Hornblower Uses Fast Craft to Enhance Service

Hornblower Cruises & Events will introduce an improved Lake-to-Ski package this season, transporting passengers in the morning aboard the fastest boat on the Lake, the Meteor, and in the evening on the 500-passenger Tahoe Queen for an after-ski party. The 60-foot Meteor, previously used as a thrill-ride in Seattle, was built in 1993 and reaches speeds up to 30 miles per hour. Coast Guard certified for 124 passengers, Hornblower remodeled the vessel to accommodate 90 passengers in addition to bikes, kayaks and other recreational equipment. The Meteor will initiate the Lake Link service, acting as a ferry service across Lake Tahoe and offering land-side packages including ski, golf, hiking, shopping and sightseeing trips. Lake Link tickets start at $25 for a sightseeing tour of the lake. The idea is not a new one for Hornblower, which has been hosting a ski package with transportation aboard the Tahoe Queen since the early 1980s. "The Meteor's ability to cross the lake in 40 minutes gets skiers to the slopes earlier and faster than if they drove themselves," said Carol Chaplin, general manager for Hornblower's Tahoe port. "The day becomes complete with the easy-paced return trip on the Queen featuring food, fun and entertainment. It is a great and unique way to experience Tahoe skiing." The Tahoe Queen is the largest and only authentic sternwheeler on Lake Tahoe, a place she has called home for nearly 20 years. Renovated earlier this year, the Queen boasts all new interiors including the addition of food and beverage service on the third deck to accompany the open-air vistas.