Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Wine, Cheese, Sealions

If you’re considering an escape on the water in California’s most iconic marina, this two-hour Duffy boat tour promises a cozy, intimate experience filled with wildlife sightings, beautiful sunsets, and good wine. While I haven’t personally taken this exact cruise, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the combination of luxury and natural beauty — a relaxed boat ride with a charming captain, topped with complimentary wine and cheese. Plus, the chance to see playful sea lions in their natural habitat adds a fun, authentic touch. One possible consideration? Since parking isn’t included, you’ll want to plan for nearby parking options.

This experience is especially well-suited for romantic couples, celebrating special moments, or small groups seeking a peaceful yet luxurious outing. Whether you’re marking an anniversary, birthday, or just craving a serene break from the hustle, this cruise offers an authentic and memorable way to enjoy Marina del Rey.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience in a Relaxed Setting: Cozy Duffy boats provide comfort and intimacy.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot playful sea lions and enjoy natural scenery.
• Complimentary Beverages and Food: Two glasses of wine and small charcuterie included.
• Ideal for Celebrations: Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or quiet evenings.
• Flexible Timing & Private Options: Available morning, afternoon, and evening, with private groups.
• Great Value: At $149 per person, it offers a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Imagine gliding through calm waters aboard a luxurious Duffy boat, feeling the gentle sway of the ocean as a welcoming captain steers. This isn’t a hurried tour — the focus is on relaxed enjoyment and scenic beauty.

The cruise typically lasts around two hours, offering enough time to unwind, take photos, savor wine, and maybe even catch a glimpse of California sea lions lounging on nearby buoys. Reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the captain, with many mentioning that their guide was “so nice and knowledgeable” and “accommodative,” making the entire experience feel personalized.

As the boat moves through the marina, you’ll see Marina Del Rey’s famous yachts, which showcase the area’s luxury lifestyle. The views are especially stunning during sunset, when the sky bursts into a palette of oranges and pinks, creating a perfect backdrop for photos or just quiet reflection.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

Sea lions are a primary attraction — playful, curious, and often basking lazily on floating platforms. One reviewer noted they loved watching these wildlife sightings, describing it as “an amazing time on the water with a wonderful, fun, and knowledgeable captain.” The natural beauty of the marina, combined with the gentle sound of waves and seabirds, makes this cruise more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s a peaceful retreat.

Food and Beverage Details

Included in the price are two glasses of wine and small charcuterie, enough to add some flavor to your relaxing cruise. You also have the option to order additional food and drinks before checkout, allowing you to tailor your experience. The availability of complimentary wine and non-alcoholic beverages is appreciated, especially as it adds a touch of celebration without extra fuss.

Comfort and Atmosphere

You can choose to stay inside the heated cabin or step outside on the deck to feel the breeze and enjoy the open air. This flexibility makes it suitable for cooler evenings or those who prefer a more outdoorsy vibe. The boat’s cozy size fosters an intimate setting, making it perfect for romantic dates, small gatherings, or special celebrations.

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The Practicalities and Logistics

Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve a private group or join a shared tour. The tour is available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, giving flexibility to fit your schedule.

Pricing at $149 per person is reasonable considering the included amenities, personalized service, and scenic beauty. Keep in mind, gratuity is customary in California’s service industry, generally 15-20%, which can add to your total if you receive exceptional service. Parking, however, is not included, and you’ll need to find nearby options — such as public parking at 4142 Via Marina or street parking on Via Dolce.

Important to note — immediate text confirmation after booking is required to secure your reservation. No-shows or unconfirmed bookings might be treated as cancellations, so plan ahead.

What Reviewers Say

The overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the experience’s appeal. One reviewer described their cruise as “the most memorable time I ever had with my loved one,” emphasizing the personalized, friendly nature of the captain. Another highlighted the knowledgeable guide who provided great food recommendations alongside their nautical insights.

Many mention how beautiful the sunset views are, and a few pointed out that the wildlife sightings made the trip extra special — “watching sea lions was so fun,” one reviewer shared. The general consensus? It’s a unique, calming, and memorable way to enjoy Marina del Rey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for romantic couples looking for a quiet, intimate experience with beautiful scenery. It’s also perfect for small groups celebrating milestones like anniversaries or birthdays, thanks to its private and cozy setting. Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife sightings, while those seeking a relaxing escape from the city will find this a peaceful retreat.

Because of the flexible timing and inclusive amenities, it’s also appealing for families or small parties wanting a guided, comfortable boat ride with a touch of luxury. The value for money is good, especially considering the personalized touch from the captain and the scenic setting.

Final Thoughts

The Marina Del Rey Romantic Cruise offers a charming balance of luxury, natural beauty, and authentic wildlife encounters. For $149, you get a well-paced, intimate journey with delightful food and drink, set against the backdrop of LA’s most beautiful marina.

The experience’s core strength lies in its ability to provide a peaceful, picturesque escape that fosters connection—whether with loved ones or nature. It’s especially appealing if you value personalized service, scenic views, and wildlife watching.

If you’re after a romantic or quiet getaway, this tour promises a relaxed atmosphere, stunning vistas, and memorable moments. Just remember to plan for parking, bring warm clothing for the evening, and arrive early enough to confirm your reservation.

This cruise is a little luxury that feels like a genuine slice of California life, and it’s easy to see why so many reviewers left with smiles, memories, and a newfound appreciation for Marina del Rey’s waters.

FAQs

Is parking included in the tour price?
No, parking is not included. You can find nearby options such as public parking at 4142 Via Marina or street parking on Via Dolce.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, giving enough time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and watch wildlife.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the boat tour, a friendly captain, two glasses of wine, and a small charcuterie plate. You can also order additional food and drinks in advance.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, making it ideal for special celebrations or just a more exclusive experience.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, especially if you plan to stay outside on the deck during sunset or cooler evenings.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, the cozy, family-friendly vibe suggests it could be suitable, especially for small children who enjoy wildlife and scenic views. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What is the best time of day for this cruise?
Sunset cruises are highly recommended for the stunning sky colors, but tours are available in the morning and afternoon too, offering flexibility.

Do I need to confirm my reservation immediately?
Yes, contact the provider immediately after booking to confirm your reservation, as unconfirmed bookings may be treated as no-shows.

In all, this Marina del Rey boat tour offers a genuine blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, and relaxed luxury—perfect for those seeking to unwind and celebrate amid California’s stunning waters.

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