LA: Birthday Special Private Yacht (1 ticket covers 1-6 people)

Introduction

If you’re thinking about celebrating a birthday or special occasion on the water in Long Beach, this private yacht experience might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a pretty charming way to enjoy the city from a different perspective. The boat is yours alone—no strangers, no shared groups—which already sets it apart from typical sightseeing tours.

What stands out to us is the personalized touches—a cake and banner included, plus the option to bring your own food and drinks. And, of course, the chance to see local wildlife like seals, sea lions, and sometimes dolphins, all from the comfort of a private boat. The one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is about relaxed sightseeing rather than high-energy adventure, so it’s perfect if you want a calm, scenic experience.

One potential consideration is the price point—at $399 for up to six people, it’s a solid deal if you’re splitting costs, but it’s not exactly budget-friendly for everyone. Still, if you’re after a memorable, intimate celebration with good views and a professional crew, this trip has a lot to offer. It seems most suited for small groups, families, or anyone wanting a personal, low-key way to mark a special day.

Key Points

• Private experience: No strangers aboard, only your group.
• Includes cake and banner: Perfect for celebrating birthdays or special milestones.
• Wildlife viewing: Seals, sea lions, and occasionally dolphins are often seen in their natural habitat.
• Bring your own food: You can enjoy your picnic and drinks on the boat.
• Flexible and friendly crew: Well-reviewed for professionalism and warmth.
• Two-hour duration: Enough time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What to Expect from the Experience

This private yacht tour is a straightforward, relaxed trip designed to showcase some of Long Beach’s best sights and wildlife. For those who love being on the water but prefer a calm, personalized journey, this setup hits the right notes.

The Itinerary in Detail

The highlights are less about active stops and more about beautiful views and wildlife encounters. You’ll start at Pierpoint Landing in Long Beach, a convenient spot close to public transportation, which makes meeting up hassle-free. After boarding, the boat gently cruises through Rainbow Harbor, giving you a chance to take in the sparkling water, the city skyline, and some iconic landmarks.

The first major visual treat is passing by the world-famous Queen Mary ocean liner. You won’t get off the yacht here; instead, the boat drifts slowly past this historic ship, allowing you to snap photos and marvel at its grandeur. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a great way to kick off the tour.

Next, you’ll cruise past the waterfront shops and restaurants that reflect the lively local scene. It’s a scenic route that offers plenty of chances for photos, especially if you’re into capturing the vibe of Long Beach’s bustling harbor area.

The real wildlife highlight comes when the boat moves toward the open water. You’ll get close to sea lions and seals, often playing on buoys and mooring points. Many reviewers noted how fun it was to see these animals in their natural environment, and some even spot dolphins if luck is on your side. The boat stays close enough for good views but not so close as to disturb the animals, maintaining an ethical and respectful distance.

Further, the boat passes by a beautiful lighthouse on a hill, which adds to the scenic charm of the trip. Throughout, the calm, glassy waters of Rainbow Harbor and the surrounding areas provide a peaceful backdrop, ideal for relaxing and unwinding.

The Highlights of the Tour

• Sea Life Stop: The boat drifts past seals and sea lions, often hanging out on buoys. It’s a popular and well-loved part of the trip, with many guests describing it as a highlight. You’ll get to see these creatures playing and relaxing, all within easy view.

• Landmark Viewing: Photos of the Queen Mary and the lighthouse are common, as the boat passes slowly by these notable sites. The route is designed for photo-taking and sightseeing without getting off the boat.

• Wildlife in Action: Some reviews mention dolphins sometimes making an appearance, which adds an unpredictable and exciting element to the trip.

• Relaxed Atmosphere: You can play your own playlist via Bluetooth, bringing your personal vibe to the boat. The outdoor seating allows everyone to enjoy the breeze and sunshine comfortably.

The Crew and Service

Reviewers consistently praise Captain Ryan for his professionalism and friendliness. One said, “Ryan made us feel safe and provided us with a smooth excursion,” and another mentioned he treated your like family. This kind of personalized service can really elevate your experience, especially if you’re celebrating something special.

The boat is described as “neat and clean,” and the crew is attentive without being intrusive. They also provide an 8-inch cake, which makes for a lovely touch when celebrating a birthday. Since outside food and drinks are allowed, you can tailor the picnic to your preferences—just remember to bring your own goodies.

Duration and Practicalities

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The schedule seems flexible enough for most travelers, and the flat rate of $399 per group (up to six people) makes it straightforward to budget. Keep in mind, bookings are made on average 38 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.

What’s not included

While the tour offers a lot of value, there are some limitations. You won’t be stopping on land or getting off the boat, so if you’re hoping for a more active or explorative experience—like snorkeling or dock visits—this isn’t the right fit. It’s primarily a sightseeing and wildlife-viewing cruise, perfect for those who want a scenic, intimate adventure.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This trip really shines for small groups or families celebrating special occasions. It’s ideal if you want a private, relaxed setting with personalized touches like cake and banners. It’s also great for wildlife enthusiasts and those who love snapping photos of iconic landmarks from the water.

However, if you prefer longer excursions, active water sports, or land-based sightseeing, you might find this tour a bit limited. It’s most suitable for those who appreciate calm, scenic cruising and the company of loved ones.

Final Thoughts

This private yacht tour in Long Beach offers a completely personalized experience with stunning views, friendly service, and wildlife encounters that feel authentic and unhurried. At $399 for up to six guests, it’s a good value if you’re splitting costs and looking for an intimate celebration or a peaceful escape from city life.

The combination of beautiful scenery, wildlife spotting, and thoughtful touches like cake and your own playlist makes it a memorable option for small groups. The lack of land stops means it’s all about the views and the vibe — no rushing, just relaxing on the water.

If you love the idea of celebrating with a private cruise and want to see Long Beach from a fresh angle, this trip could be your perfect fit. Just remember to book early, come prepared with your picnic, and get ready for a calm, scenic adventure you’ll remember.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the yacht?
The tour is designed for groups of 1 to 6 people, making it ideal for intimate gatherings or small family celebrations.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, outside food and drinks are welcome, so you can pack your favorite picnic or beverages to enjoy during the trip.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the private yacht for about 2 hours, the cake, and a banner for celebration. The crew provides a Bluetooth sound system for your playlist, and no strangers will join your group.

Are there any age restrictions?
All ages are welcome. Children under 12 are required to wear a life vest provided by the crew.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll cruise by the Queen Mary, shops and restaurants reflecting Long Beach’s waterfront, and pass near the lighthouse. The main wildlife sightings include seals and sea lions, with occasional dolphins.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and private way to celebrate a special day in Long Beach, this yacht trip offers a lovely blend of comfort, wildlife, and memorable views. It’s a straightforward choice for small groups looking to create something special without the fuss of larger tours.