Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Dinner Charcuterie or Sushi

If you’re dreaming of a charming, intimate getaway in California, a boat cruise in Marina Del Rey might be just what you need. This luxury boat experience offers a blend of stunning views, gourmet food, and a peaceful ambiance, all wrapped up in a package that feels both special and relaxed. Whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply craving a scenic escape, this cruise provides a memorable way to enjoy Los Angeles’ most beautiful marina.

One of the things we love about this experience is how customizable it is—whether you prefer a wine and charcuterie setup or a sushi feast, there’s an option for every taste. Plus, the fact that the boats are fully electric and eco-friendly adds a modern, responsible touch that’s increasingly important. The small group size (up to 20 people spread across two boats) keeps the atmosphere intimate and personal.

That said, a potential consideration is the specific timing—since the cruises last between 1 and 2 hours, you’ll want to plan your day around the available slots, especially during busy seasons. Also, while the experience is quite luxurious, it’s best suited for those comfortable with small boat settings and who appreciate a more relaxed, scenic outing rather than high-energy water sports.

If you’re seeking a romantic, scenic, and gourmet experience in Los Angeles, this cruise hits many right notes. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet elegant way to explore marina life.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small groups with up to 20 guests ensure a personalized feel.
• Eco-Friendly Boats: Fully electric, quiet, and pollution-free, adding to the tranquil vibe.
• Flexible Food Options: Choices include wine with charcuterie, sushi, or a dinner, with many add-ons for special occasions.
• Expert Guides and Captains: Knowledgeable hosts make the cruise both entertaining and informative.
• Breathtaking Views: Expect stunning sunsets, lively marine wildlife, and scenic marina sights.
• Customizable Add-Ons: From birthday cakes to photo packages, options let you tailor your cruise for your occasion.

A Look at the Experience

The experience typically begins at a designated meeting point, with timing options available depending on your preferences. Once aboard one of the eco-friendly Duffy boats, you’ll be greeted by a friendly, knowledgeable captain—often Shaun or Sean—who is praised for their warmth, local knowledge, and fun personalities.

The boats are noise-free and environmentally friendly, meaning your experience is peaceful and eco-conscious. As you drift around Marina Del Rey, you’ll be treated to spectacular sunset views, the gentle sounds of water, and the possibility of spotting seals, dolphins, and other marine life, which many reviews highlight as a real highlight.

The food and beverage options are carefully curated, with guests raving about the quality. One reviewer mentioned that the chef outdid themselves, and another noted that the wine and charcuterie were top-notch. The small charcuterie boards include an appealing selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers, perfect for snacking while enjoying the scenery. For alcohol, a bottle of red or white wine is included, with optional upgrades like a surprise dinner or larger charcuterie boards available at checkout.

Music is an important part of setting the mood; a wide selection of tunes can be played to match your vibe, whether romantic, festive, or mellow. Many guests appreciated how the captain or guide would also share interesting tidbits about the marina’s history and sights, making the cruise both relaxing and informational.

The Itinerary and Highlights

While the cruise duration is flexible—generally between 1 and 2 hours—the main focus is on the scenic views and marine wildlife. Expect a peaceful glide along the marina, with opportunities to stop and take photos or just soak in the surroundings. The sunset cruise is particularly popular, offering gorgeous hues over the water and a romantic atmosphere.

Some reviewers, like Crystal, describe the experience as “one of the best activities” during their stay, citing the fun personality of guides and the quality of food and drinks. Shaun, in particular, gets praise for being charming, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the trip feel personal and special.

The water activity aspect is largely relaxed but delightful—many guests mention how they enjoyed the dolphins and seals spotted along the cruise, which adds a playful touch to the outing. Since the boats are small and eco-friendly, they glide smoothly, providing a quiet and serene environment.

Food and Beverage Details

The dining experience can be as simple or elaborate as you choose. The included small charcuterie features fresh ingredients and curated selections, perfect for a light snack with your wine. Guests can also opt for sushi or surprise dinners prepared by local chefs—ideal for those celebrating special occasions or just wanting a more filling meal.

The wine selection is curated for quality, with both red and white options. Add-ons like birthday cakes, flowers, or photo packages can elevate the celebration, making it ideal for anniversaries or romantic dates. The reviews are glowing, with many guests mentioning how the hosts made their celebrations extra memorable.

Price and Value

At $109 per person, this cruise offers solid value, especially considering the personalized service, quality food, and stunning scenery. When you factor in the small group size and the customizable options, it’s clear that this experience provides a lot of bang for your buck—particularly for those looking for a romantic or intimate outing rather than a large boat tour.

While the price may seem premium compared to larger, less personalized cruises, the quality of the guides, the gourmet food, and the serene environment make it worthwhile. For couples or small groups wanting to celebrate without the crowds, this cruise delivers a high-end experience at a sensible price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking an intimate, scenic escape in Los Angeles. It suits couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or romantic getaways, but also works well for small groups of friends wanting a unique outing. If you value eco-friendly transportation, excellent service, and customizable options, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, it’s not ideal for those needing wheelchair accessibility or larger groups, as the boats are designed for small parties. If you’re after a high-energy water adventure or a large group event, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The tour duration is typically between 1 and 2 hours, with specific start times available depending on your booking.

Are food and drinks included?
A basic small charcuterie board and a bottle of red or white wine are included. Additional options like sushi, larger charcuterie, surprise dinners, and special add-ons are available for purchase before checkout.

Can I customize my experience?
Yes. You can select from a variety of add-ons such as birthday cakes, flowers, photo/video packages, or special dinners to make your cruise more personalized.

Is this experience eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The boats are fully electric and pollution-free, ensuring a peaceful cruise that’s friendly to the environment.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather—layers are advised for cooler evenings, especially during sunset cruises. Since it’s on the water, bring sunglasses or hats for sun protection if needed.

Is there parking available?
Yes, valet parking is available for $49-$59, with parking validation requiring a gratuity of at least $25 per guest or 20% of the booking total. Alternatively, street parking within a 15-20 minute walk is an option.

Final Thoughts

This Marina Del Rey cruise offers a beautifully balanced experience of scenic views, gourmet food, and intimate atmosphere. It’s well-suited for those looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon or evening on the water. The knowledgeable guides, high-quality offerings, and eco-conscious boats make it a standout choice in LA’s vibrant marina scene.

While it’s priced at a premium, the personalized service and stunning environment justify the cost for many travelers, especially couples or small groups seeking something memorable. If you’re after a romantic, scenic, and gourmet water outing, this cruise checks all the boxes.

Summary

In essence, this luxury boat cruise in Marina Del Rey offers a refined, peaceful escape with plenty of options to tailor the experience. It provides excellent value for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, quality food, and stunning scenery. Perfect for romantic dates, celebrations, or a quiet day on the water, it promises an experience that’s both relaxing and memorable.

Whether you’re celebrating love or just want to enjoy LA’s marina from a different perspective, this cruise is a delightful way to spend a couple of hours soaking in the beauty of California’s coast in style.