Float out of the marina and into Santa Monica Bay aboard a private yacht where curated hors d'oeuvres, close wildlife sightings, and the rhythm of the Pacific shape a restorative 2–3 hour escape. Learn what to pack, how the coast was formed, and practical tips for making the most of this serene cruise.
Float out of the marina and into Santa Monica Bay aboard a private yacht where curated hors d'oeuvres, close wildlife sightings, and the rhythm of the Pacific shape a restorative 2–3 hour escape. Learn what to pack, how the coast was formed, and practical tips for making the most of this serene cruise.
The hull breathes as you step aboard Prima Stella and the city noise thins to the rhythm of the Pacific. Salt and citrus drift across the deck while the marina slips astern; gulls wheel and a distant Ferris wheel punctuates the skyline. Over the next two to three hours you move between the protective basin of Marina del Rey and the open sweep of Santa Monica Bay, where the ocean sets the tempo.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Old Plank Adventures & Aquatic Expeditions · Marina del Rey, California
The hull breathes as you step aboard Prima Stella and the city noise thins to the rhythm of the Pacific. Salt and citrus drift across the deck while the marina slips astern; gulls wheel and a distant Ferris wheel punctuates the skyline. Over the next two to three hours you move between the protective basin of Marina del Rey and the open sweep of Santa Monica Bay, where the ocean sets the tempo.
This coastline was home to the Tongva people long before Marina del Rey was engineered into the largest man-made small craft harbor in the U.S. in the 1960s. Geology here is straightforward: sandy beaches backed by the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu’s sandstone bluffs carving the shore—features that shape wind patterns and wave sets experienced on any coastal cruise. Local culture is a mosaic of surf communities, seafood kitchens, and low-key coastal luxury; on this private charter you’ll pass Venice’s bohemian stretch, the Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu’s celebrity-lined cliffs.
Practically speaking, expect calm to moderate seas within the bay, with more breeze as you round toward Malibu. The trip includes a USCG-licensed captain, fuel, insurance, hors d’oeuvres and a bottle of rosé (non-alcoholic options provided). Bring a windproof layer, non-slip shoes, and sun protection; if you’re prone to motion sickness, plan accordingly. Docking fees and California taxes are collected day-of. Aim for late afternoon for softer light and active marine life—dolphins and pelicans are common companions. This is a sensory, low-effort outing built around relaxation and coastal observation rather than strenuous activity.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to step on/off a low ladder and move around a small deck recommended
The charter includes the private yacht (Prima Stella), a USCG-licensed captain, fuel, liability insurance, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, a bottle of rosé, non-alcoholic drinks, and onboard restroom facilities.
Yes—Los Angeles County commercial docking fees and California state taxes are collected on the day of sailing and are not included in the base price.
The operator lists wheelchair accessibility and accessible surfaces, but you should contact the captain ahead of time to confirm specific boarding assistance and arrangements.
All sales are final per the provider; trips may be canceled for weather at the operator’s discretion—no refunds are available for customer cancellations.
The Tongva people lived along this coast for millennia; Marina del Rey was constructed in the 1960s and became one of the country’s largest man-made small craft harbors.
Avoid feeding wildlife, pack out single-use plastics, and respect kelp beds—nearshore ecosystems are sensitive and subject to ongoing restoration efforts.
Old Plank Adventures & Aquatic Expeditions operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The hull breathes as you step aboard Prima Stella and the city noise thins to the rhythm of the Pacific. Salt and citrus drift across the deck while the marina slips astern; gulls wheel and a distant Ferris wheel punctuates the skyline. Over the next two to three hours you move between the protective basin of Marina del Rey and the open sweep of Santa Monica Bay, where the ocean sets the tempo.
The hull breathes as you step aboard Prima Stella and the city noise thins to the rhythm of the Pacific. Salt and citrus drift across the deck while the marina slips astern; gulls wheel and a distant Ferris wheel punctuates the skyline. Over the next two to three hours you move between the protective basin of Marina del Rey and the open sweep of Santa Monica Bay, where the ocean sets the tempo.
This coastline was home to the Tongva people long before Marina del Rey was engineered into the largest man-made small craft harbor in the U.S. in the 1960s. Geology here is straightforward: sandy beaches backed by the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu’s sandstone bluffs carving the shore—features that shape wind patterns and wave sets experienced on any coastal cruise. Local culture is a mosaic of surf communities, seafood kitchens, and low-key coastal luxury; on this private charter you’ll pass Venice’s bohemian stretch, the Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu’s celebrity-lined cliffs.
Practically speaking, expect calm to moderate seas within the bay, with more breeze as you round toward Malibu. The trip includes a USCG-licensed captain, fuel, insurance, hors d’oeuvres and a bottle of rosé (non-alcoholic options provided). Bring a windproof layer, non-slip shoes, and sun protection; if you’re prone to motion sickness, plan accordingly. Docking fees and California taxes are collected day-of. Aim for late afternoon for softer light and active marine life—dolphins and pelicans are common companions. This is a sensory, low-effort outing built around relaxation and coastal observation rather than strenuous activity.