Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner

Imagine gliding across calm waters, the Los Angeles skyline in the distance, with a glass of wine in hand and your loved one nearby. That’s essentially what the Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner promises—and based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it does so with style and thoughtfulness. While we haven’t taken the cruise ourselves, this experience has garnered a perfect 5-star rating from a handful of enthusiastic travelers who found it memorable and thoroughly enjoyable.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the personalized, intimate setting on a small, luxurious electric Duffy cruiser—perfect for just 10-11 people. Second, the combination of scenic water views with premium food and wine elevates what might otherwise be a simple boat ride into a special occasion. One possible consideration is the need for guests to call ahead and coordinate their meet-up at the dock, which adds a layer of planning but ensures a smoother experience.

This cruise is ideal for romantic dates, celebrations, or small gatherings eager for a relaxed, scenic experience in Marina del Rey. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want a peaceful escape with your partner, the focus on quality and comfort makes it a compelling choice.

Key Points

• Small, intimate setting for up to 11 guests ensures a cozy and personalized experience.
• Includes a gourmet meal and wine, perfect for a romantic occasion or special celebration.
• Scenic views of Marina del Rey provide a stunning backdrop for memorable photos and quiet reflection.
• Flexible add-ons such as surprise dinners, flowers, and photos allow customization.
• Skilled captain and guide ensure relaxed, safe navigation through the waters.
• Easy cancellation policy gives flexibility for changing plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What to Expect

Setting the Scene: The journey begins by meeting at the docks near Brizo Restaurant in Marina del Rey. You’re asked to call your captain upon booking to confirm your arrival—an important step that might seem minor but helps avoid confusion or missed departures. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by a luxurious electric Duffy Cruiser, a vessel designed for comfort and style, perfect for a small group or couple.

The Cruise Itself: Over the two-hour voyage, you’ll gently glide through Marina del Rey’s calm waters, enjoying the serenity and the views that change with the light. The boat’s size ensures it stays intimate, allowing for meaningful conversations and an unobstructed view of the waterfront. The deck is equipped with Bluetooth speakers, so you can set your own playlist to match the mood—romantic, upbeat, or relaxing.

Food and Drink: Included in the price is a bottle of red or white wine and a charcuterie board, which can be a delightful mix of cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments. Travelers have praised the quality of the wine and the beautifully presented snacks. One reviewer mentioned “fresh fruit, cheese, and snacks,” which suggests a thoughtful selection of light, flavorful options that pair well with wine.

Music and Atmosphere: The boat is equipped with a broad music selection, adding to the relaxed vibe. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a honeymoon, or just an evening out, the sound system helps tailor the ambiance.

Optional Add-Ons: While the base experience offers a lot, you can make it even more memorable by selecting from a range of extras—surprise dinners, flowers, photos, or custom desserts. These can turn an already lovely cruise into a truly personalized event.

Captain and Service: The reviews highlight the captain, Shawn, as “very knowledgeable” and “a pleasure to have onboard.” His experience contributes greatly to the smooth, stress-free nature of the tour. Guests consistently mention feeling well cared for, which adds to the overall value.

The Golden Moments

The scenic views of Marina del Rey are undoubtedly a highlight. The waterway is dotted with boats, luxury yachts, and the California coastline, all bathed in natural light or evening glow depending on the time of day. The feeling of drifting away from the traffic and noise of the city into this peaceful marina is a significant part of the appeal.

The gourmet meal is designed to evoke a sense of luxury without being overly formal. The elegant presentation of a choice of premium proteins or fresh vegetables elevates the dining experience from simple snacks to a proper meal. Guests often comment on how the food and wine added a romantic touch, making the entire cruise feel like a special occasion.

Several reviewers called out the quality of the wine as “amazing,” and the snacks as “delicious.” The thoughtful combination of gourmet ingredients and the opportunity to enjoy them in such an idyllic setting make this cruise feel like a true treat.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise appeals most to couples looking for a romantic escape or small groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones. It’s also well-suited for anyone wanting a quiet, scenic way to enjoy Marina del Rey without the crowds. The relaxed pace and personalized touches make it a great choice for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and quality over quantity.

Keep in mind, this experience is not suitable for guests over 250 lbs, a note from the provider that ensures safety and comfort for all aboard.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Be sure to call or text immediately upon booking to confirm your arrival at the dock. This step is crucial to avoid missing the departure, as no rescheduling or refunds are issued without proper notification.
• Parking nearby can be tricky; hotel valet options are available at Brizo Restaurant for $49 weekdays or $59 weekends, but street parking is within walking distance—allow some extra time.
• Consider pre-selecting add-ons like surprise dinners or flowers to enhance your experience—these can be booked before checkout.
• Tip your captain generously—20% or more is appreciated, and you can pay via cash or apps like Venmo or Zelle.
• The cruise runs in the morning, afternoon, or evening, so choose a time that best suits your preferences for light and ambiance.

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Final Thoughts

The Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner offers a blend of scenic beauty, cozy intimacy, and gourmet indulgence. It’s a well-reviewed, thoughtfully designed experience that caters to those wanting to celebrate love or simply enjoy a peaceful escape in Marina del Rey. The small-group setting, knowledgeable captain, and quality food and wine make it a value-rich option for travelers who cherish authentic, memorable moments on the water.

While it’s not a cruise for large parties or those seeking adventure, its charm lies in its simplicity and elegance. For couples seeking a serene, romantic retreat—or small groups eager for a special treat—this cruise hits just the right note.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for a group of friends or just couples?
It’s ideal for both small groups and couples, with a maximum of 11 people, ensuring an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the views, food, and company.

What is included in the price?
The base price includes the boat tour, a bottle of red or white wine, charcuterie, blankets, Bluetooth speakers, and a knowledgeable captain.

Can I bring my own music?
Yes, the boat is equipped with Bluetooth speakers, allowing you to set your preferred playlist during the cruise.

Are there options for special dietary needs?
The provided details mention a choice of premium protein or fresh veggies, but specific dietary requests should be clarified with the provider beforehand.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, parking options include hotel valet at Brizo Restaurant for a fee or street parking within walking distance. Validation may be available with a gratuity.

Can I customize the experience with add-ons?
Absolutely. You can select from surprise dinners, flowers, photos, and more before checkout to personalize your cruise.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider bringing a blanket if you’re cruising in the evening, as it can get breezy on the water.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Make sure to follow the instructions to avoid losing your booking or refund eligibility.

In all, this experience offers a special way to see Marina del Rey from the water, paired with quality food and a touch of romance. Whether you’re marking a milestone or simply want a peaceful night out, this cruise deserves serious consideration.

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