When the Thunderbird is out on the lake, it turns heads of locals and visitors alike. The 55-foot yacht has owned Lake Tahoe for 70 years. No other boat has its reputation or history.
George Whittell, the eccentric owner of the Thunderbird Lodge, rocketed famous guests around the lake and gave all a special thrill.
Whittell built the yacht for $87,000, and according to legend, launched it from Tahoe City on July 14, 1940, in the pre-dawn hours.
Today, the famous yacht is owned by a Nevada public charity, Foundation 36, and still enjoys its time out on the lake.