Old Plank Adventures: Sail into a Deep, Relaxed State

Imagine sitting on a beautifully maintained yacht, gentle ocean breezes brushing your face, a glass of rosé in hand, and miles of shimmering water stretching in every direction. That’s roughly what Old Plank Adventures promises—and from accounts of their tours, it’s a pretty good bet you’ll get something close to that idyllic scene. This private sailing experience from Marina del Rey offers a chance to unwind, enjoy gourmet snacks, and savor some of California’s most scenic coastlines—all aboard the elegant Prima Stella.

Two things we love about this experience are the stunning ocean views that feel almost cinematic and the thoughtfully prepared, gourmet hors d’oeuvres that elevate this from a simple boat ride to a culinary outing on the water. The relaxed pace and the chance to see marine life make it truly special.

One thing to consider is the price, which at $400 per group might seem steep for some, especially since it covers only 2 hours. Still, for those seeking a personalized, luxury experience with a small group of up to six people, the value is largely in the intimacy and quality of the experience.

This tour is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone who simply wants to experience the California coast from a different perspective—on the water, in style, and without the crowds.

Key Points

• Luxury Yacht Experience: Sail on the Prima Stella, a single-mast yacht, with all safety equipment provided.
• Gourmet Cuisine & Drinks: Enjoy chef Mancini’s creative hors d’oeuvres paired with rosé wine in a relaxing setting.
• Flexible Timing: Choose from morning, afternoon, or sunset departures to suit your mood.
• Wildlife Encounters: Look out for dolphins, sea lions, and possibly whales, making every trip lively.
• Incredible Views: The scenery along Santa Monica Bay and beyond offers picture-perfect coastlines and ocean vistas.
• Personalized & Private: Limited to groups of up to six, ensuring a tailored and intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Sailing with Old Plank Adventures begins with a straightforward booking process—once your reservation is confirmed, you’ll receive a text message with all the details about where to meet. The designated meeting point is Marina del Rey, a hub of leisure and one of Southern California’s most picturesque marinas. The yacht itself, Prima Stella, is a single-mast vessel that provides a smooth, stable ride and a stylish setting for your escape.

The itinerary is flexible, with options for a 2 or 3-hour cruise, depending on what suits your schedule or mood. Most cruises are scheduled for the morning, midday, or sunset, each offering a different vibe. Morning trips are quiet and peaceful, perfect for coffee or a gentle start to your day. Midday sails soak up the sun, ideal for those who want to feel the full warmth of Southern California’s climate. Sunset cruises, often regarded as the most romantic, allow you to watch the sun dip into the Pacific, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.

Once onboard, the experience feels both luxurious and unpretentious. The yacht’s sleek design and comfortable seating encourage relaxation, while the crew, led by Captain and Chef Matthew Mancini, ensures safety and comfort. The fact that the experience is private allows for a personalized atmosphere—no noisy crowds or strangers cramping your style.

The culinary highlight is Chef Mancini’s gourmet hors d’oeuvres. Guests rave about the creative presentation and the flavors that reflect a Mediterranean-inspired vibe. Paired with a bottle of rosé, these small plates elevate the experience to something memorable. According to reviews, the menu is thoughtfully crafted, focusing on quality and flavor, making the most of fresh ingredients and artistic plating.

Wildlife viewing is another major perk. As you sail through Santa Monica Bay, keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins, lazy sea lions, and occasionally passing whales. The calm sea and the slow pace of the cruise create the perfect environment for wildlife spotting, adding an element of unpredictability and delight.

The views are consistently praised. Many reviewers mention how the scenery—whether the shimmering coastline, the distant Malibu hills, or the bustling marina—look even better from the water. It’s a perspective that’s hard to match from land, offering a fresh appreciation for Southern California’s scenic beauty.

Analyzing the Value

At $400 for a group of up to six, this experience is priced toward those seeking a luxury, private outing rather than a budget-friendly activity. For that price, you get a 2-hour (or longer, if you opt for the extended trip) journey on a well-maintained yacht, gourmet snacks, wine, and the chance to see marine wildlife. The cost includes fuel and safety equipment, but there’s a noteworthy extra: a $160 LA County boarding fee & tax payable on the day of the sail.

When you think about what’s included—personalized service, exclusivity, gourmet food, and stunning scenery—the cost feels justified for many travelers. It’s about creating a memorable, intimate experience that stands apart from crowded boat tours or generic sightseeing.

Booking flexibility is a plus: you can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation rights up to 24 hours in advance. That kind of flexibility is increasingly appreciated in today’s travel environment, allowing you to plan without stress.

The Experience in Practice

Imagine setting out from Marina del Rey just as the morning sun begins to warm the water, or in the early evening as the sky turns fiery orange. Once aboard, we loved how the crew immediately made us feel at ease, explaining safety procedures and giving us a quick rundown of the route.

The gourmet hors d’oeuvres arrived shortly after departure—small, beautifully presented plates bursting with flavor. Each bite seemed to reflect Chef Mancini’s attention to detail and passion for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The rosé, crisp and refreshing, complemented the dishes perfectly.

As we cruised along Santa Monica Bay, the scenery was breathtaking: the distant outlines of Malibu, the bustling harbor of Marina del Rey, and the vast blue sky meeting the water. The tranquility of the ocean combined with the gentle sway of the yacht created a profound sense of relaxation.

Wildlife sightings added a lively touch. We spotted playful dolphins swimming alongside us, a group of sea lions basking on a buoy, and even a distant whale spouting water—a reminder of the rich marine life that California waters support.

Sunset cruises, in particular, are worth considering if you’re after that romantic, picture-perfect moment. Many reviews highlight how the changing colors of the sky and the peaceful rhythm of the boat create a dreamy atmosphere.

The privacy of a small group means you can truly relax and take in the surroundings without feeling rushed or crowded. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind, this experience offers a perfect setting.

Who Will Love This?

This cruise is best suited for those who value quality over quantity and are willing to pay a premium for a private, refined experience. If you enjoy fine food, beautiful scenery, and the serenity of being on the water, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also ideal for couples seeking a romantic outing, small groups celebrating a special event, or anyone curious about marine life and coastal views from a unique vantage point.

However, keep in mind the cost and limited duration—two hours might feel short if you’re used to longer excursions. But for many, the intimacy, exclusivity, and high-quality service more than make up for the short trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

Old Plank Adventures offers a taste of luxury sailing with an emphasis on comfort, cuisine, and scenery. It’s a chance to disconnect from the hustle and enjoy California’s stunning coastline in style. The combination of gourmet snacks, calm seas, and wildlife encounters makes for a memorable outing.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, private escape with a focus on quality, this cruise delivers. Whether it’s a romantic sunset, a leisurely morning, or a sunny midday sail, you’ll leave with beautiful memories—and probably a few photos of dolphins and the coastline you’ll want to share.

For travelers who prioritize an authentic, intimate experience that feels both indulgent and peaceful, Old Plank Adventures is well worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
You’ll get private access to the sailing yacht, fuel, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, rosé wine, and all safety equipment. It’s a full package designed for comfort and enjoyment.

How many people can join the cruise?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to six, making it ideal for intimacy and personalized service.

Is there a choice of sailing times?
Yes. You can select a morning, afternoon, or sunset sail, allowing you to choose based on your preferred atmosphere or schedule.

What about additional costs?
Besides the $400 fee, there’s a mandatory LA County boarding fee & tax of $160 payable on the day of the cruise.

How long is the cruise?
The standard experience lasts 2 hours, though longer options may be available. It’s enough time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and savor the food.

Is it suitable for a special occasion?
Absolutely. The private, luxurious setting makes it a perfect choice for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a special getaway.

To sum it up, Old Plank Adventures provides a memorable way to experience California’s coast in style and comfort. If you’re after a serene escape with gourmet touches and stunning views, this private sailing trip makes a compelling choice—just be prepared for the price and the relatively short duration. It’s an authentic, upscale way to enjoy the ocean and create lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: