Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser- Music Wine Sealions

If you’re looking to see some of Los Angeles’ most iconic spots from the water, a boat cruise around Marina Del Rey, Venice Beach, and Malibu might just be the experience for you. This particular tour offers a mix of sightseeing, good vibes, and entertainment — think karaoke, wildlife sightings, and a relaxing atmosphere with wine and snacks. It’s not your typical boat trip; it feels more like a floating party with a scenic backdrop.

What we genuinely like about this experience is how it combines spectacular coastline views with a lively, social atmosphere. The fact that it caters to groups and celebrations makes it stand out from more traditional sightseeing tours. Plus, the chance to spot sealions, pelicans, and other wildlife adds a touch of nature’s charm. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the tour is not suitable for children under 8, so it’s more geared towards adults or older teens.

One thing to keep in mind is the price — at $149 per person, it’s not exactly budget-friendly, but for what’s included (like music, a guide/captain, wildlife viewing, and optional add-ons), many find it offers good value. Still, if you’re after a more passive scenic cruise without the party vibe, this may not be the best fit. This tour is best suited for groups celebrating special occasions, couples looking for a romantic outing, or friends wanting a fun, interactive LA experience.

Key Points

• Scenic coastline views of Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Malibu, and the California coast.
• Lively karaoke entertainment onboard, with options to sing along or hire a DJ.
• Wildlife sightings including sealions and pelicans in their natural habitats.
• Relaxed, social atmosphere perfect for celebrations or casual outings.
• Flexible options for food, wine, and extra treats as add-ons.
• A guide/captain keeps the cruise engaging and informative, with personal touches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruise

If you’re considering this boat cruise, you’ll want to know what makes it a distinctive way to explore LA’s coastline. We’ll break down what to expect, the experience itself, and some honest insights about the pros and cons.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour departs from Marina Del Rey, specifically near 4360 Via Marina, next to Brizo Bar and Restaurant. The meeting point is behind the restaurant, so it’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early and confirm the exact location. You’ll need to plan for parking—public parking nearby costs about $6 for the day, which is pretty reasonable considering LA’s parking prices, but street parking can be tough to find and is free when available.

The cruise lasts between 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience. Morning, afternoon, or evening slots offer flexibility depending on your plans. Keep in mind, the timing can be adjusted if your group doesn’t meet the minimum guest count, though this could mean a slight shift in your schedule.

The Boat and the Atmosphere

The boat itself is described as cozy, comfortable, and eco-friendly. It’s a vessel that feels intimate enough to relax but spacious enough to enjoy good company. The captain, often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, adds a personal touch to the journey. One reviewer even highlighted Captain Shaun as a standout — “super cool, always smiling, and trying to spoil us,” which really enhances the overall vibe.

The onboard music selection is broad, with a playlist curated to keep the mood lively. You’re welcome to bring your own karaoke party or hire their DJ, which makes it perfect for celebrating birthdays, bachelorette parties, or just a fun night out with friends. A pro photographer is also onboard offering photography advice, so you’ll have some great memories captured.

The Scenery and Wildlife

The main attraction? The views. You’ll see Venice Beach and Santa Monica from the water, with plenty of opportunities for postcard-worthy photos. As the boat moves along, the coastline opens up to Malibu, where the scenery becomes even more spectacular — rugged cliffs, expansive beaches, and the glow of the setting sun, depending on your tour time.

Wildlife lovers will be pleased with sightings of sealions and pelicans. The guides provide insight into the habitats, making the wildlife viewing both entertaining and educational. Many previous travelers have enjoyed spotting marine life, especially since it’s visible from a comfortable vantage point on the boat.

More Great Tours Nearby

Food, Wine & Add-Ons

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to enjoy wine and carefully curated snacks while taking in the views. The tour includes a selection of wine and charcuterie, but you also have the option to upgrade with extras like a surprise dinner, large charcuterie boards, sushi, desserts, flowers, or even a birthday cake.

The value of these add-ons depends on your preferences. Many guests appreciate the quality of the wine and snacks, describing them as enjoyable complements to the scenery. Some reviews mention the delicious tapas and cheese, making the experience feel more indulgent. If you’re a foodie or celebrating something special, these options can elevate the trip.

Karaoke and Entertainment

The unique selling point? The karaoke experience. Whether you love singing your heart out or just want to listen and relax, it creates a fun, laid-back atmosphere. You can join in, serenade your friends, or just enjoy the performances. The boat offers a broad music playlist, but you can also hire a DJ for a personalized experience. This feature makes it stand out from typical sightseeing tours and is especially popular among groups celebrating milestones.

Pricing & Value

At $149 per person, the tour is on the pricier side, but many feel it’s justified by the inclusions — scenic views, wildlife, entertainment, and the chance to customize with add-ons. The reviews are glowing, with one reviewer calling it an “awesome experience” and praising the “excellent host” who kept things fun and informative.

However, the price does not include gratuity (suggested 20% or $25 per passenger) or parking, which is common in LA but worth planning for. The optional extras like dinner or photo packages can add significantly to the total, so it’s wise to decide beforehand which upgrades are worth it for you.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits those who want a fun social outing with a mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and entertainment. It’s excellent for groups celebrating special occasions or couples looking for a unique date night. If you love music, wine, and scenic waterside views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

If you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a quieter, more traditional sightseeing cruise, this may not be the best fit. It’s more lively and geared toward adults or older teens who can appreciate the karaoke, wine, and party atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser offers a lively way to explore LA’s coastline, blending beautiful scenery with interactive entertainment. Its strength lies in the friendly guides, wildlife sightings, and the chance to sing your favorite songs on the water. The optional add-ons make it flexible, whether you want a simple tour or a full-on celebration with food and drinks.

For those who enjoy social experiences, good wine, and stunning views, this cruise delivers a memorable outing. It’s a great choice if you’re after something a little different from standard boat tours — a relaxed, fun, and picturesque way to spend a few hours in LA.

Just remember to factor in parking and gratuities, and plan your day around the meeting details to avoid stress. Overall, if you’re looking for a lively, scenic adventure that combines sightseeing with entertainment, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really — it’s best for kids over 8 years old, as the tour focuses on adult-friendly entertainment like wine and karaoke.

How long does the cruise last?
Typically between 2 and 3 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery, wildlife, and activities without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire works fine. Dress for the weather — layers if it’s cooler or a hat for sun protection. Shoes are usually removed onboard, and shoes indoors are not allowed.

Are there options for food and drinks?
Yes, you can enjoy wine and charcuterie included in the tour, or upgrade with additional food options like sushi or desserts. These are available as add-ons.

How do I find the meeting point?
Next to 4360 Via Marina, behind Brizo Bar and Restaurant. Call your captain when your party is ready to board.

Is parking easy?
Parking nearby is available at $6 for the day, but street parking can be limited. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Can I bring my own music or karaoke setup?
You’re encouraged to bring your karaoke party or hire the onboard DJ for a lively experience.

What about gratuity?
A 20% tip or at least $25 per passenger is customary and not included in the ticket price.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change.

How many people will be on the boat?
The tour can be private if you book exclusively, but generally, it’s designed for groups, with flexibility based on the reservation.

If you’re after a relaxed yet fun way to see LA’s coast, enjoy some music, and maybe even sing a few tunes, this boat cruise hits the spot. It’s a lively, social experience that combines the best of California’s coastal scenery with entertainment and good company.

You can check availability for your dates here: