Marina del Rey in 1 Day for Couples - Private yacht charter aboard Prima Stella
In Collaboration with Old Plank Adventures & Aquatic Expeditions . Updated on February 1, 2026.
A private, therapeutic sailing experience aboard Prima Stella with a USCG-licensed captain. Glide from Marina del Rey past Venice and Santa Monica, turn toward Malibu for golden-hour views, enjoy gourmet hors d'oeuvres and a bottle of rosé — perfect for couples seeking a relaxed, intimate sunset on the water.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Old Plank Adventures & Aquatic Expeditions , inspired by the tour Private Therapy Sailing Adventure. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private yacht charter aboard Prima Stella
- Sunset views: Venice Boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier & Malibu coastline
- Gourmet hors d'oeuvres and a bottle of rosé served onboard
Itinerary
Day 1
Late-afternoon private therapeutic sailing: meet at Dock 55 (Marina del Rey), board Prima Stella for a 3‑hour privately chartered sailing route past Venice and Santa Monica, turning out to Malibu for golden hour. Includes gourmet hors d'oeuvres, rosé (non-alcoholic options available). Optional post-cruise dinner in Santa Monica.
Arrive & Check-in — Dock 55 (Meet point)
Meet your captain and crew at Dock 55 in Marina del Rey. Quick paperwork, luggage stow, and seat selection before boarding. Arrive ~30 minutes early to relax and avoid rush-hour parking stress.
Tips from local experts:
- Parking: use the paid lots near Fisherman's Village — allow 10–15 minutes to walk to Dock 55; validate parking with the marina if possible.
- Accessibility/Privacy: there are short, low steps at docks — bring a light shoulder bag rather than big wheeled luggage for easier boarding.
- Romantic prep: bring a lightweight wrap or shawl — the sea breeze cools quickly once the sun dips.
Boarding & Safety Briefing — Old Plank Adventures / Prima Stella
Board the private yacht (Prima Stella). Captain will give a brief safety orientation, seating suggestions, and a short overview of the route for your private therapy sailing.
Tips from local experts:
- Seating: starboard side catches the best sunset-facing views; ask the captain to suggest a private nook if you want more intimacy.
- Motion comfort: captain carries seasickness remedies and will suggest the calmest spot near the center if you are sensitive to motion.
- Communication: let the captain know any mobility needs now — crew can help with step assistance and seating.
Sail Past Venice Boardwalk & Venice Pier — People-watching from Sea
Glide along the coastline to pass Venice Beach's Ocean Front Walk and the Venice Fishing Pier — a unique, quieter vantage point to observe local culture from the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Best views: sit on the side facing shore to watch skateboarders, murals, and the lively boardwalk below without being in the crowd.
- Intimacy hack: ask the crew to lower sail (engine off recommended where safe) for a few minutes of quiet drift — great for a shared, peaceful moment.
- Timing: golden-hour light begins to warm here; request the captain to pause briefly for photos of you two with the pier silhouette.
Sail Past Santa Monica Pier — Iconic Ferris Wheel Views
Approach Santa Monica Pier to view the solar-powered Ferris wheel and bustling pier from the water. Enjoy the glow as the sun edges lower.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden-hour seating: this is an ideal spot to toast — request rosé service just before passing the pier for an iconic backdrop.
- Privacy: the captain can angle the boat slightly offshore to give you a quieter, more private viewing window away from busy pier reflections.
- Photo hint: silhouette shots work best against the Ferris wheel — use portrait mode for intimate couple photos with dramatic sky.
Turn toward Malibu — Sunset & Onboard Gourmet Service (Special Moment)
Make the scenic out-and-back turn toward Malibu. During this stretch the crew will serve gourmet hors d'oeuvres and a bottle of rosé — the planned 'special moment' for couples as you watch the sun set over the coastal hills.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment: coordinate a private song or playlist in advance with the captain for a personalized sunset soundtrack.
- Dietary notes: if you have allergies or dietary preferences, confirm them ahead of time — the chef can often adapt small plates onboard.
- Comfort: evening temperatures drop on the water — share a blanket the crew keeps onboard for cozy moments on deck.
Return Sail to Dock 55 & Disembark
Leisurely sail back into Marina del Rey as twilight deepens; disembark with time to stretch legs and plan the rest of your evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Lighting: marina lights are romantic at dusk — walk a few steps on the dock after disembark for a final quiet moment together.
- Logistics: collect any personal items (camera, jacket) before leaving the boat; crew can assist with step-downs if required.
- Next steps: if you want a late-night stroll, the nearby Fisherman's Village has a gentle, well-lit promenade perfect for a post-cruise walk.
Optional: Post-cruise Romantic Dinner — The Lobster (Santa Monica)
If you want to continue the evening, walk or drive to The Lobster at the entrance to Santa Monica Pier for oceanfront dinner seating — classic, romantic seafood dining to cap the night.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservation: request a window or terrace table when you call — best to reserve in advance for sunset/early-evening seating.
- Timing/transfer: allow ~20–30 minutes to transfer from the marina to the pier area; valet and nearby paid parking available.
- Atmosphere: request a quieter corner or earlier reservation to keep the evening intimate (the restaurant can often accommodate a calm table for couples).
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Attraction, Meal, Restaurant |