Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Dinner Charcuterie or Sushi

If you’re considering a special outing in Los Angeles, the Marina Del Rey Romantic Cruise offers a lovely way to indulge in some waterside luxury. This tour isn’t just about sailing; it’s about creating memorable moments, whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just escaping for a peaceful sunset with a loved one. From the reviews and descriptions, it’s clear that this experience isn’t just popular but also highly rated, earning a perfect 5-star score from 29 happy customers.

What really catches the eye are the flexible dining options—from wine and charcuterie to sushi and even surprise dinners—paired with the tranquility of eco-friendly, noise-free electric boats. You get to enjoy the stunning California coastline, vibrant marine life, and a chance to see seals and dolphins, all with a knowledgeable captain guiding the way. The potential for breathtaking sunset views and personalized touches makes this tour stand out for couples and small groups seeking a relaxed yet special boat outing.

One thing to keep in mind is that the experience is geared more towards intimate groups, as the boats accommodate up to 20 people split into two vessels. While the price of about $109 per person offers good value considering the included amenities and personalized service, it’s worth noting that some add-ons—such as larger charcuterie boards, surprise dinners, or photo packages—cost extra. But based on reviews, many guests find the experience well worth the additional splurge.

This tour suits those craving a romantic escape, a unique way to celebrate a milestone, or simply a peaceful water adventure with stunning views. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate cruise with great food, wine, and a friendly guide, this could very well be the highlight of your trip to LA.

Contents show

Key Points

Eco-Friendly Boats: Fully electric, noise-free, and pollution-free, offering a peaceful cruising experience.
Flexible Dining Options: Choices include wine & charcuterie, sushi, or surprise dinners, enhancing the romantic vibe.
Small Group Intimacy: Up to 20 guests across two boats, perfect for couples or small groups seeking privacy.
Excellent Guides: Guided by knowledgeable captains like Shaun, who receive rave reviews for friendliness and local expertise.
Breathtaking Views: Expect stunning sunsets, vibrant marine life, and scenic coastline along Marina Del Rey.
Customizable Experience: Add-ons like flowers, photo packages, or special desserts make each cruise unique.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Los Angeles

The Boats and Setting

The experience takes place aboard eco-friendly Duffy boats, renowned for their quiet operation—imagine gliding across the water without engine noise or fumes. This detail makes the cruise particularly relaxing, allowing you to focus fully on the scenery and your company. The boats can comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests, divided into two vessels, which means you’ll enjoy a sense of privacy and intimacy even in a small group.

What to Expect on the Cruise

The tour duration varies between 1 to 2 hours, with specific start times depending on your booking. When you step aboard, the friendly captain—often someone like Shaun or Sean, who receive glowing reviews—greets you and helps set the mood with curated music. Several guests mention how knowledgeable and personable their guides are, sharing interesting tidbits about the marina and local marine life.

As you set sail, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the LA coastline, including iconic spots around Marina Del Rey. Sunset cruises are particularly popular, with many reviews describing the sky turning into a canvas of oranges and pinks, ideal for romantic photos or just soaking in the moment.

Food and Drinks

One of the most praised aspects is the food offerings. Basic inclusions include a small charcuterie board with meats, cheeses, and fruits, complemented by a bottle of red or white wine. Guests consistently mention how top-quality the food and drinks are—several reviews note that the chef outdid themselves with freshly prepared, delicious options.

For those wanting something extra, options like sushi, larger charcuterie boards, surprise dinners, and desserts are available as add-ons. Many guests appreciate the flexibility, with Shaun and other captains often accommodating special requests, like stopping for a quick burger from a dock. The ability to customize your experience enhances the sense of occasion, making it perfect for celebrating a special day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Marine Life and Water Activities

The cruise isn’t just about the views and food; it’s also an opportunity to see marine animals in their natural habitat. Guests frequently report spotting sea lions and dolphins, which adds a playful element to the trip. The calm, water-based environment makes it a relaxing yet exciting water activity experience, especially for wildlife enthusiasts.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Los Angeles

The Captain and Service

What sets this tour apart, according to reviews, is the warm, friendly nature of the guides. Shaun and Sean are described as knowledgeable, attentive, and entertaining hosts. Guests especially love how guides like Shaun share interesting facts about the marina’s history and marine life, making the cruise both fun and educational.

One reviewer noted that Shaun even took photos of their group during sunset, adding a personal touch that left a lasting impression. The captain’s approachable attitude and ability to tailor the experience are often highlighted as reasons guests want to return.

Practical Considerations

The booking process is straightforward, with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility. Confirmations are typically sent via text or email within an hour, so don’t arrive without confirmation.

Parking can be a bit of a hassle; valet parking costs around $49-$59, with a minimum gratuity of $25 per guest or 20% of the booking. Alternatively, street or public parking is available within a short walk. The tour explicitly states that smoking and alcohol/drugs are not permitted onboard, ensuring a family-friendly, respectful atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Couples seeking a romantic, intimate date with beautiful views and good food.
Small groups celebrating special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.
Travelers wanting a relaxing water activity combined with wildlife sightings.
Those who value personalized service and a knowledgeable guide.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $109 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded, intimate experience that combines scenic beauty, excellent food, and friendly guidance. The inclusion of a bottle of wine and a charcuterie platter makes it feel like a luxury escape without breaking the bank. The fact that many reviews mention repeat bookings and high praise for guides like Shaun and Sean speaks volumes about its quality.

If you’re after a peaceful, romantic outing with stunning sunset views, marine life encounters, and the chance to indulge in quality food and wine, this cruise is a fantastic choice. While it’s not a huge party boat, its cozy vibe makes it ideal for those wanting to savor the moment in a small, relaxed setting.

Who Should Book?

This experience is perfect for couples and small groups looking for a special, personalized water adventure. It’s ideal for celebrating a milestone or simply unwinding with loved ones in LA’s gorgeous marina setting. If you prefer large parties or wild nightlife, this might not be your best fit—but for quiet elegance and a touch of romance, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Q: How long is the cruise?
A: The cruise lasts between 1 and 2 hours, with specific start times available depending on your reservation.

Q: Is the boat suitable for wildlife viewing?
A: Yes, many guests report seeing sea lions and dolphins, making it a fun bonus for marine life enthusiasts.

Q: Can I bring my own food or drinks?
A: The tour provides a selection of wine and charcuterie, but additional food and drinks can be booked as add-ons beforehand.

Q: Is parking included?
A: Parking isn’t included; valet parking costs around $49-$59, or you can find street parking within walking distance.

Q: Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
A: Smoking and alcohol or drug consumption are not allowed onboard. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, people over 250 lbs, or babies under 1 year.

Q: How do I confirm my booking?
A: Bookings require confirmation via text or email within an hour and can be reserved with the option to pay later, offering flexibility.

To sum it up, this Marina Del Rey romantic cruise provides excellent value for those wanting an upscale, intimate way to enjoy LA’s coastline. With its friendly guides, flexible dining options, and peaceful electric boats, it’s a perfect choice for making a special day truly memorable.