Sunset Cruises
Watch the sky transform over Lake Lanier as you glide through golden waters. Our most popular experience, perfect for couples, anniversaries, and celebrations.
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Lake Lanier's Premier Sailing Experience
Set Sail on an Unforgettable Adventure
Private sailing charters just 40 minutes from Atlanta. Sunset cruises, corporate team building, and hands-on sailing lessons on beautiful Lake Lanier with Captain John Rice.
USCG Certified Captain
Private Charters Only
BYOB Welcome
20+ Years Experience
20+
Years on the Water
5,000+
Happy Guests
4.8
Average Rating
100%
Private Cruises
Our Sailing Experiences
Adventures for Every Occasion
From intimate sunset sails to corporate team building on the water, every charter is a private experience tailored to your group.
Private Day Sails
Your own private sailboat adventure on Lake Lanier. Bring your crew, your cooler, and your sense of wonder. 2.5 to 7 hours of pure sailing bliss.
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Corporate Team Building
Twenty years of Fortune 500 experience. From sailing regattas to treasure hunts, we build teams that actually work together.
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Family & Kids Cruises
Kids love the water, and Captain John loves showing families the ropes. Pack a picnic and make memories that last.
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Pirate Cruise
Costumes, treasure hunts, and sea shanties on Lake Lanier. Our most unique experience, perfect for birthdays and celebrations.
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"Feel the wind in your hair, the sun on your face,
and leave the world behind."
- Captain John Rice
Meet Your Captain
Captain John Rice
20+ years guiding guests through the beauty of Lake Lanier
What started as a love for sailing became a life's work. Captain John Rice has spent over two decades on Lake Lanier, sharing the magic of wind and water with thousands of guests. A US Coast Guard certified captain with a passion for hospitality, John believes every charter should feel personal, safe, and unforgettable.
Guest Experiences
What Our Sailors Say
"An unforgettable experience! Captain John made our sunset sail magical. The views of Lake Lanier at golden hour were breathtaking, and the whole crew made us feel like VIPs. We have already booked our next trip."
"The hands-on sailing lesson was both fun and educational. Captain John is a natural teacher who makes everyone feel comfortable, whether you have sailed before or not. We cannot wait to come back!"
"Our private cruise was the perfect way to celebrate our anniversary. The sunset was stunning, we brought our own wine and cheese, and Captain John even took photos for us. Truly special."
"We booked a team building event for our Atlanta office and it exceeded every expectation. The sailing regatta format was brilliant. Our team still talks about it months later."
"Wonderful private charter sunset cruise for our 25th anniversary! John was a great captain, very knowledgeable, and the whole experience felt premium. Highly recommend."
Moments on the Water
Life on Lake Lanier
Book Your Charter
Reserve Your Sailing Experience
Choose your adventure, pick a date, and set sail. It only takes a minute.
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Choose Your Experience
Sunset Cruise
2.5 hrs
Private Day Sail
2.5 hrs
Half-Day Charter
4 hrs
Full-Day Charter
7 hrs
Corporate Team Building
Custom
Pirate Cruise
2.5 hrs
How Many Guests?
Pick Your Date & Time
Your Contact Info
Your Reservation Request is Confirmed!
Captain John will reach out within 24 hours to finalize your booking.
Call 770-271-1888 for immediate confirmation.
Common Questions
Everything You Need to Know
We are BYOB, so bring your own cooler with drinks (alcohol is welcome), snacks, or a picnic basket. We recommend sunscreen, sunglasses, and soft-soled shoes. Captain John provides all sailing equipment and safety gear.
Our classic sailboat accommodates up to 9 guests for a 2.5-hour cruise. For groups of 10-16, we offer a 3-hour extended cruise. For corporate team building, we can accommodate larger groups with multiple vessels and activities.
Safety is our top priority. If conditions are unsafe for sailing, Captain John will contact you to reschedule at no additional charge. Light rain typically does not cancel a trip and can create a beautiful, unique experience on the water.
We are at Safe Harbor Aqualand Marina, Dock Q, located at 6800 Lights Ferry Rd, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. It is about 40 minutes north of Atlanta, right in the most scenic part of Lake Lanier.
Not at all! Most of our guests are first-time sailors. Captain John and his crew handle everything. Of course, if you want to get hands-on and help raise the sails, you are more than welcome to.
Children are welcome on all cruises. We recommend ages 5 and up for the best experience. For sailing lessons, children 10 and older can participate with an adult. We also offer a special Pirate Cruise that kids absolutely love.
We recommend booking at least one week in advance, especially for weekend sunset cruises during summer months (June-August). Weekday availability is generally more flexible. For corporate events, 2-3 weeks notice is ideal.
Gratuity is not included in our charter prices but is always appreciated. Most guests tip 15-20% for exceptional service. Captain John and crew work hard to make every charter memorable.
Get in Touch
Ready to Set Sail?
Phone
770-271-1888
Location
Safe Harbor Aqualand Marina, Dock Q
6800 Lights Ferry Rd
Flowery Branch, GA 30542
Hours
Open Daily, Weather Permitting
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Your Adventure Awaits
Set Sail on Lake Lanier
Book your private sailing charter today and discover why thousands of guests choose Captain John and Lord Nelson Charters.