Marina Del Rey: NYE Gourmet Brunch Cruise

Ring in 2024 with a unique experience that combines stunning marina views, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. This NYE Gourmet Brunch Cruise offered by City Cruises California promises a memorable start to your new year, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed yet festive way to celebrate. Imagine enjoying a two-hour cruise on the calm waters of Marina del Rey, with a chef-prepared buffet, unlimited mimosas, and live entertainment—it’s a blend of sightseeing and celebration that appeals to couples, families, and groups of friends alike.

What really makes this cruise stand out is the quality of the onboard culinary experience paired with the picturesque views of the harbor. And, if you love a good brunch with a side of ocean breeze and twinkling city lights, this is likely to be a highlight of your holiday plans. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this experience does not include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, which is worth considering for seamless timing.

Overall, whether you’re after a romantic start to the year or a lively way to gather friends, this cruise offers a balanced mix of fun, flavor, and scenery. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy good food, a casual atmosphere, and the chance to see Marina del Rey in all its festive glory. Now, let’s explore what makes this cruise a worthwhile New Year’s celebration.

Key Points

• Elegant & Fun Atmosphere: A lively yet relaxed cruise perfect for families, couples, or groups.
• Gourmet Food & Drinks: Chef-prepared buffet with a variety of brunch favorites, plus unlimited mimosas and sparkling cider.
• Stunning Views: Scenic vistas of Marina del Rey, including landmarks like Burton Chace Park and local sea life.
• Live Entertainment: Keeps the energy high and the mood festive throughout the cruise.
• Price & Duration: At $143 per person for 2 hours, it offers significant value given the food, drinks, and views.
• No Included Transport: Guests will need to arrange their own transport to the dock.

Planning a New Year’s Eve celebration that’s both special and effortless? This cruise could be just what you need. From start to finish, the experience is designed for comfort, enjoyment, and a dash of elegance—all on the water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise lasts approximately two hours, with starting times varying depending on availability. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and seated at a guaranteed table designed for your party size—meaning no scrambling for seats or awkward grouping. While waiting, take in the marina’s lively scene from the dock, or get a quick sip at the bar before departure.

Once underway, the onboard experience begins with scenic views of Marina del Rey. You’ll cruise past familiar sights like Burton Chace Park and perhaps catch glimpses of playful sea life like dolphins or sea lions, which reviewers say are often visible from the open-air decks or climate-controlled interior.

The Culinary Experience

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the chef-prepared brunch buffet. The menu is impressively diverse: from breakfast pastries and smoked salmon display to scrambled eggs, bacon, and pork sausages—all served fresh and hot. For those with dietary preferences, there are vegetarian options like French toast and vegan items, though the kitchen isn’t gluten-free, so cross-contamination might be a concern for sensitive diners.

The lunch options are equally appealing, with standout dishes like baked orecchiette pasta and sun-dried tomato pasta salad, alongside oven-roasted salmon with miso citrus soy sauce. For meat lovers, there’s the hand-carved tri-tip steak with rosemary marinade and balsamic beef demi-glace—generous portions that keep everyone satisfied.

Desserts include an appealing signature dessert station, featuring seasonal fresh fruit and individual desserts, satisfying the sweet tooth without overindulgence. Whether you prefer savory or sweet, the buffet offers enough variety to keep everyone happy.

Drinks & Entertainment

The cruise keeps the spirits flowing with unlimited mimosas, sparkling cider, coffee, tea, and water—perfect for toasts at midnight or just elevating your brunch experience. The lively live entertainment adds to the upbeat vibe, with music that encourages mingling and dancing.

Guests noted that the friendly staff and knowledgeable guides help make the experience seamless and enjoyable. Reviewer Aubrey described her experience as “a wonderful way to ring in the new year,” emphasizing the “amazing food” and “bottomless mimosas” that made the morning extra fun. She also appreciated the upper deck’s games, which added a playful element to the celebration.

The Views: Why They Matter

One of the cruise’s biggest draws is the scenic backdrops. The open-air decks are the best spot for photos and taking in the view—think glittering city lights, the serene water, and the natural beauty of the marina. Many guests mention how captivating the Marina del Rey skyline looks at sunset and under nightfall, creating a memorable setting for New Year’s photos.

Practical Considerations

While the cruise packs a lot into its 2-hour window, there are a few practical points to consider. The ticket price of $143 per person reflects the included gourmet buffet, drinks, entertainment, and scenic experience. For many, this offers excellent value, especially given the quality of the food and the stunning views.

However, the activity does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation. Arriving early is recommended to find parking and settle in comfortably before departure. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, which makes it a good option for guests with mobility concerns.

Timing-wise, check the availability to see specific starting times, as they can vary around the New Year. Expect to arrive a little earlier to ensure you don’t miss the departure.

Why This Cruise Works Well

This experience is perfect if you love relaxing, scenic celebrations with good food and drinks. It suits travelers who want a laid-back yet lively way to welcome the new year. It’s also a great choice if you’re keen on photo opportunities and want to avoid crowded land-based parties. The combination of live music, delicious brunch, and harbor views creates a festive atmosphere that’s both elegant and fun.

Who Should Book This?

• Couples looking for a romantic, scenic start to the year.
• Groups of friends wanting a lively, communal experience.
• Families seeking a relaxed celebration with kid-friendly options.
• Anyone who appreciates good food, drinks, and beautiful views on the water.

Final Thoughts

The Marina del Rey NYE Gourmet Brunch Cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty, tasty food, and festive fun in a way that feels both special and accessible. It’s an excellent option for travelers seeking a memorable, relaxed way to ring in the new year without the chaos of crowded parties or late-night events. The quality of the buffet, unlimited drinks, and the lively atmosphere make it stand out as a practical yet indulgent celebration.

This cruise is especially suited for those who value authentic experiences on the water, with plenty of opportunities for photos, mingling, and enjoying the view. While it’s not the cheapest way to celebrate, the quality of the experience and the beautiful setting justify the cost for many.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized, and scenic way to say goodbye to 2023, this cruise could be just what you need. It’s a lively, beautiful, and delicious way to welcome the new year surrounded by friends, family, and the sparkling waters of Marina del Rey.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the marina dock.

What should I bring?
You should bring a valid ID or passport for check-in. Comfortable attire and maybe a camera for the stunning views are recommended.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, the buffet includes vegetarian options like French toast and vegan dishes, though gluten-free options are limited. Cross-contamination is possible.

Can I book last minute?
Availability depends on the date, especially around New Year’s. Check the specific start times and availability when booking.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with varying start times based on availability.

The Marina del Rey NYE Gourmet Brunch Cruise offers a practical, enjoyable way to celebrate the new year, combining scenic views, excellent food, and a lively atmosphere in a lovely marina setting.