Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting

If you’re considering a trip to Santa Monica and want to see a different side of LA—one that’s all about gentle waters, local wildlife, and good vibes—this electric boat cruise could be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but based on reviews and the experience outline, it’s a charming way to unwind and enjoy the marina’s sights.

What really catches the eye here are the tranquil cruise on a fully electric Duffy boat and the tasty selection of wine, meats, cheeses, and fruit. Both upsides make the experience feel like a mini getaway, perfect for those wanting a relaxing few hours with a touch of elegance. On the flip side, some should note that it’s a laid-back, scenic ride rather than an action-packed adventure—so if you’re expecting lots of speed or detailed narration, you might find it a touch subdued.

This tour works best for couples, friends, or anyone looking to enjoy a cozy, scenic experience. If you appreciate good wine, nature, and leisurely waterside views, this cruise is likely to tick your boxes.

• Relaxing, scenic waterway experience with a focus on tranquility and wildlife spotting
• Includes two glasses of wine and a delicious charcuterie perfect for unwinding
• Educational and entertaining guides make wildlife and marina sights come alive
• Limited group size (up to 8) offers a more personalized experience
• Ideal for those seeking a low-key, scenic outing rather than a high-adventure activity
• Booking well in advance (about 12 days) is recommended to secure your spot

What’s the Tour All About?

This 2-hour shared boat cruise takes you through the laid-back water corridors of Marina del Rey, a neighborhood that’s as much about leisure as it is about stunning views. As a fully electric Duffy boat glides smoothly across the waterways, you’ll get a chance to see the marina’s iconic sights—from luxury yachts and houseboats to colorful sailboats and bustling boat houses.

The pace is intentionally relaxed, making it ideal for anyone wanting to take it slow and enjoy the scenery. Unlike some of the more commercialized boat rides in LA, this one emphasizes a chilled atmosphere, where you can truly soak in the environment without feeling rushed. Many reviews highlight the calm, peaceful ride as a major plus, especially after busy city days.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

For $119 per person, you get a reasonably priced two-hour escape that includes two glasses of wine (red or white), a meat and cheese charcuterie board, and fresh fruit and crackers. The wine selection seems to be well-received, with many mentioning the quality of the reds and whites as being quite good for the price. The charcuterie platter is described as a “delicious” accompaniment that adds a touch of indulgence.

Though the tour is quite generous with food and drink, note that parking fees are not included, and there’s no restroom on board, which is something to keep in mind if you have small children or specific needs. The group size is capped at 8 travelers, making it intimate enough for personal conversations but still social.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at 4360 Via Marina, close to public transportation options, making it easy to reach without stressing about parking. Once onboard, your route is primarily within the marina, with the opportunity to spot wildlife such as seals and sea lions. Several reviews mention seeing these adorable creatures, which can be the highlight for animal lovers.

While some reviews note that the boat stays within the marina and moves at a max speed of about 6 mph, this is part of the appeal for most: a gentle cruise rather than a high-speed adventure. It’s about the views, the wildlife, and the relaxed vibe.

Marina del Rey Overview

Situated just six miles north of LAX, Marina del Rey has evolved from a historic estuary to the country’s largest man-made small-craft harbor. Today, it’s where Angelenos come for sunshine, beaches, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere. The tour captures this essence beautifully, giving visitors a chance to soak in the community’s relaxed energy.

What Are Travelers Saying?

The reviews reflect a generally positive experience, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. Many guests praised the guides, especially mentioning Captains Shaun, Michel, and Iiya for their personable and engaging attitudes. One guest noted, “Loved our trip with Capt. Shaun! He was very entertaining and made us see lots of animals,” which underscores how knowledgeable guides can elevate the experience.

The wildlife spotting, especially of sea lions and seals, gets high marks. Guests often mention seeing these creatures up close, which adds an element of charm and fun. One reviewer said, “The sea lions stole the show! So adorable,” capturing how wildlife can be a memorable highlight.

The wine and food also consistently received praise; many described the charcuterie board and wine as well-chosen and delicious, making the cruise feel more indulgent. Some reviews mention the soft background music and gentle ride, creating a relaxing ambiance perfect for conversation or unwinding with a loved one.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic, relaxing escape, friends wanting a fun yet low-key activity, or anyone interested in wildlife and scenic waterways without the hustle and bustle. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a good wine and a tasty snack while enjoying the outdoors.

If you’re looking for a lively, action-packed adventure, this might not be your best fit. But if a peaceful cruise with beautiful views, wildlife sightings, and a glass of wine sounds appealing, then it’s a worthwhile choice.

What Are Some Downsides?

While many guests rave about the experience, some find the ride a bit boring or uneventful. One review simply stated, “The boat goes max 6 mph and stays only in the marina. One spot of sea lions. Boring two hours.” If you expect a fast-paced, event-filled trip, this cruise may not deliver.

Another consideration is the limited narration—some guests felt there was little commentary or storytelling, which might affect those wanting a more educational or informative experience. Plus, the no restroom on board can be inconvenient, especially for longer outings or those with small children.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book early: The tour averages bookings 12 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.
• Arrive prepared: Bring reusable water bottles if you want to stay hydrated, as plastic bottles aren’t used on board.
• Dress comfortably: The ride is gentle and not overly cold, but consider layers if you’re sensitive to wind or breeze.
• Bring a camera: The wildlife and views are photo-worthy, and some reviews mentioned drone footage and photos as lovely extras.
• Expect a slow, scenic ride: Don’t go expecting high speeds or lots of narration—this is about relaxing and enjoying the surroundings.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise with good company, tasty snacks, and the chance to see sea lions and seabirds, this tour offers good value for the price. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the informative guides help bring the sights to life. The wine and charcuterie elevate the experience, making it feel special without being overly fancy.

It’s a perfect outing for those who want to unwind and enjoy nature in a comfortable setting. If you’re craving an adventure with adrenaline or lots of narration, you might find this too subdued. But for a relaxed afternoon in Marina del Rey, it’s a solid choice.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience mainly appeals to adults who enjoy a calm, scenic cruise. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but older children who can sit comfortably for two hours and appreciate wildlife might enjoy it.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll be served two glasses of wine (red or white) as part of the package. Extra drinks aren’t included, but guests can enjoy the provided wine and snacks during the cruise.

What if I want a different time or date?
Booking should be done about 12 days in advance, as most travelers find the tours fill up quickly. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip if your plans change.

Is parking free?
Parking fees are not included in the price, so plan accordingly, especially if you’re arriving during peak times.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While outside food and drinks aren’t mentioned as prohibited, the tour provides a charcuterie board and wine, so it’s best to enjoy what’s offered. Bringing your own alcohol isn’t specified, so check with the provider if needed.

What wildlife might I see?
Sea lions, seals, and a variety of coastal birds are common sightings. Several reviews highlight how close guests got to these animals, making it a highlight for animal lovers.

Final word

This electric boat cruise in Marina del Rey offers a peaceful, scenic retreat with the bonus of good wine, tasty snacks, and wildlife encounters. It’s ideal for those wanting a laid-back, intimate experience and is especially suited for couples or groups of friends. While it won’t satisfy thrill-seekers or those looking for detailed narration, it’s a lovely way to unwind and soak in the LA coast from a different perspective.