Los Angeles #1: Luxury Boat Cruise-Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions

If you’re looking for a calm, sophisticated way to experience Marina del Rey, this luxury boat cruise offers an ideal blend of scenery, wildlife, and fine flavors. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a chance to unwind on the water with a glass of wine in hand, watching sea lions frolic and the sky turn shades of pink and orange as the sun sets. The experience is designed to appeal to those craving a relaxed yet upscale outing, whether for a romantic date, a birthday celebration, or simply a memorable afternoon.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable captain adds a personal touch, sharing stories and insights about the marina and local wildlife. Second, the quality of the included wine, cheese, and charcuterie elevates the experience beyond typical boat tours. The slight catch? It’s a relatively short 2-hour trip, so travelers looking for a more extensive sightseeing adventure might find it a bit brief. Overall, it’s best suited for those wanting a cozy, intimate escape with a dash of luxury—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates good food, great company, and scenic views.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: A Duffy boat provides a smooth, relaxing ride with stylish touches.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see playful sea lions and learn about the local marine environment.
• Gourmet Bites & Drinks: The included wine and charcuterie set a refined tone.
• Flexible Timing: Available in the morning, afternoon, or evening to suit your schedule.
• Personalized Service: The captain’s engaging commentary enhances the cruise.
• Add-On Options: Plenty of opportunities to customize with romantic extras or special treats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Afternoon or Evening Out

From the moment you step onto the dock at Marina Del Rey, you’ll notice how easy it is to settle into a leisurely pace. The meeting point, at 4360 via Marina behind the Brizo Bar and Restaurant, is straightforward, and the boat itself is a sleek Duffy model, designed for comfort and style. The tour guides are known for their friendliness and knowledge, making your experience more engaging.

Once on board, you’ll start by getting acquainted with your captain, who often shares enjoyable stories about the marina’s history and wildlife. With a glass of wine in hand—either red or white—the atmosphere is set for a relaxed cruise. As you glide through the calm waters, you’ll enjoy the gentle breeze and panoramic views of Marina del Rey, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach. The water is often dotted with ships, sailboats, and—if luck is on your side—sea lions basking on the docks or swimming nearby.

The highlight? Watching the sea lions, often seen lounging in the jetties or popping up playfully along the shoreline. Multiple reviews praise the captain for his insights, with one reviewer describing the trip as “peaceful, relaxed, and informative,” and noting how “great impressions and great information” made it special. The captain’s knowledge and engaging personality seem to turn a simple boat ride into a memorable story, full of fun facts about the area and marine life.

As the boat moves toward sunset, the sky often paints a beautiful backdrop of oranges and pinks. This is the perfect moment to savor your curated charcuterie board, which pairs beautifully with the included wines. The wine selection, combined with artisanal cheeses and cured meats, elevates the experience—making it feel more like a private dining experience on the water.

Throughout the cruise, the captain might point out landmarks or share brief stories about local attractions, giving you some context to the stunning scenery. If you’ve booked a private trip, you’ll enjoy a tailored experience, possibly with special add-ons like flowers, desserts, or even a surprise dinner, depending on your preferences.

The Food & Drinks: Elevating the Experience

The included wine and small charcuterie board are thoughtfully curated to match the relaxed luxury vibe. Multiple reviews commend the high quality of the offerings, with one guest noting, “The food and drink were amazing,” and another emphasizing how the music set a perfect mood. Many travelers appreciate the option to add more gourmet options, such as a large charcuterie board or even sushi and desserts, which can turn a simple cruise into a celebration.

If you opt for the add-ons, they can transform the trip into a special occasion—whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a romantic escape. Imagine sipping wine while watching sea lions or the sunset, with a beautifully arranged cake or flowers as a surprise—these small touches make a big difference.

Wildlife & Scenery: Nature’s Best

What sets this cruise apart is the chance to see local wildlife in their natural habitat. Sea lions are the main attraction, and the reviews repeatedly mention how impressive and playful they are. One reviewer even described the jetty full of sea lions as “impressive,” and noted that the captain is very knowledgeable about the area’s marine life.

Besides the sea lions, you’ll enjoy the views of boats, seaports, and the sprawling marina. The water activities around Marina del Rey are lively but peaceful here, providing a calm, scenic backdrop for your relaxing cruise. The experience is not just about sightseeing but about appreciating the serenity of being on the water.

Practical Considerations: What to Know Before You Go

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a perfect length for a leisurely escape without feeling rushed. It’s available in the morning, afternoon, or evening—allowing you to pick a time that fits your schedule and preferred lighting for photos. The boat accommodates private groups, making it a personalized experience, especially if you’re celebrating something special.

The price of $149 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions—wine, cheese, a knowledgeable captain, and a luxurious boat. When you factor in the high quality of food and the intimate setting, it offers solid value for a memorable outing.

A few logistical points: parking is available nearby, with street parking being free and public parking costing around $6. Valet parking is also an option for $59, or you might get validation with certain add-ons. Remember, there’s a no shoe policy on the boat, and outside food or beverages aren’t allowed unless you book a private trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Reviews: What Participants Say

The glowing reviews highlight the tour’s strengths: knowledgeable and charismatic guides, stunning sights, and delicious food. One guest from Austria called it “a very nice, peaceful, and relaxed trip,” praising the captain’s expertise. Another from Germany appreciated how “Jerry was very well-informed and entertaining,” and noted the “impressive ships and a jetty full of sea lions.”

Many reviews emphasize the personalized experience—with one guest mentioning how the captain went above and beyond, upgrading their trip to a private tour and adding special touches like photography. The consistent praise for the captain’s storytelling and hospitality makes clear that this tour isn’t just about the scenery, but also about the warmth and personality of the crew.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Experience for You?

This luxury boat cruise in Marina del Rey offers a quiet, refined way to enjoy Los Angeles’ beautiful water and wildlife. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, good company, and quality food and drink. If you’re after a quick but memorable escape that combines scenic beauty with a touch of sophistication, this cruise hits the mark.

Expect a calm, intimate atmosphere where the captain’s stories and the chance to see sea lions bring the experience to life. The optional add-ons allow for customization, making it a flexible choice for celebrating a special day or just treating yourself to a unique outing on the water.

For those looking for a lively, lengthy tour or a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit short, but for a relaxed, scenic, and upscale experience, it’s hard to beat. With many satisfied guests raving about the combination of scenery, wildlife, and fine fare, this cruise is a delightful way to see Marina del Rey from a different perspective—on elegant waters with good wine and even better company.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short escape without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price of $149 per person includes the boat tour, an experienced captain, a bottle of red or white wine, and a small charcuterie board.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, there are several add-on options available at checkout, such as larger charcuterie boards, surprise dinners, birthday cakes, flowers, and photos.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, street parking is free, and public parking costs around $6. Valet parking can be arranged for $59, with validation possibly available with certain add-ons.

What should I wear?
Since there’s a no shoe policy, comfortable, casual clothing works best. Check the weather and consider bringing a light jacket for evening cruises.

Are there private group options?
Yes, private group bookings are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I bring outside food or beverages?
Outside food or drinks are generally not allowed unless you book a private trip.

What wildlife might I see?
Sea lions are the main attraction, often seen lounging on docks. The captain will likely point out other interesting marine life along the way.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the tour is relaxed and scenic, it’s best for older children or teenagers who can appreciate the wildlife and scenery without the need for active participation.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can book through GetYourGuide or the provider’s website, with options to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: