Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner

An Intimate Coastal Escape: Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner

Imagine drifting peacefully through the calm waters of Marina del Rey aboard a sleek Electric Duffy Cruiser, with the LA skyline shimmering in the distance. For just $149 per person, you can enjoy a two-hour cruise designed for romance, celebration, or simply a quiet treat for yourself. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to unwind, this cruise offers an elegant way to experience California’s stunning coastline in an intimate setting.

What we really love about this experience is the attention to detail—small groups of up to 11 people mean a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the included gourmet meal and wine elevate the moment, making it feel like a special occasion without the hefty price tag. Another highlight? The ability to customize the experience with various add-ons like surprise dinners or flowers, which can turn an already lovely cruise into something truly memorable.

One thing to keep in mind: parking can be a little tricky, especially during busy weekends, and the meeting point requires a bit of coordination since you need to call upon arrival. But for those who love a romantic setting with beautiful water views and good food, these minor inconveniences are well worth it.

This cruise suits couples looking for a romantic evening, small groups celebrating together, or anyone wanting to see Marina del Rey from a fresh perspective. If you enjoy good wine, relaxed conversations, and stunning waterside scenery, this activity is a charming, value-packed choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: Max 11 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Inclusive Experience: Gourmet meal, wine, charcuterie, Bluetooth speakers, and blankets are included.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Customizable Add-Ons: Surprises like dinner upgrades, flowers, or photos can be added before checkout.
• Perfect for Romance and Celebrations: Ideal for couples, birthdays, or small group gatherings.
• Parking: Limited valet parking nearby, or street parking within walking distance.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail in Style

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point near Brizo Restaurant’s docks, you’re greeted with a sense of anticipation. It’s essential to call or text your captain upon booking to confirm your arrival, as showing up without notice might cause some confusion. The meeting spot is straightforward—sit on the bench by the docks and wait for the captain to arrive. We appreciated this organized approach, which helps keep the experience smooth and stress-free.

The Electric Duffy Cruiser itself is a quiet, eco-friendly vessel that offers a smooth ride. Its size makes it perfect for small groups, creating an exclusive and cozy environment. The captain, often praised for being knowledgeable and personable, guides you through Marina del Rey’s best views with ease. Many reviews mention how Sean or Shawn added a personal touch to the trip, sharing local insights and making everyone feel welcomed.

The Scenic Journey

Once underway, the water surrounds you with calmness, and the panoramic views of the marina and Los Angeles skyline are breathtaking. The cruise is designed for relaxation—no rushing, just drifting on gentle waters. You’ll love the way the water reflects the sky at sunset or glows under evening lights, making for perfect photo opportunities.

The highlight for many guests is the delicious gourmet meal. You’re offered a choice of premium proteins or fresh vegetables, presented beautifully on the boat. The included charcuterie board and bottle of wine—either red or white—are the perfect accompaniments for the relaxed, elegant vibe. One guest, Danny, raved about the fresh fruit, cheese, and snacks, noting how the wine was amazing and adding, “I would recommend it for a romantic experience with your significant other.”

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Customization and Extras

While the standard package already impresses, the real magic comes from the add-ons available for purchase before checkout. You can surprise your loved one with flowers, a birthday cake, sushi, desserts, or even photos and videos of your cruise. These extras help turn an already special experience into a personalized celebration.

For those celebrating a birthday or special milestone, a surprise dinner can be arranged. Although not included in the base price, these options add a layer of thoughtfulness and fun that many reviews highlight. Keep in mind that gratuity for the captain is appreciated—at least 20% or $25 per person—so factor that into your planning.

Practical Details and Considerations

The cruise lasts two hours, usually scheduled in the morning, afternoon, or evening, giving you flexibility around your plans. The small group size makes it feel intimate but also manageable for those traveling alone or in pairs. The price point is quite reasonable considering the included food, drinks, and the personalized service.

Parking can be a minor hassle; valet options are available nearby but can cost $49-$59, and validation requires a minimum gratuity of 25%. Street parking is available a short walk away, so arriving a little early helps avoid stress.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the experience for its knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious wine and food. Anriette from the U.S. shared, “Shawn was a pleasure to have as a captain. We had a very nice time,” highlighting the personal touch. John called Sean “a great guide and host,” emphasizing how much fun they had and their intent to return.

Most reviewers agree that the romantic atmosphere and relaxing setting make this cruise special. One guest said, “Most amazing experience ever,” noting the fresh fruit, cheese, snacks, and wine as highlights. The small group size and personalized service create a cozy environment beloved by those seeking an authentic experience.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or small groups celebrating special occasions. If you enjoy beautiful water views, good wine, and a relaxed pace, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s less about grand sightseeing and more about enjoying quality time in a tranquil setting. The personalized service and customizable add-ons ensure each trip can be tailored to your preferences.

While it’s not suited for larger crowds or those with limited mobility (due to parking or dock access), for those seeking an intimate, elegant experience in LA’s marina, this cruise hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
It lasts two hours, providing enough time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in the food and drink.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the boat tour, an experienced captain, a bottle of red or white wine, charcuterie, blankets, Bluetooth speakers, and a select dinner option from available add-ons.

Can I customize my experience?
Yes, you can add surprises like dinner upgrades, flowers, photos, or desserts before checkout. These extras help make your trip more special.

What about parking?
Limited valet parking is available nearby at the hotel, costing around $49-$59, with validation possible for larger gratuity. Street parking is also within a 20-30 minute walk.

How do I meet the captain?
Call or text the cruise provider immediately after booking to confirm your arrival and meet at the docks near Brizo Restaurant. Do not show up without notifying them.

Is this activity suitable for children or larger groups?
It’s designed for small groups of up to 11 people, making it better suited for couples or close friends. It’s not ideal for children over 250 lbs due to space limitations.

What time of day does the cruise run?
Availability includes morning, afternoon, and evening slots, allowing flexibility for your schedule.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably with layers, especially if you’re on an evening cruise. Bring blankets if the weather is cool.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when booking.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity for the captain is appreciated—20% or $25+ per person—paid directly via cash or apps like Venmo.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a charming, intimate way to enjoy Marina del Rey’s waterfront, this romantic boat cruise delivers. The combination of stunning water views, quality wine and food, and personalized service makes it a standout experience in Los Angeles. The small group setting fosters conversation and connection, making it ideal for couples or friends celebrating together.

While parking requires some planning and the experience is somewhat dependent on weather, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall value and authenticity of the experience. The thoughtfully curated details—such as blankets, Bluetooth music, and optional surprises—show that this cruise is all about making your time on the water memorable.

If you’re after a relaxed, high-quality outing that combines scenic beauty with gourmet touches, this cruise is a fantastic choice. Its affordability and intimacy stand out in a city full of larger, more commercial tours—here, you get the feeling of being treated to a private, special escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: