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SkiingBoating and Boat Tours at Lake Geneva
Watersports on Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin’s crown jewel of luxury and leisure, has been a sought-after boating destination since the Gilded Age, when Chicago’s elite built their summer mansions along its pristine shoreline. This crystal-clear glacial lake spans 7.5 miles in length, offering boaters an intimate glimpse into both history and natural beauty. The lake’s shorepath, unique in that it allows public access around the entire 21-mile perimeter, provides boaters with unmatched views of magnificent estates and manicured gardens. From the historic Riviera Docks in downtown Lake Geneva to the quieter waters of Williams Bay, the lake provides multiple access points for both experienced sailors and first-time visitors.
POPULAR Watersports
Boating
Lake Geneva’s famous shoreline is best explored by boat, with tours highlighting historic estates, including the iconic Wrigley Mansion. Lake Geneva Cruise Line offers narrated tours that dive into the lake’s rich history while providing breathtaking views of its beautifully preserved mansions.
Wakeboarding
Thrill-seekers flock to Geneva Lake for wakeboarding, water skiing, and tubing. Local outfitters like Marina Bay Boat Rentals provide the equipment needed for an adrenaline-filled day. Beginners can book lessons, while pros will love the water near Big Foot Beach State Park.
Pontoon Rentals
Rent a pontoon boat from Gage Marine or Clear Water Outdoor for a leisurely day of fun with friends and family. Cruise the lake at your own pace, drop anchor near Geneva Bay for swimming, or dock at one of the lakefront restaurants like Pier 290.
Top Experiences
Lake Geneva Cruise Line – Sunset Dinner Tour
Dinner Cruise
Duration: 2.5 hours
Cost: $89 per person
Step aboard the elegant Lady of the Lake yacht for an unforgettable evening cruise. Guests enjoy a three-course dinner paired with a full bar, all while gliding past historic mansions, including the famed Stone Manor. The tour departs from Riviera Docks at 6:30 PM, offering spectacular sunset views over Geneva Lake.
Geneva Lake Tours – Lake Shore Mansion Tour
Narrated Historical Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: $54 per person
This guided tour will allow you to discover the opulent past of Geneva Lake’s Gilded Age estates. Captain Lisa Martinez narrates fascinating stories about iconic homes like Black Point Estate and Stone Manor. Multiple daily departures allow guests to explore the shoreline’s rich history at their convenience.
Clear Waters Outfitting – Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Intimate Scenic Tour
Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: $65 per person
Aboard a beautifully restored Chris-Craft boat, this intimate tour offers stunning sunset views of the lakefront. Enjoy complimentary wine, cheese, and charcuterie as Captain Tom Peterson takes you to the best photo spots on the water. Departing from Williams Bay, this is a perfect choice for couples and small groups seeking a relaxed yet upscale experience.
Lake Geneva Cruise Line – Black Point Estate Tour
Historic Estate Tour
Duration: 3.5 hours
Cost: $64 per adult, $53 per child
Experience: This tour combines a narrated boat ride with a guided visit to the historic Black Point Estate, built by Conrad Seipp in 1888. Guests enjoy a 45-minute scenic cruise before exploring the estate’s stunning architecture and history. Perfect for history enthusiasts, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Lake Geneva’s storied past.
Lake Geneva Private Tours
Personalized Luxury Tour
Duration: 2-4 hours (customizable)
Cost: $395 per hour (up to 6 people)
Tailor your perfect day on the lake with Captain Mark Stevens. Aboard a luxury pontoon, guests can swim, relax, or enjoy catering options while exploring Geneva Lake’s hidden gems. With flexible departure points and routes, this exclusive experience is ideal for families or groups celebrating a special occasion.
Top Marinas
Abbey Marina
MARINA
Located at the west end of Geneva Lake, Abbey Marina stands out as the only protected harbor on the lake, offering premium services to its guests. With 417 slips and a full-service facility, the marina caters to boaters with gas sales, expert maintenance, and attentive staff ready to assist. As part of the luxurious Abbey Resort, it provides access to exceptional dining at 240° West, where guests can enjoy upscale lakeside meals with panoramic views. During the summer months, Abbey Marina becomes a lively hub of activity, hosting live music, festive events, and community gatherings that draw visitors and locals alike. While boat rentals are not directly offered, the marina’s convenient location ensures access to rental services nearby.
Gordy’s Marina
MARINA
Gordy’s Marina, situated on Fontana’s picturesque lakefront, is a cornerstone of the Geneva Lake boating community. Renowned for its top-tier services, the marina offers everything from fuel and maintenance to an extensive selection of boat rentals, featuring sleek Cobalt models. For those seeking more adventure, Gordy’s also provides stand-up paddleboard rentals and a dedicated Ski/Wakeboard/Surf School, ensuring visitors can make the most of the lake’s sparkling waters. After a day of fun, the on-site Gordy’s Boat House beckons with its casual lakeside dining and refreshing cocktails, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. While specific events aren’t listed, Gordy’s commitment to water sports and community spirit suggests an array of gatherings and activities throughout the boating season.
Jerry’s Majestic Marine
“>MARINA
With multiple locations around Geneva Lake, Jerry’s Majestic Marine is a powerhouse for boat enthusiasts seeking top-notch service, storage, and rentals. Its state-of-the-art facilities include over 200,000 square feet of indoor space dedicated to maintenance and repair, as well as a rental and valet pier in Fontana. Known for its stellar customer service, Jerry’s also boasts a diverse sales inventory, featuring brands like Regal, Grady-White, and JC Pontoons, making it a trusted name for both seasoned boaters and newcomers. Although not directly tied to a restaurant, Jerry’s locations are conveniently close to dining options in Lake Geneva and Fontana, making it easy to pair a boating adventure with a delicious meal.
Gage Marine
“>MARINA
A legendary presence on Geneva Lake, Gage Marine combines full-service marina amenities with a vibrant social atmosphere. Known for managing the iconic Lake Geneva Cruise Line, Gage Marine offers visitors access to unforgettable boating tours, including the famed U.S. Mailboat Tour and seasonal cruises showcasing the beauty of the lake. Its on-site restaurant, PIER 290, elevates the experience with farm-to-table dining, live entertainment, and stunning waterfront views that make it a destination in itself. While Gage Marine doesn’t explicitly advertise boat rentals, it caters to families and groups with tailored boating experiences and a welcoming atmosphere that embodies the best of Lake Geneva living.
Boating on Lake Geneva
Planning a Perfect Day
Preparation is key to enjoying Lake Geneva’s pristine waters. During summer, temperatures range from 75-85°F, so pack sunscreen, reusable water bottles, towels, and a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings. Families should bring extra snacks, waterproof bags, and flotation devices for young swimmers. Plan your route to include popular destinations such as the Lake Geneva Public Beach, Fontana Beach, or quieter coves near Big Foot State Park for swimming and picnicking. Head to Fontana’s lakefront for water sports, where Gordy’s Ski and Wakeboard School offers lessons and rentals. Aim to dock before 8 PM to avoid navigating after dark, as lighting on the lake is limited.
Boating Safety and Local Regulations
Every passenger must wear a properly fitted life jacket, as required by Wisconsin state boating laws, and every boat must carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and a throwable flotation device. Observe no-wake zones, which are strictly enforced within 100 feet of shorelines, docks, piers, and swimmers, and remember that speed limits are 10 mph within 200 feet of the shore and up to 35 mph in open water. The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit patrols the lake regularly, ensuring compliance with safety and alcohol regulations. Wisconsin law sets a 0.08% BAC limit for operating a vessel, with zero tolerance for minors under 21. Check with the Lake Geneva Water Safety Patrol for the latest rules and emergency contacts.
Where to Refuel and Restock
Running low on fuel? Visit gas docks at Abbey Marina on the west end of the lake or Gordy’s Marina in Fontana. Both marinas provide fuel and essentials like ice, snacks, and beverages. For a dining break, dock at PIER 290, located near Gage Marine, for lakeside farm-to-table cuisine, or enjoy casual fare at Gordy’s Boat House. Boats typically consume 6-10 gallons of fuel per hour, so monitoring your fuel gauge is important, especially if you plan to explore the entire 21-mile shoreline.
Navigating Channels, Coves, and Open Waters
Lake Geneva’s 5,400 acres of water offer diverse experiences, but careful navigation is essential. Use a Lake Geneva depth chart or GPS to steer clear of shallow areas, especially near Geneva Bay and Big Foot Beach, where the water depth can drop to under 5 feet unexpectedly. Be mindful of buoys marking no-wake zones and hazards, and always keep a 200-foot distance from kayakers, paddleboarders, and anchored boats. Afternoon winds often cause choppier conditions, so mornings are best for a smooth ride. If you plan to venture near the center of the lake, expect depths of up to 135 feet, where the water remains cool even during peak summer.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to explore the open waters of Lake Geneva? From boat tours and excursions to boat rentals and the best swimming spots, let’s get some answers as you plan your visit!
Yes, Wisconsin law requires anyone born after January 1, 1989, to have a Wisconsin Boating Safety Certificate or a valid equivalent from another state to operate a motorized boat. Most rental companies, such as Gordy’s Marina or Jerry’s Majestic Marine, will verify your certification before allowing rentals.
The speed limit on Lake Geneva is 10 mph within 200 feet of the shoreline, docks, piers, or anchored boats. In open water, the speed limit is 35 mph during daylight hours. Be aware that local authorities, including the Walworth County Sheriff’s Marine Unit, strictly enforce these limits.
No-wake zones are enforced within 100 feet of the shoreline, public swimming areas, and near marinas such as the Riviera Docks and Abbey Marina. These zones ensure safety for kayakers, paddleboarders, and swimmers.
Popular rental locations include Gordy’s Marina in Fontana and Marina Bay Boat Rentals in Lake Geneva. These businesses offer pontoon boats, Cobalt speedboats, and jet skis. Rentals often include safety equipment, with hourly or daily rates starting at approximately $125/hour for boats and $85/hour for jet skis.
Transient docking fees vary depending on the marina. For example, Abbey Marina charges $20-$30 per day for transient docking, while public docks in downtown Lake Geneva have hourly parking rates of approximately $10/hour. For long-term slips, pricing at private marinas can exceed $4,000 per season.
Lake Geneva reaches a maximum depth of 135 feet, with much of the lake averaging around 60-80 feet. The deeper areas are ideal for trout fishing, while shallower sections near Geneva Bay are more suited for recreational boating.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity on Lake Geneva, which is home to bass, trout, and walleye. A Wisconsin fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and older. For serious competitors, Lake Geneva hosts annual fishing tournaments such as the Ice Fishing Challenge in winter and Bassmaster Opens during the warmer months.