Marina Del Rey: Sunset Cruise with Dinner

Starting at Fisherman’s Village in Marina del Rey, this 2.5-hour evening cruise offers a chance to enjoy Los Angeles from the water while indulging in a chef-prepared dinner and relaxing music. Priced at $132 per person, it’s an experience that combines elegant dining with scenic views, all set against the backdrop of the sunset.

What we love about this cruise is the opportunity to sail beneath the sunset, soaking in the changing hues over the harbor, and the gourmet plated dinner featuring seasonal fare—something quite different from the usual “grab-and-go” boat fare. The live DJ entertainment adds a lively, modern vibe to the evening, making it suitable for couples, celebrating birthdays, or anyone wanting a special night on the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that access to the outer decks is only via stairs, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues. Also, since the trip depends on tides, there’s a chance it might be canceled or rescheduled if water levels are low, as some travelers have experienced. Still, the overall vibe and views tend to make this a worthwhile outing for most.

If you’re craving a combination of fine dining, harbor views, and a touch of fun with music, this cruise is likely to suit you well—especially if you enjoy a relaxed, upscale atmosphere that’s perfect for marking a special occasion.

Key Points

• Scenic Sunset Views: Sail beneath the changing sky, witnessing iconic harbor landmarks and the sunset’s glow.
• Gourmet Dining: Enjoy a chef-prepared, plated meal featuring seasonal ingredients, with options that cater to various tastes.
• Live Entertainment: The DJ adds a lively, contemporary feel—great for dancing or just relaxing with background music.
• Reserved Seating: Ensures you’re comfortably seated while soaking in the harbor views.
• Simple Extras: Unlimited coffee, tea, and water are included, with additional beverages available for purchase.
• Variable Conditions: Cruise depends on tide levels and weather, which might affect scheduled departures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

Imagine stepping aboard at Fisherman’s Village, a lively marina filled with shops and eateries, and then setting sail into the Los Angeles evening. The open-air decks are the best spots for the sweeping views of the harbor, but indoor spaces provide a cozy alternative if the weather turns. We loved the way the sunset cast warm, changing colors across the water, giving every passenger a perfect photo opportunity.

The dinner itself is well worth mentioning. It’s a plated, chef-prepared meal that includes a variety of options—ranging from pan-seared chicken and smoked fish to a hearty za’atar flat iron steak, and a seasonal potato gnocchi for vegetarians or those seeking lighter fare. The menu offers local ingredients and thoughtful seasoning, making it more than just a simple boat buffet. Several reviews highlighted how much they appreciated the delicious food—one guest from France mentioned, “everything was perfect,” while others found the dinner to be tasty and satisfying.

The music played by the DJ is a highlight for many. It creates a lively yet relaxed ambiance, perfect for conversation or a bit of dancing. We noticed that the DJ played all your favorite hits, which kept the energy upbeat through the evening.

Harbor views are another major plus. You’ll see landmarks like Mariner’s Mile and Balboa Peninsula, which add visual interest to your cruise. The scenic backdrop encourages taking photos, especially as the sun dips lower, casting the water in golden hues. One traveler from the U.S. described it as a “wonderful view,” emphasizing how striking the scenery can be.

However, some travelers have faced challenges. A few reviews mentioned that the boat never left the dock due to low tide or weather conditions, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a sailing experience. The cruise provider does offer full refunds or rescheduling if this occurs, but it’s something to keep in mind if your schedule is tight.

Another point to consider: access to outer decks is stair-only, which may be restrictive for those with mobility issues. The dress code is flexible but leans toward casual to dressy; comfortable shoes are advisable, especially if you plan to venture outside.

This cruise appeals most to couples celebrating a romantic evening, groups of friends, or anyone seeking an upscale, relaxed experience with beautiful views and good food. Families with children over the age of 3 are welcome, but very young children might find the movement or stairs a challenge.

Is This the Right Experience for You?

If you cherish scenic harbor vistas at sunset and want to pair that with gourmet food and lively music, this cruise hits those marks well. It’s a good choice for special occasions, romantic nights, or simply a different way to enjoy Los Angeles’ waterscape. The reserved seating and included drinks also add value, especially since many similar experiences charge extra for drinks or upgrades.

For those seeking a more active sailing experience, or who prefer more extensive sightseeing of sights beyond the harbor, this might not be ideal. Also, if you have mobility constraints, it’s worth considering the deck access limitations.

Practical Considerations

• Departure Location: Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey. Parking is straightforward—pay stations are located throughout the lot, with rates between $2 and $8 depending on the duration.
• Timing: Usually in the evening, so you’ll catch the sunset at just the right moment.
• Weather: Check forecast and be prepared with a jacket, especially after sunset, as it can get chilly.
• Reservations: It’s advisable to reserve in advance, especially during peak times, and to note that only one reservation per group guarantees seating together.
• Child Policy: Kids under 3 can join for free, but you must select the “kids’ ticket” during booking.

Summary: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is perfect for those who want a romantic, relaxing experience with scenic harbor views and a delicious dinner. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate a special night or enjoy a change of scenery from land-based sightseeing. The live DJ and reserved seating make it feel both lively and comfortable.

If you’re okay with the possibility of weather-related cancellations and don’t mind climbing stairs to the outer decks, this cruise offers good value for the price. It’s ideal for couples, celebrating milestones, or anyone wanting to experience Marina del Rey from a different perspective.

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FAQs

Can I cancel my reservation if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexible planning.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children aged 3 and under can join for free, but make sure to select the child’s ticket when booking. Keep in mind, access to the decks is stairs-only.

What should I wear?
Casual to dressy attire is fine. Be prepared for cooler temperatures after sunset with a jacket or layers.

Will the boat sail if the tide is low?
Not always. If tides are too low, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled—full refunds or alternatives are offered if that happens.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water are included; additional beverages can be purchased onboard.

Where exactly does the cruise depart from?
From Fisherman’s Village, 13755 Fiji Way in Marina del Rey, a popular and accessible spot with ample parking.

To sum it up, the Marina del Rey Sunset Cruise with Dinner offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, good food, and lively music—an experience that’s perfect for celebrating a special evening or simply treating yourself to a memorable night on the water. While it’s not a full sailing adventure every time due to tide conditions, the views, cuisine, and ambiance tend to make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a relaxing, elegant cruise in Southern California. Whether you’re a romantic couple or a group looking for a fun outing, this cruise provides a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and entertainment.