Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser- Music Wine Sealions

Taking a boat cruise around California’s coast sounds pretty idyllic, and this Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser from Marina del Rey offers exactly that—plus some. For around $103 per person, you get a 2 to 3-hour trip filled with scenic vistas, lively karaoke, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for celebrating or just unwinding. The whole experience promises a mix of fun activities, lovely scenery, and a touch of luxury, all aboard an eco-friendly vessel.

What really caught our eye about this tour is its emphasis on casual entertainment—karaoke, wine, and socializing—making it an excellent choice for groups, special occasions, or couples seeking a different way to see LA’s coastline. We also appreciate how the captain’s friendly attitude and playlist contribute to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

One thing to consider is that parking can be tricky, especially if you’re not arriving early, and the tour is not suitable for very young children or those with certain mobility needs. Still, if you’re after a fun, social, and scenic experience with some added entertainment, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a lively, informal vibe and want to combine sightseeing with a bit of party atmosphere.

Key Points

• Scenic Views & Unique Setting: See Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Malibu, and Marina Del Rey from the tranquil waters of a cozy boat.
• Entertainment & Social Vibe: Karaoke and music are front and center—sing along with your favorite tunes while enjoying the scenery.
• Includes Wine & Snacks: A bottle of wine per couple and small charcuterie are included, with plenty of options to upgrade your experience.
• Flexible & Convenient: Multiple starting locations and a short duration make it easy to fit into your LA itinerary.
• Authentic & Relaxed Atmosphere: Friendly guides and captain Shaun’s good energy enhance the cruise’s fun, laid-back vibe.
• Limited for Young Kids & Mobility: Not suitable for children under 8 or for those with certain mobility restrictions.

An Authentic Look at the Experience

What to Expect During the Cruise

From the moment you step onto the boat, you’re greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The vessel is described as cozy and beautiful, with a focus on eco-friendliness—an added bonus for environmentally conscious travelers. You’ll start at one of three locations, most commonly near Brizo Bar & Restaurant on Vía Marina, which is conveniently positioned next to the Wetland Park.

The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, giving plenty of time to soak in the views without feeling rushed. You’ll cruise along the coast, passing Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Malibu, with the calming waters providing a different perspective from land. The captain, often praised for his good vibe and knowledge, guides you through the experience while his playlist sets a relaxed tone.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

• Stop 1: Starting Point
  Most tours kick off from Brizo Bar & Restaurant, a lively spot that sets the tone for a fun outing. You can choose this as your meetup point, with clear instructions on parking options—either private parking at $25, hotel valet at Brizo, or street parking (which might be tricky but free).

• Stop 2: Scenic Coastal Cruise
  The heart of the experience is the cruise itself. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of California’s coastline, from Venice Beach’s spirited boardwalk to the more upscale Malibu shores. Reviewers mention the marine life viewings, which can include sea lions—adding an element of wildlife spotting that delights many. Expect to enjoy some wine and snacks during this stretch, with the option to add gourmet charcuterie, surprise dinners, or even birthday cakes for special occasions.

• Stop 3: Return & Drop-off
  After the cruise, the vessel loops back to your starting point, where you can unwind at the same restaurant or nearby spots. The experience ends on a relaxed note, leaving you with scenic memories and perhaps a few new singing talents.

What Makes This Tour Special

The standout feature here is the combination of scenic beauty and lively entertainment. Unlike typical boat tours, the focus isn’t just on sightseeing but also on having fun—singing your heart out on karaoke while sipping wine. The reviews highlight how Captain Shaun’s friendly demeanor and upbeat attitude elevate the experience, making everyone feel comfortable whether they’re seasoned singers or first-timers.

Guests have also raved about the quality of the music selection and the natural camaraderie that develops on board. And it’s not just about entertainment; many reviewers appreciated the stunning views and the chance to see marine animals like sea lions, which add a touch of wildlife magic to the trip.

The Value of the Included Offerings

For $103, you’re getting a lot: a boat trip, an experienced captain, a good selection of music, and a bottle of wine per couple. The small charcuterie board complements the wine nicely, turning the cruise into a mini, floating picnic.

Upgrades are available—like larger charcuterie boards, surprise dinners, birthday cakes, sushi, flowers, photos, and even bottle service. These add-ons are perfect if you want to elevate your celebration or make it more personalized, but even the base package offers excellent value given the scenic views and entertainment options.

The Practicalities

Pricing & Duration

At $103 per person, this cruise is reasonably priced for an experience that combines sightseeing, socializing, and entertainment. The duration (2-3 hours) means you get a substantial taste of the coast without overcommitting. It’s ideal for a quick half-day activity or a relaxed evening with friends.

Logistics & Parking

Meeting points are flexible but must be confirmed after booking. Parking can be a challenge—private parking costs $25 for three hours, and street parking is free but hard to find and a 15-20 minute walk. Hotel valet is available at Brizo for $55, just a short walk to the dock. Arriving early is recommended to avoid late arrivals—latecomers over 15 minutes late risk missing the trip entirely.

Accessibility & Restrictions

It’s important to note the activity isn’t suitable for children under 8 or anyone with mobility restrictions that prevent walking 15-20 minutes from parking. The tour explicitly bans items like weapons, large luggage, strollers (except assistance dogs), and sports gear, along with prohibitions against touching marine life or jumping into the water.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Text the provider upon booking to confirm your meeting location.
• Arrive early to secure parking and avoid missing the boat.
• Consider bringing a small towel or jacket, as it can get breezy on the water.
• Tip the crew (recommended $15-$25 per guest) to show appreciation for their friendly service.
• If you want to add extra touches like flowers or cakes, plan ahead—these are available as add-ons.

Real Guest Insights & Feedback

The reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. One guest described the cruise as “amazing,” praising the wine, snacks, and especially Captain Shaun’s good energy. The mention of “beautiful views and cute marine animals” adds a tangible sense of the trip’s charm.

Another review highlights the lively karaoke environment, with the captain’s playlist and his efforts to spoil guests, contributing to a joyful, relaxed vibe. Guests also appreciated the intimate size of the group, making it feel personalized and friendly.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for groups of friends, couples, or celebrating special occasions like birthdays or bachelorette parties. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere with a side of sightseeing, the karaoke and wine combo will keep you entertained and relaxed. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a different perspective of LA’s coast that combines natural beauty with interactive fun.

However, if you’re seeking a more traditional, silent sightseeing cruise or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you’re traveling with very young children or require accessible facilities, plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser offers a refreshing alternative to typical land-based tours. With its focus on music, wine, and marine wildlife, it delivers a mix of entertainment and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat. The friendly crew, especially Captain Shaun, ensures everyone feels at home, making it a perfect bonding experience for groups or couples looking to enjoy LA from a different vantage point.

The carefully curated options for food and add-ons mean you can tailor the cruise to suit your mood, whether that’s a casual sing-along session or a more elaborate celebration. While parking requires some planning, the short duration and scenic highlights make this trip well worth it for those who love a bit of fun with their sightseeing.

In sum, if you’re after a relaxed, social, and scenic experience that mixes the best of California’s coastline with lively entertainment, this cruise will not disappoint. It offers genuine value and memorable moments—set against the backdrop of LA’s iconic shores.

FAQ

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the specific booking and itinerary options.

Where does the tour start?
Most tours start from Brizo Bar & Restaurant at 4360 Vía Marina, Marina Del Rey, but starting locations may vary based on your choice.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather; layers are recommended as it can get breezy on the water. Casual attire is suitable, and bring a light jacket if needed.

Is parking available?
Yes, parking options include private parking at $25, hotel valet at Brizo for $55, or street parking (free but limited). Arrive early to secure a spot.

Are children allowed?
Not typically, as the activity is not suitable for children under 8 years old.

Is food or drinks included?
A bottle of red or white wine per couple and small charcuterie are included. Additional food and drinks can be purchased or added as extras.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted on the boat. Additional services like surprise dinners and cakes are available as upgrades.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals over 15 minutes past the scheduled start risk missing the cruise without refund. Contact the provider beforehand to confirm your arrival.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the vessel is described as eco-friendly, offering a more sustainable way to enjoy the coast.

This lively boat cruise combines sightseeing, entertainment, and relaxation into one memorable LA experience. Whether you’re singing your favorite tune, savoring wine, or just soaking up the stunning scenery, it’s a delightful way to see California’s coast from a fresh perspective.