Enjoy San Diego’s iconic Parade of Lights from your own private boat charter. Celebrate the holiday season in exclusive comfort and style on the bay.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, as the charter involves mostly sitting and light movement on the boat.
Wildlife
History
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights started in 1972 and has grown into a beloved holiday tradition featuring decorated boats of all sizes.
Conservation
Seaforth Boat Rentals promotes eco-friendly boating practices to help protect San Diego Bay’s delicate marine ecosystems.
Seaforth Boat Rentals
Enjoy San Diego’s iconic Parade of Lights from your own private boat charter. Celebrate the holiday season in exclusive comfort and style on the bay.
Seaforth Boat Rentals is a San Diego-based watercraft rental company offering kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rafts, and specialty boats across Mission Bay, Coronado, Downtown and Harbor Island. The fleet includes single and tandem kayaks, Lily Pad rafts, the eye-catching Pretty Pink Duffy and Pretty Pink Boat, a Limo Boat for downtown excursions, and guided Sunset Sail departures requiring a local USCG licensed captain.
Trips and rentals suit families, couples, solo paddlers, and small groups with one- and two-hour options for kayak and paddleboard rentals. Guided options such as the Blue Bridge Kayak Tour and Coronado bridge excursions provide local insight and safe navigation beneath iconic landmarks. Life jackets are provided for every rental to ensure safety.
Seaforth Boat Rentals emphasizes accessible, no-fuss experiences: easy online booking, flexible launch locations, and equipment briefings for beginners. Boats may be rented with or without a licensed captain depending on the vessel and experience level. The Pretty Pink Boat and other captain-required charters offer optional captains for guests who prefer a hands-off outing.
Customer comfort and safety are priorities; staff provide orientation, route suggestions, and emergency procedures before every departure. Seaforth Boat Rentals works to create memorable, picture-ready outings on San Diego waters, from serene Mission Bay paddles to vibrant Harbor Island sunsets, appealing to visitors and locals seeking a reliable, fun day on the water. Flexible durations, friendly orientation, and shore-side parking options make planning simple, while experienced staff recommend routes tailored to weather, tides, and group ability levels.
Tours Offered
11
Kayaks, SUPs, rafts, charters and boats
Service Areas
Mission Bay & Coronado
Multiple launch locations
Family Friendly
Yes
Suitable for adults and families
Rental Durations
1–2 hours
Flexible short trips
Reserve a kayak, SUP, or a captained sunset sail now — weekend slots fill up quickly.
Dress Warmly
Evenings on the bay can get chilly during the Parade of Lights, so bring layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera
Capture the stunning illuminated boats and skyline views, but be sure to use a stable surface or tripod for clearer photos.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Secure your spot by arriving early; this also allows time to get settled and enjoy the pre-parade views.
Check Weather Conditions
San Diego weather can vary; monitoring forecasts helps ensure smooth sailing and maximum comfort during the trip.
Layered Clothing
Keeps you warm during cool nighttime temperatures on the water.
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Binoculars
Helps you get a closer look at the decorated boats and distant skyline.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from sudden winds or light sprays from the bay.
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Camera or Smartphone
Allows you to capture the parade’s vibrant lights and festive moments.