Marina Del Rey: A Romantic Boat Cruise with Sushi & Wine

Imagine gliding smoothly over calm waters, the sun setting in a blaze of oranges and pinks, with a glass of wine in hand and delicious sushi on your plate. That’s the promise of this romantic boat experience in Marina del Rey, California. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, on a special date, or simply craving a peaceful escape, this cruise combines scenic beauty, tasty food, and intimate ambiance in a way that feels both indulgent and authentic.

What makes this tour worth considering? First, we love the personalized service and the quality of the food and drinks, which elevate the experience from just a boat ride to a memorable celebration. Second, the guides and captains are frequently praised for their friendliness and professionalism—adding a genuine touch of hospitality.

A potential consideration for travelers is the parking situation, which isn’t included in the ticket price. Valet parking can cost $49–$59, and validation is available only with a minimum spend or gratuity. This might be a minor hassle if you’re relying on parking close by, but it’s a small price to pay for a relaxing evening on the water.

This cruise is best suited for couples wanting a romantic, scenic, and flavorful experience. It’s also perfect for those looking to celebrate a special occasion in a private, serene setting.

Key Points

• Romantic setting with sunset views, wine, and sushi for an intimate experience.
• Guided boat tour offers scenic views of Marina del Rey, sea lions, and local wildlife.
• Quality food and drinks include fresh sushi and a choice of wines, with options to upgrade for gourmet meals.
• Personalized service from attentive crew and captain, making sure your experience is seamless.
• Limited seating ensures a private, crowd-free atmosphere—ideal for special moments.
• Parking costs are separate, and validation depends on additional purchases or gratuity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This 2-hour romantic cruise offers more than just a boat ride. It’s designed to provide a tranquil escape, combining stunning views with delectable food and wine. Departing from Marina del Rey, the trip allows couples to unwind while enjoying the beauty of Southern California’s coast. The boat’s limited seating ensures a private feeling, away from noisy crowds, making it an especially good choice for couples seeking intimacy.

Setting the Scene: The Sunset and Scenic Views

The main draw? Watching the sunset over the Pacific. As the sky shifts from blue to orange, you’ll be cozy with a glass of wine and a plate of sushi. The boat’s gentle sway, combined with the sounds of water lapping against the hull, creates a calming atmosphere. According to reviews, travelers find the views “incredible” and the experience “relaxing and therapeutic,” a perfect way to slow down and reconnect.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For $149 per person, you’ll receive a carefully curated sushi platter for two and a bottle of fine wine, with options like red, white, or sparkling. The quality of the food and drink is a highlight, with many reviewers praising the freshness of the sushi and the attentive service. One guest mentioned that Captain Shaun threw in a complimentary dish for their anniversary, which underscores the crew’s dedication to making moments special.

You can also customize your experience with add-ons like a gourmet dinner, desserts, floral arrangements, or even a champagne upgrade. These little extras can turn a lovely cruise into a truly luxurious event—perfect if you’re celebrating something extra special.

The Guides and Crew

The crew gets high marks for their attentiveness and friendly approach. Captain Shaun, in particular, is frequently highlighted for his personable attitude, knowledge, and ability to make guests feel at ease. Multiple reviews mention that he treated guests like friends, shared interesting tidbits about the marina’s sights, and even pulled the boat closer for better seal lion viewing.

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Wildlife and Local Sights

The tour often features sightings of sea lions and other local wildlife, which adds an authentic touch to the outing. It’s a chance to see these playful creatures up close—an experience both children and adults can appreciate. The boat tour also provides a relaxed view of Marina del Rey’s charming waterfront, with plenty of picturesque photo opportunities.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

While the cruise lasts about two hours, it’s crafted to maximize your relaxing experience. The departure is straightforward: you arrive at the marina, check-in at the dockside entrance, and board the boat, which is equipped for comfort and scenic viewing.

Once underway, your captain will likely give a brief tour of the marina, pointing out landmarks, local wildlife, and perhaps sharing some fun stories. As you settle in, the focus shifts to enjoying your sushi and wine, which are served shortly after departure, adding to the sense of indulgence.

Midway through, the captain might pull into a spot with the best sunset views, perhaps near the seal lion colonies. The calm water and soft lighting make for perfect photo moments. The cruise then winds down as you head back to the marina, with time to savor the last sips of wine and take in the peaceful scenery.

Special Moments and Tips

Many guests have used this cruise for special occasions—anniversaries, proposals, or birthdays. The staff is accommodating, and you’re encouraged to inform them ahead if you want personalized touches like flowers or a special cake.

For the best experience, arrive early—about 10 minutes before your scheduled departure—since the meeting point is outside a restaurant patio, near the wetlands. Parking isn’t included, but nearby valet options are available for $49–$59, and validation is possible with a minimum purchase or gratuity.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and gorgeous views. One reviewer said, “Captain Shaun is the best,” highlighting his professionalism and warmth. Others mention how the fresh sushi and quality wine made the experience memorable, with one noting, “The cheese board with white wine was good, and the birthday cake for my wife was delicious!”

The feedback also underscores how relaxing and therapeutic the trip feels, especially with the gentle ocean breeze and peaceful marina surroundings. Many mention that it’s a great way to disconnect from city stress and enjoy a romantic, screen-free evening.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour operates in the morning, afternoon, and evening, offering flexibility for different schedules. You can book in advance and choose to pay later, which is helpful for planning trips. The cruise is suitable for small groups or private bookings, making it a flexible option for couples or families.

A few practical notes:
– Dress comfortably, avoiding high heels or shoes onboard, for safety and comfort.
– Arrive early to account for traffic and check-in procedures.
– Parking isn’t included, and validation is only available through additional spends.
– Gratuity isn’t included but is appreciated—generally around 20%, or $25+ per person.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic, relaxing escape with a touch of luxury. It’s perfect if you love scenic water views, quality food and wine, and a quiet atmosphere suited for intimate conversations. Families with children might enjoy the wildlife sightings but should note the intimate setting is best suited for adults or small groups. Celebrating a special occasion? This experience offers many options for personalized touches that can make your event even more memorable.

The Sum Up

The Marina Del Rey romantic boat cruise with sushi and wine offers an elegant yet accessible way to enjoy Southern California’s coastline. With stunning sunset views, fresh food, quality wine, and attentive service, it’s more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to pause, celebrate, and connect. The small group size and intimate atmosphere make it especially appealing for couples looking to mark a special moment.

While parking can be a small inconvenience, the overall value and ambiance make this a worthwhile treat. Whether you’re celebrating love, a milestone, or just craving a peaceful getaway, this cruise provides a genuine, high-quality experience that’s hard to match.

For those willing to plan ahead and enjoy a touch of luxury on the water, this cruise stands as a charming and memorable option in Marina del Rey.

FAQ

Is parking included?
No, parking is separate. Valet costs $49–$59, and validation depends on additional purchases or gratuity.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
No, alcohol is provided as part of the experience, with a selection of wine included. Upgrades are available for premium bottles or champagne.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with departures available in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s a romantic, intimate setting, primarily geared toward couples. Children might enjoy the wildlife sightings, but the atmosphere is best suited for adults.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably. Avoid high heels or shoes that might be unsafe on a boat.

Are food options customizable?
The included sushi and wine are standard, but add-on options like gourmet dinners, desserts, or flowers can be arranged at checkout.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity isn’t included but is highly appreciated—around 20% or $25+ per person is typical.

This boat cruise in Marina del Rey offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and culinary delight. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply want to enjoy an evening on the water, it’s a charming way to experience California’s coast in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby