Los Angeles: Redondo Beach Glass Bottom Boat Cruise

Experience the Underwater World with Redondo Beach’s Glass Bottom Boat Cruise

Cruising around Redondo Beach on a glass bottom boat is a surprisingly charming way to spend about 45 minutes soaking up the coastal scenery and marveling at the ocean’s vibrant life. For just $33 per person, you’ll step aboard a boat built in 1995, equipped with a large underwater viewing chamber—perfect for those who prefer to stay dry but still want a close-up look at marine creatures. The cruise is designed to be fun and educational, with a friendly crew who knows their harbor and the wildlife that calls it home.

Two aspects really make this experience shine. First, the underwater viewing chamber offers an uninterrupted look at a variety of fish swimming right beneath your feet—an experience that captivates kids and adults alike. Second, the above-deck portion provides picturesque views of the California coastline, where you might spot sea lions lounging or birds soaring overhead.

A possible consideration is that the boat lacks onboard toilets, so if you’re sensitive to that, plan accordingly before boarding. Also, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, which might exclude some travelers. Still, if you’re traveling with children, family groups, or simply want a relaxed, informative outing, this cruise is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for anyone interested in marine life, scenic photography, or a gentle, engaging adventure suitable for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable and Concise: A 45-minute tour at $33 offers good value for a quick, engaging experience.
• Underwater Views: The glass bottom chamber lets you see colorful fish and marine wildlife up close without getting wet.
• Above and Below: Combines underwater viewing with scenic vistas of the California coast and sea lions.
• Family Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults, with life jackets provided and an educational, fun atmosphere.
• No Restroom on Board: Be prepared for the lack of onboard facilities; use the bathrooms on the nearby boardwalk beforehand.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users.

A Closer Look at This Redondo Beach Experience

When we arrive at the International Boardwalk, the first thing you’ll notice is the lively surroundings—a mix of casual eateries, souvenir shops, and energetic crowds. The boat itself is easy to spot, with its inviting blue ticket shack conveniently located by the pedal boat rentals. The check-in process is straightforward, with a friendly crew ready to guide you through your 45-minute ocean outing.

The boarding process is quick, and once on board, the real magic begins. The glass bottom chamber is the star of this cruise. As you sit on the benches beside the large viewing windows, you’ll be amazed at how close the fish and marine creatures come. One review notes, “We saw seals and fish up close,” highlighting how engaging this part really is. The clear panels provide an unobstructed view, so you can observe colorful schools of fish, curious sea lions, and even some seabirds circling above.

While below deck, the crew—well-versed in local wildlife—often shares fascinating facts, making it an educational trip as well as an entertaining one. We appreciated the knowledgeable guides, who enhance the experience with their stories and tips for spotting wildlife from the deck. The breezy deck on top of the boat offers a different perspective—perfect for photographs and just enjoying the salt air. Many travelers, including those from the UK and Thailand, have commented on how “great” and “enjoyable” the trip was, with one reviewer mentioning that they “made core memories right here.”

The scenic part of the cruise also provides opportunities to see California’s coast, including the famous sea lions lounging on rocks and the bustling activity of the harbor. With live commentary, you’ll learn about the local environment, adding context to what you see. It’s these small details that make the cruise feel authentic and memorable.

One potential downside is that the boat has no onboard toilets, which might be inconvenient for some, especially children. We recommend using the bathrooms on the boardwalk beforehand to avoid discomfort. Also, the boat’s lack of wheelchair access might limit participation for some travelers, so it’s worth checking if accessibility is a concern.

This experience suits families with kids, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxing, scenic outing. It’s especially ideal if you’re in Los Angeles for a quick, affordable activity that delivers both fun and education without the hassle of long waits or expensive tickets.

Why This Cruise Offers Genuine Value

The $33 price tag might seem modest for a boat trip, but it’s important to look at what you’re getting. The 45-minute duration is enough to feel like a substantial outing—without dragging on—and provides plenty of time to enjoy different views and wildlife sightings. The included life jackets for children under 90 pounds add a layer of safety, making it suitable for young travelers.

What truly stands out is the combination of underwater and abovewater experiences. The underwater viewing chamber gives a sense of being submerged in the ocean, watching vibrant fish and marine life glide past in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, the above-deck perspective allows you to soak in the sweeping vistas of the California coast, spotting sea lions and other wildlife while feeling the ocean breeze.

The crew’s local knowledge and friendly demeanor are frequently praised, transforming a simple boat ride into an educational adventure. With live English commentary, you’ll learn about the local ecosystem—something that makes the trip both entertaining and informative, especially for curious kids or first-time visitors.

While some travelers mention that there are no bathrooms onboard, the proximity of the bathrooms on the nearby boardwalk makes this less of a concern. The short duration keeps the trip compact and manageable, particularly for families with young children or elderly travelers.

In terms of value for money, this cruise delivers a lot: a chance to see marine life up close, enjoy scenic views, and step out onto the water without a hefty price tag or a full-day commitment.

A Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary and Experience

Upon arrival at the International Boardwalk, you’ll gather at the blue ticket shack, where friendly staff will check your reservation and give you safety instructions. After a quick walkthrough, you’ll board the boat, which comfortably fits a modest group, ensuring everyone gets a good view.

Once underway, the crew’s introduction sets the tone for a relaxed trip. They’ll introduce the boat’s features, especially the downward-facing viewing chamber. Expect to spend roughly half the trip below deck, where large windows allow for a close-up view of fish and seabirds. The clarity of the glass is such that even the most casual observer will be awestruck by the marine activity.

According to reviews, the marine wildlife seen includes seals, sea lions, and schools of colorful fish. The marine environment around Redondo Beach is lively, and the boat’s design ensures good views for everyone, regardless of where they sit. Kids often find the fish mesmerizing—one reviewer described it as being “up close” with the animals, which is quite an experience, especially for those who don’t often get to see marine life so intimately.

The above-deck portion provides excellent opportunities for photos and simply soaking in the coastal scenery. You might spot the famous California sea lions basking on rocks or hear the sounds of seabirds overhead. The breeze helps keep everyone cool, and the panoramic views are ideal for capturing the essence of the Southern California coast.

The return leg of the cruise offers a chance to relax, chat with other travelers, and reflect on what you’ve seen. Many reviews express how “making core memories” is a common theme, emphasizing the trip’s suitability for family bonding and photo ops.

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Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early to allow time for parking, bathroom visits, and settling in.
• Bring your own snacks or drinks if desired, as food and beverages are not included.
• Use the bathrooms on the boardwalk before boarding, since there are none onboard.
• Dress comfortably for the weather—layers are best because it can be breezy on the water.
• If you’re sensitive to motion, be aware the boat is relatively small, but the ride is usually smooth.
• Remember that children under 90 pounds must wear a life jacket; these are provided.
• For those concerned about accessibility, note that the boat is not wheelchair friendly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for families with children, who will be captivated by the underwater sights and the chance to see seals and sea lions. It’s also ideal for nature lovers eager to learn about local marine ecosystems, or anyone wanting a short, scenic escape from the city that’s both affordable and memorable.

Travelers who enjoy photography will appreciate the chance to capture marine wildlife and coastal landscapes, especially with the breezy, open deck. The experience is simple but well-organized, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outing with plenty of opportunities for fun and education.

The Sum Up

The Redondo Beach Glass Bottom Boat Cruise offers an authentic, engaging way to explore California’s coastal waters without straining your budget or schedules. The combination of underwater views and scenic vistas makes it rewarding for both casual observers and wildlife enthusiasts. The knowledgeable crew, colorful marine life, and easy, compact format ensure you’ll leave with a sense of connection to this lively harbor environment.

While it’s not suited for wheelchair users or those needing onboard facilities, the overall value and experience are hard to match in such a short, affordable trip. Whether you’re in Los Angeles for a quick family outing or simply looking to enjoy some peaceful time on the water, this cruise provides a genuine glimpse into the underwater world of Redondo Beach.

If you cherish simple, authentic experiences that combine nature, scenery, and a touch of adventure, this cruise should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for this cruise?
This experience is suitable for all ages, especially since children under 90 pounds are required to wear life jackets, which are provided.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise typically lasts around 45 minutes, offering a compact but satisfying glimpse of marine life and coastal views.

Are food and drinks available onboard?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can bring your own if you wish.

Are there bathroom facilities onboard?
No, there are no toilets on the boat, so it’s recommended to use the bathrooms on the nearby boardwalk before boarding.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably, bring layers for wind, and bring snacks or drinks if desired, keeping in mind that the trip is short and facilities are limited.

In short, this glass bottom boat cruise is a delightful, practical way to enjoy the marine environment of Redondo Beach, especially if you’re after a family-friendly, affordable, and scenic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: