The 2025 Holiday Lights Cruises in Newport Beach promise a captivating 75-minute excursion for visitors. Guests can marvel at millions of dazzling lights illuminating the bayfront estates, all while enjoying stunning views of the decorated yachts from the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. With convenient check-in locations and an affordable starting price of just $39.52 per person, this festive outing is sure to delight those seeking a unique holiday experience. But there’s more to discover about this magical cruise…
Key Points
- The 75-minute Newport Beach Holiday Lights Cruises run between 4:30 PM and 9:00 PM, with prices starting at $39.52 per person.
- Cruise passengers can enjoy views of the decorated yachts and ships from the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade.
- Select cruise dates include spectacular fireworks displays, providing a unique holiday experience on the water.
- Cruises before 5 PM or after 9:30 PM (Dec 18-22) are dedicated Holiday Lights Cruises, without the boat parade.
- Passengers can park at the Balboa Pier lot and check-in at the Historic Balboa Pavilion, Davey’s Locker, or Newport Landing.
Cruise Overview and Details
The 2025 Newport Bay Holiday Lights Cruises offer a 75-minute excursion, with prices starting from $39.52 per person.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The cruises depart between 4:30 PM and 9:00 PM, allowing visitors to marvel at the millions of holiday lights and décor along the bayfront estates in the Ring Of Lights competition.
Passengers can also witness the decorated yachts and ships from the boat parade and, on select dates, spectacular fireworks.
Looking for more options in Newport Beach? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Experience and Highlights
Visitors can marvel at millions of holiday lights and festive décor as they cruise past the bayfront estates participating in the renowned Ring Of Lights competition.
The cruise also offers a unique vantage point to view the decorated yachts and ships from the 116th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade.
On select dates, guests can witness spectacular fireworks displays that illuminate the night sky.
Spectacular fireworks displays that illuminate the night sky can be witnessed on select dates during the cruise.
Throughout the relaxing evening under the stars, passengers can enjoy the holiday atmosphere and festive ambiance of the Newport Bay.
Boat Parade Information
Although the cruise route covers 85% of the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, passengers can still see many of the parade entrants during the 75-minute cruise. The boats are illuminated with festive lights and decorations as they float along the harbor.
Passengers enjoy the parade without the crowds and parking hassles of watching from the shoreline. On select dates, guests can witness the entire 116th Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade from the comfort of the cruise.
This is an excellent way to experience the annual tradition and marvel at the decorated yachts and ships.
Meeting and Check-in Information
To reach the cruise departure locations, passengers are recommended to park at the Balboa Pier parking lot.
Check-in can be done at three convenient locations: the Historic Balboa Pavilion, Davey’s Locker, or Newport Landing.
Arriving 45 minutes to 1 hour before the scheduled departure time is advised to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The cruise departs from the following addresses:
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309 Palm Street Suite A, Newport Beach, CA
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400 Main Street, Newport Beach, CA
Important Policies and Restrictions
Certain items aren’t permitted on the Newport Beach Holiday Lights Cruises, such as high-heeled shoes, alcohol, drugs, and coolers.
Cruises before 5 PM or after 9:30 PM (Dec 18-22) are Holiday Lights Cruises, not boat parade cruises.
All Boat Parade & Holiday Lights Cruise bookings are final sale. Rescheduling is allowed up to 7 days before departure with a $5 fee per ticket, but not all requests may be honored.
These policies and restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers during the holiday lights cruises.
Cruise Departure Times
The Newport Beach Holiday Lights Cruises offer multiple departure times throughout the evening, allowing visitors to choose a time that best suits their schedule.
Cruises depart between 4:30 PM and 9:00 PM, with options every 30 minutes:
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4:30 PM
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5:00 PM
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5:30 PM
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6:00 PM
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6:30 PM
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7:00 PM
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7:30 PM
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8:00 PM
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8:30 PM
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9:00 PM
This range of departure times ensures guests can enjoy the stunning holiday light displays and boat parade at a convenient time.
Visitors are advised to arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour before their selected departure to allow ample time for check-in and boarding.
Accessing the Cruise
Visitors can conveniently access the Newport Beach Holiday Lights Cruises from several check-in locations. The recommended parking is at the Balboa Pier parking lot. Guests can check-in at the Historic Balboa Pavilion, Davey’s Locker, or Newport Landing. Arriving 45 minutes to 1 hour before the departure time is advised to ensure a smooth check-in process.
| Check-in Location | Address |
| — | — |
| Historic Balboa Pavilion | 309 Palm Street Suite A, Newport Beach, CA |
| Davey’s Locker | 400 Main Street, Newport Beach, CA |
| Newport Landing | 309 Palm Street Suite A, Newport Beach, CA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’re some frequently asked questions about the Newport Beach Holiday Lights Cruises?
Passengers often wonder about the following:
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Can I bring my own food and drinks on board? No, outside food and alcohol aren’t permitted. However, light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on the cruise.
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Are the cruises wheelchair accessible? Yes, the boats have ramps for easy boarding, and the interior has ample space for wheelchairs.
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Do the cruises operate in inclement weather? The cruises generally run rain or shine, but may be canceled in severe weather conditions. Ticket holders will be notified of any changes.
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When is the best time to arrive for my cruise? It’s recommended to arrive 45-60 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols for the Cruise?
The cruise provider requires all passengers to wear masks when social distancing isn’t possible. Hand sanitizer is available, and enhanced cleaning protocols have been implemented to ensure a safe experience. Capacity may be limited to allow for proper distancing.
Can I Bring My Service Animal on the Cruise?
Passengers are allowed to bring service animals on the cruise, as long as they provide proper documentation and the animals remain leashed or harnessed at all times. The cruise line has a service animal policy in place to accommodate guests.
Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?
The cruise is wheelchair accessible. The vessels have ramps for easy boarding, and crew members are available to assist passengers with disabilities. Guests using mobility devices are welcome on the holiday lights cruises.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Cruise?
Guests can take photos and videos during the cruise. Photography and videography are allowed, as long as it doesn’t interfere with other passengers’ enjoyment of the experience or pose safety risks.
What Are the Options for Dietary Restrictions on the Cruise?
Dietary restrictions aren’t directly addressed, but the cruises don’t include any catering. Passengers can bring their own snacks and beverages to accommodate any dietary needs, but there are no specialty meals provided on board.
The Sum Up
The 2025 Holiday Lights Cruises in Newport Beach offer a captivating 75-minute excursion showcasing millions of dazzling holiday lights along the bayfront estates. With prices starting at just $39.52 per person, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the decorated yachts from the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade while relaxing under the stars. It’s the perfect festive outing with convenient check-in locations and a scenic route covering 85% of the parade.
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