer free or paid parking nearby.
Can I bring alcohol?
Yes, alcohol is allowed for guests of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Are lifejackets (PFDs) included?
Yes, all required lifejackets are included for adults and children.
Can we get picked up somewhere else?
Alternate pickup locations may be possible for an additional fee, subject to approval.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary by booking and season. Details are provided during the reservation process.
Do you offer Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is available during checkout for eligible bookings.
What food and beverages are provided?
Food and drinks are typically not provided. Guests are welcome to bring their own.
Can we cook, grill, or BBQ on the boat?
Cooking or grilling is not allowed on most boats for safety reasons.
Can we join another group or buy a ticket?
We primarily offer private charters. Shared experiences may be available seasonally.
What are your rates?
Rates vary by boat, duration, and season. Please check our booking page for current pricing.
Do you rent boats so that I can drive myself?
No, self-drive rentals are not available. All boat rentals include a licensed captain.
What should beginners know before trying Lake Tahoe Wake Surfing?
Beginners should plan sessions early in the morning when the lake is calmer. Professional captains guide first-time riders, provide safety instructions, and adjust the wave to suit their comfort level. No prior surfing experience is required.
What equipment is included for South Lake Tahoe Wake Surfing sessions?
Most charters include surfboards, life jackets, and a surf-ready boat. Some providers may also offer wetsuits and onboard coaching, so it’s best to confirm inclusions before booking.
What types of boats are available with South Lake Tahoe Boat Rentals?
Rental options often include pontoons, powerboats, and wake-surf boats suitable for families, groups, and watersports enthusiasts. Some rental boats are also equipped for activities such as tubing, wakeboarding, or scenic cruising.
Do I need boating experience to book Tahoe Boat Rentals?
No prior experience is required. Many Tahoe boat rentals include certified captains who manage navigation and safety, along with a short briefing on lake rules and equipment use.