Marina Del Rey Luxury Boat Cruise Wine, Charcuterie Sealions

Imagine gliding across calm waters on a sleek Duffy boat, surrounded by LA’s most beautiful marina. You’re sipping wine, nibbling on cheese and charcuterie, all while playful sea lions lounge nearby. Sounds pretty perfect, right? While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a genuinely delightful experience that combines luxury, wildlife spotting, and a touch of romance.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, it’s the personalized service from an experienced captain who doubles as a knowledgeable guide. Second, the beautiful scenery of Marina del Rey, often called one of LA’s most charming and scenic spots, is a true highlight. Lastly, the well-curated food and drink offerings, including complimentary wine and handcrafted charcuterie, add a layer of indulgence.

One potential consideration is the emphasis on alcohol, with a recommended limit of two glasses per person for safety. While this keeps the vibe relaxed and fun, it’s worth noting if you’re planning a more family-friendly or sober outing.

This tour would suit couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups celebrating a special event, or anyone who loves wildlife and luxury on the water. It’s an intimate experience that offers both relaxation and a chance to see LA’s marine life up close.

Good To Know

• Luxury Experience: A private, cozy Duffy boat with a personalized touch.
• Wildlife Watching: Prime viewing of sea lions and other marine life in their natural habitat.
• Gourmet Touch: Complimentary wine, cheese, and charcuterie elevate the outing.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable captains like Shaun make the experience informative and fun.
• Flexible Options: Perfect for romantic dates, birthdays, anniversaries, or small celebrations.
• Value for Money: At $149 per person, considering the scenery, wildlife, and food, the experience is quite reasonable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What to Expect on This 2-Hour Journey

This cruise is designed to be both laid-back and visually stunning. The typical itinerary involves setting sail from a dock in Marina del Rey, with the meeting point conveniently behind Brizo Bar and Restaurant at 4360 Via Marina. The boat itself is a Duffy — known for being quiet, eco-friendly, and perfect for cruising around LA’s calm waters.

Once onboard, your captain, often Shaun based on reviews, will take the helm and serve as your guide. The boat is equipped with Bluetooth-connected music, so you can set your preferred playlist. Expect to be offered two glasses of wine—red or white—and non-alcoholic drinks are available if you prefer. The included handcrafted charcuterie with cheese and crackers is perfect for nibbling as you relax and take in the views.

Wildlife & Scenic Highlights

One of the main draws is observing playful sea lions lounging on docks or bobbing in the water. Multiple reviews mention the delight in spotting these creatures, with some describing them as “playful” and “adorable.” The captain’s local knowledge helps you identify other marine birds and perhaps even some passing boats or yachts.

As the day winds down, the setting sun turns the sky into a canvas of warm oranges and pinks—an ideal backdrop for photos or just soaking in the moment. Expect the boat to drift smoothly along, giving ample opportunity for sightseeing and wildlife viewing without feeling rushed.

Why the Food & Drink Matter

The included wine and charcuterie are more than just extras—they set a laid-back, elegant tone. Guests particularly appreciated the selection of wines, paired expertly with cheese and crackers, making it easy to indulge without feeling overdone. Several reviewers mentioned that Shaun, the captain, even made an impromptu stop for local treats like HIHO Cheeseburgers, adding a personal touch that felt spontaneous and genuine.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Celebrating Special Moments

This cruise is versatile. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or small family gatherings. The intimate setting and attentive service create a memorable environment for marking life’s milestones. One reviewer shared how Shaun’s attention to detail, including helping locate the dock and ensuring everyone’s needs were met, made her birthday extra special.

Additional Add-Ons & Customization

While the base experience costs $149 per person, there are options to enhance your cruise with extras like a larger charcuterie board or surprise dinners. However, even without these, the experience delivers on scenic beauty and relaxation. If you’re looking for a “picture-perfect” cruise, the reviews suggest that you’ll be pleased with the ambiance and wildlife encounters.

Practical Details & What You Should Know

Duration & Scheduling

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and is available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, allowing flexibility to fit your plans. Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later, which is handy for flexible trip planning.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

The meeting location, behind the Brizo Bar and Restaurant, is easy to find, and skipping the lines through a separate entrance adds convenience. Keep in mind the boat’s policies—no high heels, pets, or large luggage—and note that certain items like drones or fireworks are strictly prohibited.

Price & Value

At $149 per person, the cruise offers a balanced mix of luxury, wildlife, and scenic beauty. When you consider the included wine, cheese, and the private nature of the tour, it compares favorably with other LA water experiences. Plus, the reviews praise the attentive service, with Shaun receiving consistent commendations for his personality and professionalism.

Group Size & Atmosphere

While the experience can be tailored for private groups, it’s equally suited for small groups or couples. The intimate setting fosters conversation and connection, making it ideal for romantic outings or small celebrations.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently mention Shaun, the captain, who is described as “fun,” “knowledgeable,” and “going above and beyond” to create a memorable experience. One review even highlights his “natural attention to detail,” such as patiently helping locate the dock or stopping for local treats.

The wildlife sightings often come with comments like, “we got to see a lot of birds, sea lions, and more,” emphasizing the close-up encounters with marine life. Many reviewers also note the cozy, charming boat, which feels more like a private yacht than a touristy attraction.

Despite minor delays or misunderstandings—often due to translation issues—guests say that Shaun’s professionalism and friendliness quickly turned the experience into a highlight of their LA visit. The combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and gourmet touches makes the cruise feel special without being overly formal.

The Sum Up

This Marina del Rey luxury boat cruise offers a slice of LA’s relaxed, upscale waterfront lifestyle in just two hours. With its intimate setting, wildlife sightings, and excellent food and wine, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, low-key adventure. Whether celebrating a milestone, enjoying a romantic day out, or simply wanting to unwind on the water, this tour delivers a genuine sense of leisure and luxury.

The knowledgeable captain, the beautiful surroundings, and the thoughtful touches like wine and charcuterie make this experience stand out among LA’s many water-based options. It’s a great value for a unique, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching and photo-taking. If you’re after a small, refined adventure with a friendly guide, this cruise will likely tick all your boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but activities like wine tasting suggest it’s geared toward adults. Children might be welcome, but it’s best to check with the provider about age policies.

How many people can the boat accommodate?
While the exact capacity isn’t specified, the experience is typically tailored for small groups or private parties, making it ideal for intimate gatherings.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour provides wine and charcuterie, but additional food or drinks are not mentioned as permitted. For special requests, contact the provider beforehand.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothes are perfect. Remember, high heels are not allowed, and layers might be wise if the weather is cooler.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
The description doesn’t specify bathroom facilities, so it’s likely a small boat without amenities. Plan accordingly.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
No, pets are not permitted, based on the stated restrictions.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This cruise combines the best of LA’s marine wildlife, scenic views, and luxurious touches for a genuinely enjoyable excursion. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or a local looking for a relaxing day, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: