The Best Pontoon Boat Rental on Lake Tahoe's South Shore
If you're looking for a pontoon boat rental in South Lake Tahoe, the Weekender is in a class of its own. Most South Lake Tahoe pontoon rentals are 22-foot to 25-foot boats with bench seating and a small motor. The Weekender is a 36-foot double-decker pontoon with a built-in BBQ, water slide, shaded bar area, and private bathroom — purpose-built for groups of 8 to 12 who want more than a quick lake cruise.
Departing from Zephyr Cove Marina on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, the Weekender is one of the largest and most-equipped pontoon rentals available on the lake. It's the boat people search for when they want a "Lake Tahoe pontoon boat rental" and find the standard fleet underwhelming.
What Makes This Pontoon Different
Size: 36 Feet, Two Decks
Most Lake Tahoe pontoon rentals top out at 24 feet. The Weekender is 36 feet with an upper deck — meaning genuine room for 12 people without anyone feeling crowded. The double-decker design also doubles as a launching platform for the water slide.
Onboard BBQ Grill
A built-in propane BBQ grill turns lunch on the lake into a real meal. Most pontoon rentals do not include a grill. This is the single most-mentioned feature in reviews of the Weekender.
Water Slide
A built-in water slide off the upper deck launches you into Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear water. Kids love it. Adults love it more.
Shaded Bar Area
Covered seating around a counter that doubles as a bar. Bring your own coolers, set up cans (no glass on the water), and stay comfortable through the hottest hours of the afternoon.
Private Bathroom
One of the few rental pontoons in South Lake Tahoe with a real onboard bathroom. Essential for full-day rentals, families with kids, and any group that doesn't want to cut the day short.
Self-Drive — No Captain Required
You pilot the boat. After a 15-minute marina orientation, your group has total privacy. No captain on board. No state boating license required to rent.
Book the Weekender Pontoon for Your Group
36-foot pontoon · BBQ, slide, bar & bathroom · Half day from $1,325 · Full day $1,950 · Up to 12 guests.
Check Availability & BookPontoon Boat Rental Pricing
| Option | Duration | Total | Per Person (12) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Day | 4 hours | $1,325 | ~$110 |
| Full Day | 8 hours | $1,950 | ~$163 |
Fuel surcharge applies separately based on usage. See the full Lake Tahoe pontoon rental pricing breakdown →
Where the Pontoon Departs
The Weekender is docked at Zephyr Cove Marina, 760 Highway 50, Zephyr Cove, NV 89448 — on the Nevada side of South Lake Tahoe, about 4 miles north of Stateline. The marina has parking, restrooms, a beach, and a full restaurant for pre- or post-cruise meals. More about Zephyr Cove Marina →
Where to Take a Pontoon Boat on Lake Tahoe
From Zephyr Cove, the Weekender can reach most of the south and east shore in 30–45 minutes, and Emerald Bay (~12 miles by water) on a full-day rental. Popular pontoon-friendly stops include:
Hidden Coves on the East Shore
Secret Cove, Whale Beach, and Chimney Beach are all within an easy cruise of Zephyr Cove. Crystal-clear water, granite shoreline, and far fewer crowds than the main public beaches. Full guide to the best coves to anchor →
Emerald Bay
Lake Tahoe's most iconic landmark. Best done as a full-day pontoon trip. More on cruising to Emerald Bay →
Sand Harbor & Cave Rock
Two of the most photogenic spots on the east shore — both reachable by pontoon from Zephyr Cove in 25–40 minutes.
More on the Boat
For a head-to-head comparison of the Weekender against other South Lake Tahoe pontoon rentals — feature tables, the self-drive vs. captained-charter math, and a full breakdown of what makes this specific boat the right choice — see our dedicated page on why the Weekender is the best pontoon on Lake Tahoe.
Pontoon Rental FAQs
Do I need a boating license to rent a pontoon on Lake Tahoe?
No state-issued license required for the Weekender. The marina conducts a safety orientation before departure. Operator must be at least 18 years old with valid government-issued ID. Full Lake Tahoe boating rules →
How many people can the pontoon hold?
The Weekender's USCG-rated capacity is 12 passengers. The boat is comfortable for groups of 8 to 12 — smaller groups have plenty of space, and 12 still fits without crowding.
What's included with the pontoon rental?
The boat itself with BBQ grill, water slide, bar area, bathroom, life jackets for all passengers, and a marina orientation. You bring your own food, drinks (cans and plastic only — no glass), and ice.
What's not included?
Fuel surcharge, optional gratuity for marina staff, and any food/drinks. Most groups budget $80–$200 for fuel depending on cruising distance.
How do I get to Zephyr Cove Marina?
Zephyr Cove is on Highway 50 on the Nevada side of South Lake Tahoe, about 4 miles north of the Stateline casinos. From Reno, it's about a 60-minute drive. From Sacramento, about 2 hours.
Are pets allowed on the pontoon?
The marina's policy allows well-behaved dogs on rental pontoons at the renter's discretion. Bring a doggy life jacket — Lake Tahoe water is cold (50–65°F most of the year) and even strong-swimming dogs benefit from one.
Book the Largest, Best-Equipped Pontoon Boat Rental on Lake Tahoe
The Weekender · 36-foot · BBQ, slide, bar & bathroom · 8 to 12 guests · Zephyr Cove Marina.
Check Availability & Book