Zach has been fortunate to captain boats here in Lake Tahoe for nearly 20 years, which is why he chooses to spend his summers in the Sierra Nevada, calling this alpine lake his true home base. As the owner of Rent a Boat Tahoe, he’s spent two decades on the water in every capacity imaginable — driving surf boats for thrill-seekers, piloting bachelor and bachelorette parties, and guiding family outings for guests making memories on the lake.

A true Tahoe historian at heart, Zach has an unmatched love for the lake’s stories, its hidden corners, and the way it changes with the seasons. That deep local knowledge, paired with two decades behind the wheel, means every trip out with Zach comes with more than just a boat ride — it comes with the perspective of someone who genuinely knows and loves these waters.

When summer winds down, Zach heads to Maui for the winter, guiding whale watching excursions and working aboard a whale research vessel — adding marine research experience to his maritime résumé. He’s also captained a season in the Caribbean, driving private charters for the Ritz-Carlton across the US and British Virgin Islands. From Tahoe’s emerald coves to Maui’s whale migrations to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Zach brings a truly global captain’s perspective to every voyage.

For Captain Funk, life has always been lived on the water. Growing up behind the wheel of boats on Lake Okoboji, a lifelong passion naturally evolved into a career. For over a decade, Captain Funk has been a U.S. Coast Guard Certified Captain, a journey that truly took off on the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe.

From commanding the Sierra Cloud—Lake Tahoe’s premier 55-foot catamaran—to navigating the Gulf of Mexico, living aboard, and sailing the open ocean from Panama to Colombia, Captain Funk’s maritime experience spans both international waters and local treasures.
Having spent over two decades on Lake Tahoe, Captain Funk knows the lake far beyond the tourist maps. Whether you are looking to escape the crowds in a secluded, emerald-water cove, find the absolute best spots to drop anchor for a swim, or catch a hidden sunset view, you are in the hands of a seasoned local guide.

Combining a lifetime of powerboating and professional sailing experience with a deep love for Tahoe’s secret gems, Captain Funk ensures every voyage is both safe and unforgettable.

With a lifetime spent on the water, Captain James developed a passion for boating at an early age. Growing up around boats, he built the kind of skills that only years on the water can teach. After countless hours navigating Lake Tahoe, he earned his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License and has since safely guided guests across one of the most beautiful — and demanding — lakes in the country.

Known for his professionalism, safety-first mindset, and deep local knowledge, Captain James brings a calm demeanor and a genuinely friendly personality to every trip out. He’s committed to creating a fun, relaxing, and memorable experience for each charter — whether that means a scenic cruise around the lake, a full day of watersports, or simply a stress-free afternoon on the water. With Captain James at the helm, you can count on exceptional service, delivered with confidence and care.