Yacht Charters & Malibu Voyages with Calico Yacht Charter - Los Angeles

Yacht Charters & Malibu Voyages with Calico Yacht Charter

Los Angeleseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking.

Overview

Set sail from Marina del Rey aboard Calico Yacht Charter’s elegant fleet for unforgettable day trips, sunset cruises, and Malibu voyages. Dive into unique marine encounters and coastal views crafted to fit every itinerary.

Details

Marina del Rey, California, offers a distinct gateway to the Pacific’s vast, shimmering expanse, and Calico Yacht Charter delivers an unmatched maritime experience here. Operating from one of the world’s largest man-made small craft harbors, their fleet of finely maintained vessels—most notably the 40ft “Calico” and the 50ft “Alokoy”—marries comfort with coastal adventure on the Southern California coast.

Whether you’re drawn to a quick 2-hour cruise or a full-day Catalina Island voyage, Calico Yacht Charter creates tailored experiences that harness the natural beauty and diversity of the region. Sunset specials provide breathtaking views as the sun dips behind the Santa Monica Mountains, turning the water a molten gold. For surf lovers, the Little Dume Surf Trip offers access to Malibu’s renowned breaks from an uncommon vantage point, far from the crowded shore.

Distinctive features include frequent encounters with dolphins, escorting you through calm, clear waters rich with marine life. Emerald Bay and Catalina Island stand out as prime destinations thanks to their unique coastal geology—rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and kelp forests that cling to the rocky seabed. These vibrant waters invite paddleboarding and swimming amid scenic isolation rarely found so close to Los Angeles.

Captains like Colin and Daniel combine expert local knowledge with warm hospitality, ensuring every onboard moment is seamless—from personalized celebrations like marriage proposals to family birthdays. Clean, spacious, and well-appointed yachts add to the reliability and style of each trip, making Calico Yacht Charter not just a rental service but a key part of the outdoor recreation scene here.

This company champions quality and comfort while opening the ocean’s wonders for visitors and locals alike, proving that true coastal adventure can be both accessible and extraordinary on California’s iconic coastline.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Peak Times

Popular charters like sunset cruises and Catalina day trips fill quickly, so reserve your spot well in advance.

Bring Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Even on cloudy days, UV reflection off water can cause sunburn; protect your skin and eyes.

Wear Non-Slip Shoes

Deck surfaces can be slick, so wearing proper footwear helps maintain footing and safety onboard.

Pack Light, Waterproof Gear

Small waterproof bags or dry sacks protect valuables during paddleboarding or near splash zones.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Emerald Bay’s quiet coves for paddleboarding
  • Little Dume’s remote surf spots accessible only by boat

Wildlife

  • Common dolphin pods often swim alongside the yacht
  • Occasional sea lions sunbathe on coastal rocks

History

Marina del Rey was completed in the 1960s as a planned harbor, evolving into a premier recreational boating destination.

Conservation

Calico Yacht Charter promotes sustainable boating practices, minimizing fuel use and encouraging wildlife respect around protected marine areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning light
Overcast afternoons for soft shadows

Best Viewpoints

  • Deck bow for open ocean panoramas
  • Santa Monica Mountains skyline from the harbor entrance
  • Catalina Island’s rugged cliffs

What to Photograph

Dolphin pods in motion
Sunsets behind Malibu hills
Detail shots of yacht rigging and passengers

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin from sun exposure on open water.

summer specific

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare and enhances visibility on the water.

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Essential

Keeps you warm against ocean breezes and cooler temperatures.

spring specific

Non-Slip Shoes

Essential

Provides traction on wet decks for safety.

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