Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner

A Romantic Boat Cruise in Marina del Rey: A Detailed Review

When it comes to celebrating a special occasion or just stealing a quiet moment with someone you love, a boat cruise offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and intimate privacy. This particular experience, offered by Marina Cruisers, stands out in the Los Angeles area for its cozy setting, premium amenities, and personalized touches. While I haven’t taken this cruise myself, a review of the features, reviews, and itinerary provides a clear picture of what you can expect.

I’ll highlight what truly makes this experience special—think stunning waterfront views, quality wines, and thoughtful extras—along with a few considerations to keep in mind. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, celebrating a birthday, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this cruise seems tailored to those wanting an authentic, memorable outing on Los Angeles’s beautiful marina.

Three things we love about this experience:

• The intimacy of a small group or private setting, with only up to 11 guests.
• The quality of the included wine, charcuterie, and gourmet meal options.
• The flexibility of add-ons like surprise dinners, flowers, or photos.

One possible consideration:

• The need to coordinate arrival time carefully, since guests must call upon booking and arrive at the designated meeting point—no walk-ins allowed.

This cruise is best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a personalized, relaxed water experience with a touch of luxury.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Intimate setting: Only 10-11 guests for a personalized experience.
• All-inclusive essentials: Wine, charcuterie, blankets, Bluetooth speakers, and music.
• Flexible add-ons: Dinners, flowers, cakes, and photos available to enhance your cruise.
• Timing and coordination: Must call upon booking and meet at Brizo’s Docks entrance; no walk-ins.
• Pricing: $149 per person offers good value for a 2-hour luxury boat experience.
• Customer satisfaction: Consistently high ratings, with glowing reviews praising guides and scenery.

The Experience at a Glance

This two-hour cruise on a sleek Electric Duffy Cruiser offers a carefully curated experience aimed at romance and relaxation. As you glide through Marina del Rey, you’ll be treated to waterfront views that are both calming and photogenic—think shimmering water, sailboats, and the Los Angeles skyline in the distance. The boat itself is designed for intimacy, comfortably accommodating a small group or a couple seeking privacy.

The Itinerary & What to Expect

Boarding and Meeting:
Guests are instructed to call or text immediately after booking to confirm their arrival. The meeting point is at Brizo’s Restaurant docks, where you’ll find a bench and a captain waiting. This coordination step is vital; no walk-ins or spontaneous arrivals are permitted, so planning ahead is essential.

The Cruise:
Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by an experienced captain—reviewers specifically mention Captain Shaun as knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch to the journey. The boat is equipped with Bluetooth speakers and a wide selection of music, ensuring a soundtrack that suits your mood.

Waterfront Views:
The hour or so spent drifting through Marina del Rey is filled with picturesque scenery. Reviewers consistently mention the stunning views and the peaceful ambiance that makes this cruise a perfect setting for a romantic escape. The small group size means you’re unlikely to feel rushed or crowded, allowing for intimate conversations and relaxed sightseeing.

Dining & Drinks:
Included in the experience is a complimentary gourmet meal—you can choose between premium proteins or fresh vegetables, elegantly prepared and presented. This is a significant perk, as many similar tours charge extra for food.

Alongside your meal, you’ll be offered a couple of glasses of fine wine—red or white—carefully selected to complement the food. Several reviewers mention the excellent wine selection, which adds a layer of indulgence to the experience.

Music & Atmosphere:
The Bluetooth speakers and music selection help set a romantic or celebratory mood. Many guests opt for a playlist that enhances the scenery, making the cruise more memorable.

Optional Add-Ons & Customizations

What truly sets this experience apart are the customizable extras. You can pre-select options like a surprise dinner, flowers, birthday cake, sushi, desserts, or even photos and videos of your trip. These add-ons, while not included in the base price, are highly recommended by guests seeking a personalized touch.

For instance, one reviewer from June 2025 raved about the sushi and snacks and the quality of the wine, emphasizing that these small details elevated the experience. The option to pay the captain directly for add-ons—via cash or apps like Venmo—is convenient, though it’s worth noting that Apple Pay or credit cards aren’t accepted.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Parking & Accessibility

Parking can be a bit of a puzzle; the recommended option is hotel valet at Brizo Restaurant, costing between $49 and $59 depending on the day. Validation is available with a minimum gratuity, but street parking within a 20-30 minute walk is also possible. Since guests must call ahead and meet at the docks, arriving prepared and on time is crucial.

Why This Tour Works Well

The reviews from past guests consistently highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. An attendee from September 2025 notes, “Sean was a great guide and host, so much fun!” The focus on quality—be it in the wine, food, or overall ambiance—appears to be well appreciated.

The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the ability to select personalized add-ons makes it adaptable for special occasions. Whether celebrating a birthday or just seeking a romantic evening, this cruise offers a calm, luxurious escape from the hustle of LA.

What Guests Say

One review from June 2025 mentions, “Most amazing experience ever. Captain Shaun was very knowledgeable and seasoned.” This highlights the importance of a good captain—someone who makes the journey smooth and engaging.

Another guest from May 2025 called it a “very pleasant cruise” that was deeply enjoyed, reinforcing that the experience consistently hits the right note.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This cruise appeals mostly to couples looking for a romantic night out or small groups celebrating a special occasion. It’s ideal for those who appreciate quality food and wine, peaceful scenery, and personalized touches. If you’re after a lively party boat with loud music and large crowds, this might not be your scene.

It’s perfect for anyone wanting a stress-free, intimate water adventure with beautiful views and attentive service. Keep in mind the need for early coordination and the importance of arriving on time—this isn’t a drop-in experience.

The Sum Up

This Romantic Boat Cruise with Wine & Cheese or Surprise Dinner offers a balanced mix of intimacy, luxury, and personalized service. The small-group setting ensures you’ll feel special and relaxed, with plenty of opportunities for quality conversation and sightseeing. The inclusion of gourmet food, fine wines, and the option to add memorable extras makes it a flexible experience tailored for lovers, friends, or small celebration groups.

While the need for booking coordination and parking considerations require some planning, the overall quality and high praise from previous guests suggest this is a worthwhile splurge. It’s a beautifully curated escape that captures the essence of a LA water adventure—peaceful, scenic, and indulgent.

If you value personalized service, scenic views, and a relaxed, romantic atmosphere, you’ll find this cruise a delightful choice. It’s an experience designed to create lasting memories in one of Los Angeles’s most picturesque settings.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for couples?
Absolutely. It’s designed with romance in mind, offering an intimate setting perfect for couples wanting a special night out.

Can I bring additional items or decorations?
While the experience offers several add-ons, any special decorations or personal items should be discussed with the provider beforehand, especially since the cruise includes optional extras like flowers or cakes.

What is included in the price?
For $149 per person, you get the boat tour, an experienced captain, music, a bottle of wine, charcuterie, blankets, and Bluetooth speakers. Additional food, drinks, and surprises are available as extras.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with departures typically available in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

What should I do to prepare for the meeting?
After booking, call or text immediately to confirm your arrival at the designated meeting point at Brizo’s Docks. Arrive on time, as no walk-ins are accepted.

Is parking difficult?
Parking options include hotel valet (with validation possible) or street parking nearby. Arriving early to allow time for parking and check-in is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

This cozy, premium boat cruise offers a lovely way to enjoy Marina del Rey’s waters while indulging in fine wine, delicious food, and serene scenery. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, it delivers an experience filled with authentic charm and personalized touches.

You can check if your dates are available here: