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

Picture gliding across the calm waters of Marina del Rey in a sleek, well-appointed Duffy boat, with good wine, tasty cheese, and the company of playful sea lions. For around $149 per person, this 2-hour luxury boat tour offers a chance to see LA’s marine life up close while enjoying a relaxing cruise with plenty of gourmet touches. Led by a personable captain, this experience hits a sweet spot for those seeking a blend of luxury, wildlife, and scenic beauty.

What we particularly love about this tour is the quality of the guide and the atmosphere—the captain is not just in charge, but also friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories about the area. Plus, the wine and cheese pairing elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to a pleasurable culinary outing. The chance to spot playful sea lions lounging on the docks or swimming nearby adds a delightful wildlife element that makes this trip stand out.

One potential consideration is that the experience is limited to the marina and nearby waters, so if you’re expecting longer or more diverse water routes, this might not be the tour for you. However, for those wanting a cozy, intimate cruise with stunning views and gourmet snacks, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This cruise is ideal for romantic dates, anniversaries, birthdays, or small groups looking for a memorable and relaxed outing. If you enjoy wine, wildlife, and beautiful sunsets, and are okay with a shorter, 2-hour journey, you’ll find this tour to be well worth the price.

Key Points

• Intimate & Relaxing: A 2-hour, private boating experience in Marina del Rey.
• Wildlife Viewing: Get excellent views of playful sea lions and marine life.
• Gourmet Touches: Enjoy wine, cheese, and charcuterie aboard a luxurious Duffy boat.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Captains are friendly and share engaging insights about the area.
• Flexible Timing: Available morning, afternoon, and evening, allowing you to catch sunset or daylight views.
• Great for Celebrations: Perfect for romantic occasions, birthdays, or small group outings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting: Marina del Rey’s Calm Waters and Scenic Views

Starting at the meeting point behind Brizo Bar and Restaurant, your journey begins with a brief orientation before hopping aboard the Duffy boat. The marina itself is a hub of activity, with sleek yachts, colorful sailboats, and the occasional group of dolphins or sea lions. We loved the ease of access—no need for complicated transportation, just a short walk to the dock.

The boat itself is designed for comfort and style, with plenty of space to relax and take in the surroundings. No outside shoes are allowed, helping keep the vessel spotless, and the atmosphere is casual yet refined—perfect for unwinding. The boat is equipped with a wide selection of music, so you can choose tunes that set your mood, whether that’s smooth jazz or lively pop.

The Crew: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Passionate

Guests consistently rave about the captains, especially Shaun, who many reviews highlight as charismatic and well-informed. One guest noted, “Shaun was an amazing captain with a wealth of knowledge and with his charismatic personality and kind soul made it even more special.” The captains are more than just operators—they’re storytellers who add personality and insights that deepen your appreciation of Marina del Rey and Los Angeles.

Wildlife & Scenic Vistas: Encounters with Sea Lions and the LA Skyline

One of the biggest draws is wildlife spotting. Sea lions are often lounging on docks or swimming nearby, providing playful entertainment. As one reviewer put it, “Jerry was a very well-informed, entertaining captain and drove us through the large harbor with its impressive ships and a jetty full of sea lions.” Watching these creatures in their natural habitat is both amusing and endearing—a highlight for many guests.

The views of LA’s coastline are stunning, especially as the sun begins to dip, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The experience of sitting back with a glass of wine, watching the city skyline or the calm marina waters is truly relaxing and photograph-worthy.

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Gastronomy: Wine, Cheese, and Optional Add-ons

Included in the tour is a bottle of red or white wine and a small charcuterie to nibble on. The quality of the snacks and drinks consistently impresses guests. One reviewer mentioned, “The food and drink were amazing. The music really set the vibe.” Several guests appreciated the gourmet aspect, noting that the wine and cheese felt like a special treat rather than just casual snacks.

A variety of add-ons are available, such as larger charcuterie boards, surprise dinners, birthday cakes, sushi, and even flowers—perfect for special celebrations. While these are extra, they offer a way to customize your cruise to make it even more memorable.

Flexibility & Comfort

The tour usually runs morning, afternoon, and evening, allowing you to pick a time that suits your schedule—whether it’s catching the sunrise, sunset, or a leisurely afternoon. The private group option offers additional privacy for intimate celebrations or romantic getaways.

Since the duration is only 2 hours, it’s a manageable, no-fuss outing that provides a good balance of time and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of LA’s maritime charm without committing to a full day.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Price: At $149 per person, the experience offers good value considering the included wine, cheese, and personalized service.
• Duration: 2 hours is just enough to soak in the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.
• Meeting Point: Conveniently located behind Brizo Bar and Restaurant, with clear instructions to call your captain upon arrival.
• No shoes policy and restrictions on outside food or large bags help keep the boat tidy and comfortable for everyone.
• Tips: A gratuity of about 20% or $25 per passenger is suggested for excellent service.

Authentic Guest Feedback

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeability of the guides and the beautiful views. Comments like “Sean was great company, conversationalist and so much good information about the area,” highlight the personal touch that makes this tour stand out. The wildlife sightings are frequently mentioned as a highlight, with guests noting how playful and numerous the sea lions are.

Many reviews also mention how the wine and cheese added a touch of class, transforming a simple boat ride into a memorable celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a relaxing afternoon, guests feel that the experience offers both luxury and authenticity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a romantic outing or small celebration in LA, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or family groups wanting a peaceful, scenic, wildlife-rich experience with a gourmet twist. It’s especially appealing if you love wildlife, good wine, and stunning sunset views.

However, if you’re after longer excursions or multiple stops, this may feel a bit brief. The experience is primarily centered around the marina and nearby waters, so those wanting to explore further afield might want to look for larger boat tours.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, offering a relaxed yet comprehensive experience of Marina del Rey’s waters.

What’s included in the price?
You get a boat tour with an experienced captain, a bottle of wine (red or white), and a small charcuterie. Additional add-ons like larger boards or special dinners are available for extra.

Can I bring outside food or drinks?
Outside food and beverages are not allowed unless it’s a private booking, primarily to keep the boat tidy and the experience exclusive.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it’s a relaxing cruise with wine, it’s best suited for adults or older children.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially for sunset or evening cruises, which tend to fill up quickly.

What if I want a private experience?
Private group options are available, which can be tailored to your occasion, providing extra privacy and customization.

Is parking easy to find?
Parking costs about $6 on public lots, with street parking being free. Valet is available at $59, but validation or spending over $125 may reduce parking costs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This luxury boat tour in Marina del Rey offers a wonderfully balanced combination of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and gourmet indulgence. It’s a relaxing escape from the hustle of LA, perfect for those wanting a private, intimate experience with an emphasis on quality and personal service.

The knowledgeable guides, playful sea lions, and tasteful snacks create a memorable outing that appeals to travelers seeking a unique blend of nature, luxury, and local charm. While it’s a shorter trip, the quality of the experience makes it worthwhile—especially if you’re celebrating a special day or simply craving a peaceful way to see LA from the water.

If you value personalized service, stunning sunset views, and a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and photo ops, this cruise is hard to beat. It’s an authentic taste of LA’s coastal beauty wrapped in a refined, enjoyable package.

Summary

This 2-hour luxury boat tour in Marina del Rey provides a charming, intimate way to see LA’s waters and wildlife while indulging in wine and cheese. It’s perfect for romantic occasions, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy a laid-back yet lavish experience. With friendly guides, fantastic scenery, and playful sea lions, this cruise offers exceptional value for travelers wanting a memorable LA water adventure—without the fuss or long hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: