Located in Newport Beach, California, Newport Whales offers over 20 years of experience in providing exceptional whale watching adventures along the Southern California coast. The company operates from a prime location in Orange County, just minutes from Los Angeles, granting easy access to one of the largest marine protected parks near Newport Bay. This unique positioning allows guests to observe a diverse array of marine life, including giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales, dolphins, seals, and more, often within minutes of departure. The knowledgeable crew provides engaging narration throughout the trip, enhancing the educational and entertaining aspects of the experience. Newport Whales offers daily whale watching cruises year-round, with trips lasting approximately two to two and a half hours. Seasonal highlights include the gray whale migration from December through April and sightings of blue whales, finback whales, and large pods of dolphins from May through November. The cruises cater to a wide range of customers, including families, schools, churches, and corporate groups, with options for both public tours and private charters. The vessel Nautilus features indoor and outdoor seating, a top observation deck for optimal viewing and photography, and an onboard snack bar, ensuring a comfortable and memorable outing for all participants.

Located in Newport Beach, California, Davey’s Locker offers year-round whale watching and deep-sea fishing excursions just 40 minutes from downtown Los Angeles and minutes from Orange County. Operating from a natural harbor, the company is renowned for its extensive experience and access to over 40 miles of coastal reefs and nearshore waters. With a record of spotting more than 2,100 whales in 2024, the business provides unique opportunities to see humpbacks, gray whales, orcas, and other marine life in their pristine natural habitat. Its combination of a beautiful coastline and abundant marine species makes it a premier destination for oceanic adventures in Southern California. Davey’s Locker caters to both novice and experienced fishermen with 5-6 hour evening deep-sea fishing trips, as well as half-day and overnight whale watching cruises that offer varied and engaging experiences. Services include general admission trips, charter fishing boats, and private boat rentals suitable for groups of all sizes. Each excursion promises a distinctive encounter with marine wildlife, emphasizing the unpredictability and excitement of nature. The company’s offerings appeal to families, fishing enthusiasts, and wildlife observers seeking memorable outings along the Southern California coast.

Located in Newport Beach, California, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a long-standing holiday tradition that dates back over a century. This annual event transforms Newport Harbor into a dazzling display of festive lights and decorations, featuring hundreds of elaborately decorated boats ranging from multimillion-dollar yachts to kayaks and canoes. The parade is complemented by the "Ring of Lights" competition, where bayfront estates and businesses along the bay showcase extravagant holiday displays. Drawing over 1.5 million spectators each season, the parade is recognized as one of the largest and most impressive boat parades in the country, offering a unique blend of maritime celebration and community spirit. The event runs from December 16 to December 20, 2026, with nightly cruises provided by Newport Landing that offer an immersive viewing experience aboard decorated ships. These cruises, lasting 60 to 90 minutes, allow guests to enjoy the parade from the water, taking in both the illuminated vessels and the stunning bayfront homes. With three cruise times each evening, the offerings cater to families, holiday parties, and visitors from across Southern California and beyond. Beyond the parade dates, holiday lights cruises are available nightly from December 4, 2026, through January 1, 2027, providing extended opportunities to experience the festive atmosphere of Newport Bay.

Duffy Electric Boats, based in Adelanto, California, has been a leader in handcrafted electric boats for over 50 years. Renowned for their iconic design, exceptional craftsmanship, and whisper-quiet operation, these boats offer a unique and relaxing boating experience. Each vessel is meticulously built in the USA using high-quality materials and innovative features such as the Duffy Power Rudder™, which allows for precise and effortless maneuvering even in tight spaces. This combination of tradition, quality, and ease of use has made Duffy the most popular electric boat brand in Newport Harbor and beyond. The company offers both boat sales and rentals, catering to a wide range of customers including families, groups celebrating special occasions, and those seeking leisurely cruises in protected waters like harbors, bays, and lakes. Rental locations, such as the original site on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach, provide well-maintained boats equipped with built-in Bluetooth speakers, all-around windows, and capacity for up to 12 passengers. Renters can enhance their experience with add-ons like charcuterie boards and tablescapes, while enjoying the freedom to bring their own food and beverages. With easy-to-drive controls and comprehensive guidance provided before departure, Duffy boats deliver a safe, enjoyable, and memorable outing on the water.

Captain Newport is a premier boat and yacht rental and charter company based in Newport Beach, California. With a reputation bolstered by over 450 five-star reviews, the company offers extensive experience in providing luxury maritime experiences along the coastal waters and to Catalina Island. Their fleet features a diverse range of vessels, including sleek VanDutch models, Sundancers, catamarans, and large Azimut yachts, accommodating groups of up to 120 guests. This variety, combined with professional service and well-maintained equipment, distinguishes them as a top choice for both casual outings and special occasions. The company provides a wide array of rental options, including 3, 4, 6, and 8-hour charters, as well as weekend getaways tailored to different group sizes and preferences. Their offerings cater to private parties, corporate events, and leisure travelers seeking unique coastal experiences. Guests can choose from intimate boats like the 18-foot Duffy for smaller groups or expansive party yachts in Long Beach and San Diego that host up to 120 people. Each charter promises a personalized and memorable journey, supported by experienced crews and premium vessels designed for comfort and style on the water.

Located in Newport Beach, California, Tiki Fun Boats offers a distinctive boating experience on the scenic waters of Newport Harbor. Since its launch in 2020, the company has gained recognition for providing a worry-free alternative to traditional Duffy boat rentals, with experienced captains handling all navigation in the often crowded harbor. The business is owned and operated by a seasoned captain passionate about boating and travel, ensuring each cruise is safe, enjoyable, and memorable. Their custom-built 24-foot pontoon boat, "Tiki Time," features bamboo decor, palm frond shade, and modern amenities, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere for guests. Tiki Fun Boats specializes in private, captain-led tiki boat cruises that accommodate up to six passengers, making it ideal for a variety of occasions such as birthdays, bachelorette parties, family outings, and corporate events. Guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to personalize their experience while cruising the harbor, with opportunities to dock at waterfront spots, anchor for swimming, or simply relax on board. The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth stereo, cooler, swim ladder, and spacious seating, allowing for socializing and comfort throughout the journey. This combination of flexibility, comfort, and attentive service appeals to locals and visitors alike seeking a fun and stress-free day on the water.

Located in Newport Beach, California, Captain America Boat Charters offers a distinguished selection of boat and yacht rentals designed to showcase the scenic beauty of Newport Harbor and its surrounding coastline. With over 15 years of local expertise and leadership from USCG Master Captain Andy Navarro, the company combines professional service with extensive knowledge of the area’s waterways. Their fleet includes electric Duffy boats, double-decker pontoons, and luxury yachts, all equipped to accommodate up to 12 passengers, providing spacious and comfortable seating that exceeds typical rental capacities. What sets this company apart is its commitment to personalized experiences, including unique excursions such as private cove swims, dolphin tours, and exclusive dock-and-dine options at members-only restaurants. The charter services cater to a wide range of customers, from casual day-trippers to those celebrating special occasions like birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, or corporate events. Guests can enjoy diverse activities including harbor cruises past multimillion-dollar estates, fishing trips, sunset dinner cruises, and multi-day voyages to Catalina Island with expert guidance. The company also offers speed boat rentals for thrill-seekers, complete with optional water sports equipment and the option of guided tours. Safety is a priority, with all rentals including necessary equipment and adherence to age and licensing requirements. With convenient access near the Pacific Coast Highway and a reputation for top-tier customer service, these charters provide an exceptional way to explore the natural and luxurious attractions of Newport Beach.

Located in Newport Beach, California, Newport Surfrider offers exceptional whale and dolphin watching tours that showcase the rich marine life of the area. Veteran owned and operated, the company stands out for its experienced captains who are Certified Marine Naturalists with over 20 years of ocean expertise. Guests enjoy the comfort and speed of a state-of-the-art luxury Zodiac vessel, providing a unique and intimate way to explore the waters. The company’s commitment to treating each guest like family adds a personal touch to every excursion, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all backgrounds. Newport Surfrider specializes in private, 2.5-hour tours that combine wildlife observation with narrated cruises through Newport Harbor, one of the largest and most scenic recreational harbors in the United States. These exclusive charters accommodate up to six people, offering a personalized adventure that includes expert commentary on the local environment and history. Whether guests are seeking to spot dolphins and whales or enjoy a relaxing cruise, the tours provide a blend of education, excitement, and comfort. This tailored approach appeals to families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a distinctive maritime experience.