Imagine drifting along the calm waters of Marina del Rey with the gentle sway of a boat beneath your feet, your favorite song echoing in the background, and the stunning coastline unfolding around you. For just $149 per person, this 2 to 3-hour cruise offers a relaxed yet lively way to see Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Malibu from a unique vantage point. Led by a friendly captain who doubles as a DJ and guide, this cruise combines scenic beauty with fun and entertainment—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable way to enjoy LA’s coast.
What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the lively karaoke party on the water, where you can sing along or just enjoy the performances. Second, the chance to see local marine life like sealions and pelicans, which adds a wild element to the trip. It’s a small, intimate group setting that feels more like a party with friends than a typical sightseeing tour. A small consideration? The tour is not suitable for children under 8, which might be a bummer if you’re traveling with families. Overall, it’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or anyone who loves a mix of scenic views and lively entertainment.
Key Points
- Scenic Views: Experience stunning coastline vistas of Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Malibu, and Marina del Rey.
 - Unique Entertainment: Enjoy live karaoke with a wide selection of music, led by a captain who’s also a talented DJ.
 - Wildlife Encounters: Watch for local sealions and pelicans, making the trip engaging for animal lovers.
 - Flexible Options: Add on wine, charcuterie, dinner, or other extras to customize your experience.
 - Ideal for Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, bachelorette parties, or just a fun night out with friends.
 - Practical Details: The tour lasts 2-3 hours, with multiple departure times and options to reserve and pay later.
 
An Authentic and Lively Way to See LA’s Coastline

When we think about Los Angeles, most of us picture Hollywood, celebrities, and sprawling urban sights. But the coast offers a different kind of charm—calm waters, sandy beaches, and wildlife. This boat cruise hits all those marks with ease, providing a relaxed yet lively way to experience LA’s famous shoreline.
The boat itself is described as cozy and beautiful, built with sustainability in mind—an eco-friendly touch that many travelers appreciate. The route takes you from Marina del Rey past Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Malibu, offering panoramic views that are hard to beat from land-based tours. The captain, often praised for his friendly demeanor and knowledge, guides you through the waterways, sharing insights about the sights and wildlife.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Santa Monica
What to Expect on the Boat
As you set sail, you’ll notice the thoughtful touches that make this tour special. Starting with the spectacular coastline views, the boat provides comfortable seating and plenty of unobstructed windows. The highlight is the karaoke party, where you can sing along to a curated playlist, or hire the DJ for a more professional sound. Reviewers have raved about the “Best karaoke entertainment in Los Angeles,” and it’s easy to see why—it’s fun for all ages and adds a spirited vibe.
You might also indulge in some carefully selected wine and charcuterie, which many guests find elevates the experience. If you’re celebrating a birthday or special event, there’s an option to add on personalized touches like cakes or flowers. Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but seals and pelicans are often spotted, delighting wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Itinerary Breakdown
The cruise typically begins at Marina del Rey, where you’ll meet your captain, usually near the benches behind Brizo Bar and Restaurant at 4360 Via Marina. The exact meeting point may vary depending on your booking, so it’s important to text your guide upon arrival. Once on board, the boat departs and heads toward Venice Beach, enjoying views of the iconic boardwalk and surfers in the distance.
From there, the route continues past Santa Monica Pier—an iconic sight—before moving further west toward Malibu. The coastlines are especially striking during sunset cruises, which many find particularly romantic and picturesque. Along the way, wildlife habitats are visible, and seals may pop up to say hello, adding a touch of nature to your urban adventure.
Scenic Highlights
- Venice Beach: Famous for its colorful boardwalk and lively street performers, Venice is a vibrant start to your cruise.
 - Santa Monica: The historic pier and bustling beach scene make for excellent photo opportunities.
 - Malibu: Known for its celebrity homes and dramatic coastlines, Malibu offers a more upscale and rugged view of LA’s shoreline.
 - Wildlife Encounters: Sealions and pelicans are among the marine animals that often make an appearance, providing a natural spectacle.
 
Entertainment and Add-Ons: Customizing Your Experience

The real magic of this cruise is the blend of sightseeing with entertainment. The karaoke is the star—guests have described it as “super cool” and “the best part of the cruise.” Whether you’re a confident singer or prefer to cheer for others, it’s all about having fun in a relaxed environment.
Beyond singing, you can enhance your cruise with a variety of add-ons—from wine, surprise dinners, and large charcuterie boards to birthday cakes and sushi. These are not included in the base price but available as options to make your trip even more special. Many reviews mention the quality of snacks and drinks, and how they contribute to a festive, celebratory atmosphere.
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Santa Monica
Practical Information
This cruise lasts between 2 to 3 hours, with multiple departure times available—morning, afternoon, or evening—so you can choose whatever fits your schedule. Booking is flexible: you can reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan. The tour is primarily in English and conducted in small groups, which keeps things intimate and personal.
Considerations and Tips
One thing to note: children under eight are not permitted, so it’s best suited for families with older kids, couples, or groups of friends. Parking can be a bit of a puzzle—public parking costs $6 for the day nearby, but street parking is free if you’re lucky. Hotel valet is available but costly at around $50. Arrive a few minutes early, as late arrivals are marked as no-shows with no refunds.
The crew emphasizes tipping—around 20% is standard in California service industries—and the captain, Shaun, is frequently praised for his friendly, knowledgeable vibe. Remember, gratuity is not included in the base price.
The Authentic Value of the Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruise

What sets this tour apart is its combination of scenic beauty, lively entertainment, and wildlife sightings—all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s well-suited for celebrations, casual outings, or anyone wanting a different perspective on LA’s famous coastlines. The live karaoke, paired with wine and snacks, makes it feel like a mini party on the water, while the wildlife and stunning scenery keep it grounded in authentic nature.
For those who love interactive experiences, this cruise offers plenty of chances to sing, dance, and enjoy quality food and drinks. The small group setting ensures a personal touch, and the flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit into most itineraries.
While it’s a bit pricey compared to some land-based tours, the value lies in its exclusivity, entertainment, and scenic views. It’s a memorable way to spend a few hours, especially if you appreciate a laid-back vibe with a touch of fun and glamour.
FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 8 years old are not allowed, so it’s better suited for teens and older.
How long does the cruise last?
Between 2 and 3 hours, with options for morning, afternoon, or evening departures.
What should I bring?
Bring your singing voice if you like, and consider adding on wine or food if you want to indulge. Arrive a few minutes early, and have your phone ready for photos—professional advice is included!
Where do I meet the boat?
Next to 4360 Via Marina, Marina del Rey, behind Brizo Bar and Restaurant. Text your captain when ready to board.
Is parking easy?
Parking nearby costs around $6 at public lots, or you can find street parking for free if you’re lucky. Hotel valet is available but expensive.
Can I customize the experience?
Yes, with a variety of add-ons like wine, dinner, cakes, flowers, and photo packages, you can tailor your cruise.
What’s the main highlight?
The karaoke party on the water, combined with stunning coastline views and wildlife sightings, makes for a lively, memorable trip.
Are gratuities included?
No, gratuity is recommended at about 20%, mostly for good service from the crew and captain.
Final Thoughts

This Venice Beach and Malibu boat cruise blends the best of LA’s scenic coastlines with lively entertainment and wildlife encounters—creating a fun, engaging experience that appeals to a wide audience. It’s especially perfect if you’re looking for a celebration or something interactive and memorable. The small-group atmosphere and optional add-ons give it a premium feel without sacrificing authenticity.
If you love beautiful views, good music, and a chance to relax and unwind on the water, this cruise is well worth the price. It’s a refreshing way to see LA from a different perspective, with plenty of opportunities to create fun memories and snap stunning photos.
For travelers who want more than just sightseeing—who crave a bit of celebration, music, and nature—this boat cruise offers a lively, authentic slice of Los Angeles life that you won’t forget.
###
You can check availability for your dates here:More Wine Tours in Santa Monica
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Santa Monica
- Los Angeles Premier Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey
 - Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise from Marina del Rey
 - Romantic-Surprise Dinner-Wine & Cheese or Sushi Boat Cruise
 - Ocean View On A Yacht In Marina Del Rey
 - 4 hours Sailboat Tour for 2 people along the Los Angeles Coastline
 - Marina Del Rey Luxury Yacht Experience
 
More Tour Reviews in Santa Monica
More Santa Monica experiences we've covered
- Private Full Day LA Tour from Santa Monica
 - Flavors of Venice Beach Food Tour By Junket
 - Santa Monica Walking Photo Class
 - Private Photoshoot on the Beaches of Los Angeles
 - Private Los Angeles Photoshoot in Sunny Santa Monica with Personal Photographer
 - Half Day Best of Los Angeles Tour from Santa Monica
 - Couples Shoot
 - Los Angeles Premier Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey
 - Santa Monica & Venice Bike Tour
 - Santa Monica and Venice Beach Segway Tour
 - Santa Monica Holiday Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour
 - Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise from Marina del Rey
 
