The 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach offers a fascinating mix of marine life, scenic harbor views, and laid-back coastal charm, making it an ideal spot for boat tours. Whether you’re eager to see colorful fish through a glass bottom, watch sea lions up close, or enjoy a relaxing paddle around the harbor, this South Bay community delivers options for every kind of water enthusiast. The calm waters and natural beauty promise memorable moments on the water without the crowds or confusion found in busier ports.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed reviews of two standout boat experiences: the Glass Bottom Boat Ride in Redondo Beach, which combines marine life viewing with a touch of history, and the Electric Duffy Boat Rentals, perfect for families or groups wanting a flexible, self-guided adventure. We’ll explore what each tour includes, why they’re worth considering, and who they’re best suited for—helping you decide which boat trip will make your visit truly special.
Quick Overview
This guide covers two popular boat tours in Redondo Beach. The first is a 45-minute glass bottom tour that offers a close look at sea lions, marine birds, and colorful fish through large underwater windows. The second is a Duffy boat rental that gives you the freedom to paddle around King Harbor at your own pace, choosing your route and timing. Both offer unique ways to experience the local waters, with the glass bottom tour emphasizing marine life and history, while the Duffy rentals focus on independence and personalized exploration.
1. Glass Bottom Boat Ride in Redondo Beach
The Glass Bottom Boat Ride in Redondo Beach stands out for its accessible, family-friendly experience. For $30 per person, you’ll spend approximately 45 minutes cruising around King Harbor, with your main attraction being the underwater viewing room. This is the only glass bottom tour in the South Bay, making it a unique opportunity to see marine life without getting wet.
The tour begins on the outside deck, where the captain provides a lively commentary on the harbor’s history and surrounding scenery. Then, you’re invited downstairs to gaze through 7-foot-wide windows into the water below. Here, you’ll spot local sea lions, pelicans, and a variety of fish, including the colorful California State fish, the garibaldi. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see sea lions in their natural habitat, often close enough to feel like you’re part of the scene. The captain’s knowledge, combined with the clear water and stable ride, ensures a smooth and engaging experience.
This tour is ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone interested in a quick, visually captivating glimpse into local marine life. The price point is very reasonable, and the 45-minute length means you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed. One reviewer called it “a lovely guide with lots of fish to see from down below,” emphasizing its suitability for all ages, especially kids.
Bottom Line: The glass bottom boat offers a short but immersive look at Redondo Beach’s underwater world, combining scenic harbor views with marine life. It’s great for a quick, inexpensive adventure with a strong educational component.
2. Electric Duffy Boat Rentals
The Electric Duffy Boat Rentals, with no reviews yet, provides a different kind of experience—self-guided, flexible, and perfect for small groups or families. For $13, you gain access to a Duffy electric boat that you can operate yourself for 1 to 3 hours. The company is family owned, offering a more personal touch and extra attention to detail compared to larger rental outfits.
The company prides itself on safety and instruction, providing maps and rules to ensure you feel confident navigating the calm waters of King Harbor. With only two boats available, the focus is on quality service and a more intimate experience. You can tailor your trip entirely—whether you want to cruise past the marinas, stop at a waterfront restaurant, or just relax while floating on the water. The electric Duffy boats are quiet, environmentally friendly, and easy to handle, making them ideal for novices.
This rental appeals most to visitors who enjoy DIY adventures, small groups, or those seeking a relaxed, customizable outing. The cost is very affordable, making it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers or those wanting longer time on the water. The main potential drawback is that the boats do not come with a guided commentary, so you’ll miss out on insider info unless you do some research beforehand.
Bottom Line: The Duffy boat rental offers a flexible, cost-effective way to explore Redondo Beach’s harbor at your own pace. It’s perfect for independent explorers and small groups who want to control their adventure.
How to Choose
Choosing between these two options depends on your interests, budget, and how much effort you want to put into the experience. If a guided, educational tour with guaranteed marine animal sightings appeals to you—especially with kids or first-timers—the glass bottom boat is your best bet. It’s quick, comfortable, and packed with visual treats.
On the other hand, if you prefer a relaxed, self-directed outing and have some boating confidence, the Duffy boat rental offers the freedom to explore at your pace, whether it’s a romantic sunset cruise or a family picnic on the water. Budget, time available, and comfort with operating a boat are key considerations here.
Booking early is recommended for both, especially during peak summer months or weekends, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Both boat experiences in Redondo Beach offer a different way to enjoy this scenic coastal area. The Glass Bottom Boat Ride provides a quick, engaging glimpse of marine life with a commentary on local history—ideal for families and first-time visitors. Meanwhile, the Duffy Boat Rental gives you a chance to create your own adventure, perfect for those who want to relax and explore at their own pace.
For travelers with limited time or a focus on marine nature, the glass bottom tour is a no-brainer—affordable and visually impressive. If you’re after a personalized, leisurely experience that can be tailored to your group’s interests, then renting a Duffy boat offers the freedom and flexibility you crave. Either way, booking in advance ensures you’ll make the most of your time on Redondo Beach’s beautiful waters.
Enjoy your water-bound adventures, and don’t forget to bring your camera and a sense of curiosity—Redondo Beach’s waters are waiting to surprise you.