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 with Captain John Rice. Or join our new Wednesday group sail at $79 per person.
Experienced Captain
Mostly Private Charters
BYOB Welcome
20+ Years Experience
Since
1997 on Lake Lanier
1
Captain · Personal Service
5★
Real Google & TripAdvisor Reviews
10
Wednesday Spots / Week
New · Group Sail
Wednesday's on the Water
A more accessible way to sail. Wednesday's on the Water is our only group sail - up to ten guests share the deck for 2.5 hours. Same Lake Lanier, same Captain John, lower price per person. The first ten to sign up get the seats.
10 spots only
2.5 hours
BYOB welcome
Captain John at the helm
Sails confirm once we have at least four guests reserved by Tuesday at 8:00 PM. If the weather does not cooperate or the minimum is not reached, we move you to the following Wednesday (no refunds processed - just postpone). Private charters take priority on the same date.
First-come, first-served
Per Person
$79
One Wednesday seat · 2.5-hour sail
- Group setting - share the deck with up to nine others
- Bring your own drinks & snacks
- Sunset-window timing
- Bumped to next Wednesday if weather cancels
No charge until your sail is confirmed. Wednesday confirmations are finalized Tuesday at 8:00 PM. No refunds - postponements only.
Our Sailing Experiences
Adventures for Every Occasion
From intimate private sunset sails to corporate team building, plus our weekly Wednesday group sail. Every experience is built for the people on the boat.
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. With a deep passion for hospitality and safety, John believes every charter should feel personal, calm, and unforgettable.
Guest Experiences
What Our Sailors Say
"John and his wife were incredibly accommodating for our engagement shoot, and we enjoyed getting to know them and their boat is incredible!"
"We went on a sailing sunset cruise at Lake Lanier with Lord Nelson Charters and it was so relaxing! I highly recommend this company for a friends and family outing!"
"Excellent experience. I planned an administrative outing day and we took a tour on the private charter. Our captain was very knowledgeable and a overall people person, we plan to do this again next year and I highly recommend Lord Nelson Charters."
"Amazing experience!!! Will definitely recommend to others!!"
Moments on the Water
Life on Lake Lanier
Photos by Captain John Rice, aboard Lord Nelson on Lake Lanier.
From the Helm
Captain's Log
Tips, stories, and guides from life on Lake Lanier.
5 Reasons a Sunset Sail Beats Any Restaurant Date Night
Forget the crowded restaurant. Here is why couples across Atlanta are trading dinner reservations for a private sunset sail.
March 15, 2026
5 min read
What to Expect on Your First Sailing Charter
Never been on a sailboat? Everything you need to know before your first charter with Captain John.
March 8, 2026
7 min read
Why Lake Lanier is Georgia's Best-Kept Secret for Team Building
Boardrooms build presentations. Sailboats build teams. Captain John explains why after 20 years.
February 28, 2026
6 min read
Book Your Charter
Reserve Your Sailing Experience
Choose your adventure, pick a date, and set sail. It only takes a minute.
1
2
3
4
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
$79
Wednesday's on the Water
2.5 hrs · 10 spots
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.