Super Saver: Self-Guided Speed Boat Adventure & iRide GPS Guided ScooterTour

If you’re looking to explore San Diego beyond the usual tour buses and crowded sightseeing spots, this self-guided land and sea adventure might just be what you need. Designed for independent explorers who love a bit of thrill, it offers the chance to take control of your sightseeing experience with a combination of speedboat rides and GPS-guided scooter tours. Unlike group tours, you set your own pace, choosing which sights to enjoy on each day, making it an ideal flexible adventure.

What really caught our eye are the freedom to explore on your own terms and the stunning views you’ll get from both land and water. Plus, the inclusion of a speedboat drive—something that’s often reserved for guided tours—is a real highlight. But, a potential consideration is that the experience is quite activity-packed, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with doing a bit of moving around and managing their own timing.

This tour tends to work best for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and independence. If you’re after a unique, personalized way to see San Diego, especially if you’re comfortable with water-based activities and navigating with GPS, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Self-guided freedom: You control your schedule and stops, making it flexible.
• Two adventures in one: Combines land scooter exploration with an exciting speedboat ride.
• Stunning vistas: Offers panoramic views of San Diego’s iconic sights from both land and water.
• Crowd-free experience: Your group is exclusive, avoiding large tour groups.
• Includes safety gear and orientation: You’re well-equipped even if you’re unfamiliar with boats or scooters.
• Price point: About $161 per person, offering a unique combination of activities for the cost.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s value is built around convenience and fun. For the price of approximately $161.46 per person, you get your own mini speedboat, an electric scooter, all taxes and fees, and safety gear—pretty much everything you need to get started. The guided narration ensures you won’t miss out on interesting tidbits about San Diego’s landmarks, even as you explore at your own pace.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the start point. Also, while the boats and scooters are designed for two riders each, there are certain restrictions—like a weight limit of 450 lbs combined—and drivers must meet age requirements, such as being 18+ to drive the boat solo.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour is a well-structured, yet flexible itinerary that hits many of San Diego’s top sights, all while giving you the freedom to spend as much time as you want at each spot.

Starting with the Water: Speedboat Highlights

Your adventure kicks off on the speedboat, which is a real thrill for anyone craving an adrenaline rush. You’ll glide past the USS Midway, close enough to see the aircraft carrier and even spot sea lions—an experience many reviews rave about. The boat also takes you around Point Loma, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the famous Coronado Island from the water.

The boat ride is not just about the speed; it’s about taking in the sights from a different perspective. The speedboats are gas-powered and designed for a fun, fast cruise, so expect to feel the wind and enjoy the splashes. As one reviewer mentioned, “Remember these are speed boats… gas it and have fun!” The safety gear, including US Coast Guard-approved life jackets and safety orientation, helps ensure a secure experience.

Land Exploration with GPS-guided Scooters

After the thrill on the water, you switch gears to the electric scooters. Guided by GPS, these scooters take you through Little Italy, Seaport Village, Old Town, Balboa Park, and even past the San Diego Zoo. You’ll also cross the iconic Coronado Bridge—an engineering marvel—and can take a ferry ride on the scooters, adding an extra element of fun and exploration.

The scooters are suitable for those aged 15 and up, with drivers needing to present a photo ID. They’re a perfect way to get off the beaten path and explore at your own pace, especially since you can decide how long to linger at each spot.

Flexibility and Independence

One of the main perks of this tour is its flexibility. The tour is entirely self-guided, meaning you can split the experience over multiple days if you prefer. You’re not bound by a strict schedule, so if a particular spot catches your eye, you can linger longer.

Views and Landmarks

Whether on water or on land, you’ll get excellent panoramic views of San Diego’s landmarks. From the boat, the skyline and ocean vistas are breathtaking; from the scooters, you can explore neighborhoods like Hillcrest or see the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter up close.

Authentic Traveller Insights

From reviews, we learn that the guides and narration are appreciated. One reviewer praises their guide Tanner, highlighting the close-up views of sea lions and the aircraft carrier as unforgettable moments. They also mention the speed boats are fast, so be prepared for a fun adrenaline rush.

Travelers also note the simplicity of the safety procedures and the no experience required aspect, which makes this accessible for most people. However, a common theme is that you should be comfortable with active pursuits—speedboats and scooters aren’t for everyone, especially if mobility is an issue.

How the Tour Feels Practical and Worth the Cost

At around $161, the price might seem steep if you’re just comparing it to a typical city tour, but it’s quite reasonable when you consider the private, flexible experience and the exhilaration of driving your own speedboat. Plus, the inclusion of GPS-guided scooter exploration adds a layer of independence that many group tours lack.

Given the reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, you’re likely to find this experience both fun and memorable. It’s particularly appealing if you love a mix of land and sea adventures and want to avoid crowded sightseeing buses.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers and those comfortable with self-guided activities. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a personalized and active way to see San Diego’s top sights without being tied to a schedule. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy water-based fun and are okay with managing their own timing and navigation.

If you’re traveling with a partner or a friend who enjoys a bit of adrenaline and independence, this package makes for a memorable day. It’s less ideal for those with mobility issues or who prefer guided, structured tours—though the safety measures and orientation do make it manageable for most.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone craving a dynamic, personalized San Diego experience, this combination of a speedboat and GPS scooter tour offers a lot for the price. The freedom to explore at your own pace, combined with stunning views and exciting activities, makes it stand out from typical tours.

The quality of the guides and the safety measures add peace of mind, while the flexibility is perfect for those who dislike rigid schedules. It’s a great option for adventure-minded travelers or couples and friends looking for a fun, different way to see the city.

On the downside, this isn’t a passive experience—you’ll need to be comfortable with active pursuits and managing your own time. And since there’s no hotel transfer included, you’ll want to plan your transportation to the start point. Still, for those who want control over their sightseeing with a splash of adrenaline, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, both the speedboat and scooters are designed for people with no prior experience. Safety orientations are provided, and no boating license is needed.

Can I do this tour over multiple days?
Absolutely. Since each segment is self-guided and flexible, you can split the experience across different days based on your schedule.

What is the maximum weight limit for the scooters and boats?
The combined weight limit for two passengers is 450 lbs (204.1 kg), which helps ensure safety and comfort.

Is there an age restriction for driving the speedboat?
Yes, you must be 18 or older to drive the boat by yourself. Drivers of the scooters must be at least 15 years old with a photo ID.

Are safety gear and orientation provided?
Yes. You’ll be given a safety briefing, US Coast Guard-approved life jackets, and helmets for the scooter ride.

What should I bring?
In summer, bring a swimsuit, sunblock, sunglasses, and a towel. In winter, a jacket is recommended. Sandals or flip-flops are best for the scooter.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

Are there any hidden costs?
All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included. However, you’ll need to cover your transportation to the start location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What’s the best way to book?
Booking in advance is recommended—on average, travelers book about 10 days ahead to secure their spot.

If you’re after a unique San Diego adventure that combines thrills and independence, this self-guided tour offers a fantastic way to see the city from both land and sea on your own terms. Remember, it’s all about the freedom to explore, so if that sounds like your kind of trip, you’ll likely walk away with some great memories—and perhaps a few stories about zooming around on a speedboat!