Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Dinner Charcuterie or Sushi

Plopping down $109 per person for a boat cruise in the gorgeous Marina Del Rey might sound like a splurge, but after reading dozens of glowing reviews, it’s clear this experience offers notable value. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a romantic date, or just craving a unique water adventure, this cruise delivers a relaxing, scenic escape that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the details.

What we love about this tour is the chance to glide quietly through one of Los Angeles’ most stunning marinas on eco-friendly, fully electric boats. You’ll enjoy the calming sounds of water, sights of marine life, and a chance to unwind away from the city hustle. Plus, the options for wine, charcuterie, or sushi turn this cruise into a genuinely special dining experience. A potential drawback? The price point might seem high for some, especially if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget, but the inclusions and quality of experience tend to justify it.

This experience works best for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a private, intimate water adventure with a touch of luxury. If you’re after a memorable, personalized outing that combines scenic beauty with gourmet treats, this cruise might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Experience: Fully electric, noise-free boats provide a peaceful, environmentally conscious cruise.
• Flexible Duration: Options for 1-hour or 2-hour tours give you flexibility based on your schedule.
• Inclusions Matter: Two glasses of wine, a carefully curated charcuterie, and the option for sushi or other add-ons make this a well-rounded outing.
• Expert Captain: Visitors consistently praise Captain Shaun’s knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to help with photos and local tips.
• Great Value: Reviews highlight the quality of food, scenic views, and personalized service for the price.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Many reviews mention birthdays, anniversaries, and romantic occasions, making it clear this tour excels as a special event setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The core of this tour is a relaxing boat ride through Marina Del Rey, the largest man-made marina in the United States, with a reputation for stunning views and lively marine life. The boats are eco-friendly, fully electric, and virtually silent, which means you’ll really hear the gentle lapping of water and the occasional seagull instead of engine noise. This feature makes it especially appealing for those seeking a tranquil escape.

The boats can comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests across two vessels, meaning you’ll likely be part of a small group or private charter. This intimate setting is ideal for couples or small parties. The meeting point can vary depending on the tour option, so travelers should confirm details after booking.

Once onboard, the experienced captain sets the tone with friendly chatter, local knowledge, and a knack for finding the best spots to admire the scenery. Many reviews emphasize Captain Shaun’s personable approach — “Shaun was absolutely amazing,” notes Fiona, “He even helped us take photos and repositioned the boat for better lighting.” Expect to enjoy a playlist of your favorite tunes, with a wide selection of music available.

What’s Included

The one-hour tour offers a quick dose of LA’s marina sights, a guided commentary, two glasses of wine or soft drinks, and the opportunity to soak in the sunset or daytime views. For those opting for the two-hour cruise, the experience deepens with more water time, more wine (two glasses per guest), and curated food options, such as hand-crafted charcuterie with seasonal fruits, cheese, crackers, and salami. The added value here is not just the food but the attention to presentation and quality, with reviews consistently praising the charcuterie as “delicious” and “beautifully presented.”

Optional add-ons like sushi, birthday cakes, or other treats can be chosen at checkout, adding a personalized touch to your outing. Many travelers see this cruise as ideal for romantic dinners, birthdays, anniversaries, or even small corporate gatherings — the vessel’s cozy, elegant atmosphere lends itself well to celebrations.

What to Expect at Each Stage

As the boat departs, you’ll feel the gentle sway of the water and hear its soothing sounds. The captain takes you around key sights in Marina Del Rey, pointing out interesting landmarks and marine life. Several reviews praise the chance to spot dolphins and sea lions, which is quite common during the cruise. “We saw dolphins — it was magical,” recalls Fiona, echoing the sentiment of many.

Sunset cruises are particularly praised, with the sky turning oranges and pinks, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. The calm waters reflect the colors beautifully, and many guests mention how the music and lighting set a romantic mood. One reviewer summed it up: “Captain Shaun played a chill playlist, and the sunset was gorgeous. It was the perfect way to spend an evening.”

The Allure of the Food and Drink

The wine selection typically includes two glasses per guest, with options for soft drinks as well. The charcuterie boards are described as “top quality,” with seasonal fruits and vegetables, crackers, cheese, and salami. Many reviewers consider the food a highlight, saying it elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable dinner date. Sushis and other add-ons are available separately, allowing for customization.

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Flexibility and Convenience

The tour’s timing options—morning, afternoon, or evening—allow you to match your plans. The reservation process is straightforward, with the perk of “reserve now, pay later,” offering flexibility with your travel schedule. It’s worth noting that parking is not included, so plan accordingly.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

An impressive average rating of 5/5 from 80 reviews underscores the overall satisfaction. Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of Captain Shaun, the stunning scenery, and the excellent quality of food and wine. Many mention how special and romantic the experience felt, with one noting, “This boat cruise was very intimate and perfect for a date night.” The consistency of glowing feedback makes it clear this experience is a solid choice for those seeking a calm, scenic, and gourmet water adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This cruise is an excellent choice for couples celebrating anniversaries or birthdays, thanks to its cozy, romantic setting and attentive service. It’s equally suited for small groups wanting a private outing with a touch of luxury. If you’re looking for stunning marina views, marine wildlife sightings, and a well-curated food and wine experience without the noise of engines, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer an activity with more action or a larger group, you might find other options more suitable. Also, those with mobility concerns should note that it’s not wheelchair accessible, and very young children under one year old might not be ideal for the water environment.

In essence, this cruise offers a peaceful, scenic escape with memorable food, wine, and personal service—perfect for those wanting a special moment on the water in Los Angeles.

FAQs

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Parking is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to find nearby street parking or a lot. Confirm the exact meeting location after booking for specific parking details.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
No, outside alcohol and drugs are not permitted. However, you can choose from the available wine, soft drinks, and optional add-ons like charcuterie or sushi at checkout.

How long does the tour last?
Tour durations are typically 1 to 2 hours, with options to suit your schedule and preference for a shorter or longer experience.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider the weather—layers work well, especially if you plan a sunset cruise. Bring a jacket if it’s cool in the evening.

Can I book for a large group?
The boats can accommodate up to 20 people across two vessels, making it suitable for small private groups or special celebrations.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 1 year are not recommended. The tour is more suited for adults or those comfortable on small boats, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour eco-friendly?
The boats are fully electric, meaning they produce no engine noise or pollution, making for a peaceful and environmentally considerate cruise.

In the end, this boat cruise in Marina Del Rey offers more than just a scenic ride — it’s a carefully curated experience that combines comfort, natural beauty, and personal touches. Whether you’re celebrating love, marking a special occasion, or simply seeking a relaxing water escape, it’s a solid choice that leaves most guests smiling and already planning their next trip back.

You can check availability for your dates here: