San Clemente, California

Located in Long Beach, California, the Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner turned award-winning hotel that offers a distinctive blend of maritime heritage and contemporary hospitality. Renowned for its Art Deco design and storied past, the ship provides guests with a unique opportunity to experience history firsthand while enjoying modern comforts. The Queen Mary stands out for its combination of elegant accommodations, diverse dining options, and immersive tours that highlight both its rich legacy and paranormal lore. This iconic vessel serves as a cultural landmark where visitors can engage with the past in an authentic and captivating setting. The Queen Mary offers a variety of experiences tailored to different interests, including historic and paranormal tours, seasonal events, and elegant meeting and event spaces. Guests can choose from a range of staterooms and suites, each featuring period-inspired decor alongside modern amenities and ocean views. Dining options aboard the ship range from casual cafes to fine dining venues, such as the Royal Sunday Brunch and the Art Deco Lounge, which provide scenic views of Long Beach. Whether attending a business meeting, celebrating a wedding, or exploring the ship’s storied halls, visitors encounter a sophisticated atmosphere that seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary luxury.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in Dana Point, CA is one of Southern California’s most iconic ocean adventure providers and the oldest whale watching company in Orange County. Departing daily from Dana Point Harbor, Dana Wharf offers a wide variety of experiences including whale watching tours, dolphin watching, sportfishing trips, private charters, harbor cruises, specialty cruises, and group events. With over 50 years of history and thousands of five-star reviews, Dana Wharf is recognized as one of the top destinations for marine excursions in Orange County. Dana Point is known as the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®, and Dana Wharf delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters year-round. Their popular two-hour whale and dolphin watching tours regularly feature sightings of blue whales, gray whales, humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and occasionally orcas, along with large pods of dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life. For guests seeking a longer experience, Dana Wharf also offers specialty whale watching trips, including extended tours and private whale watching charters with personalized narration from experienced naturalists. Vessels are designed for comfort and viewing, featuring open decks, indoor seating, and knowledgeable crews who provide educational commentary throughout the trip. Dana Wharf is also a premier destination for sportfishing in Southern California, offering trips for all experience levels. Options include half-day, twilight, three-quarter day, full-day, overnight, and multi-day fishing trips targeting popular species such as tuna, yellowtail, halibut, rockfish, bass, bonito, and more. Family-friendly fishing trips, kids fishing clinics, summer camps, and private sportfishing charters make Dana Wharf a versatile option for families, beginners, corporate groups, and serious anglers alike. All vessels are Coast Guard inspected, fully equipped with quality gear, and operated by experienced captains and crew who know the best local fishing grounds. In addition to fishing and whale watching, Dana Wharf offers harbor cruises, wine cruises, holiday events, private yacht charters, and special group experiences, making it one of the most comprehensive boating and tour operators in the region. Conveniently located at 34675 Golden Lantern in Dana Point, just minutes from Laguna Beach, San Clemente, Newport Beach, and within easy driving distance of Los Angeles and San Diego, Dana Wharf is a top choice for anyone searching for whale watching in Dana Point, sportfishing charters in Orange County, or unforgettable coastal adventures in Southern California.

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.

Located in Dana Point, California, the Ocean Institute offers a unique educational experience focused on marine science and maritime history. With decades of expertise, the institute uses the ocean as a dynamic classroom to inspire curiosity and foster a deep commitment to learning. Its award-winning programs combine hands-on activities with immersive environments, making it a distinctive destination for visitors interested in ocean exploration and environmental awareness. The institute’s access to the Pacific Ocean and its historic research vessels enhance the authenticity and engagement of its offerings. The Ocean Institute provides a variety of activities including whale and marine life cruises aboard the R/V Sea Explorer, sailing excursions on the Spirit of Dana Point, and interactive field trips tailored for students of all ages. These programs range from historical reenactments to robotics projects for undersea exploration, designed to engage learners in both indoor and outdoor settings. Weekend public admission allows families and individuals to explore interactive tours and educational exhibits, while the Laurena G. Chambers Gallery Gift Shop offers ocean-themed merchandise supporting the institute’s mission. Overall, the experience combines education with adventure, appealing to students, educators, and ocean enthusiasts alike.

Alana Yacht Rental is San Diego's newest catamaran offering ticketed 2.5-hour San Diego Bay cruises for up to 35 guests at $45 per ticket, including captain, crew, and bartender, with a full bar for drinks purchase. Private yacht rentals accommodate 1-35 guests at $450/hr for 1-25 guests or $550/hr for 26-35 guests, bookable for 2-8 hours with custom routes, located at 2700 Shelter Island Drive on the commercial dock behind Ketch Grill and Taps. Features include 2 decks, modern bathrooms, seating, entertainment, and safety equipment.

Catalina Classic Cruises is a well-established maritime charter company based in Long Beach, California, operating from Pier D Street near the historic Queen Mary. With a legacy dating back to 1969 as a subsidiary of Crowley Maritime Inc., the company has extensive experience in providing reliable and comfortable passenger vessel services. Their fleet includes six passenger vessels of various sizes, including the flagship Catalina King, which can accommodate up to 550 guests. The company is known for its dedication to safety, comfort, and quality customer service, continuing a tradition of excellence in ferrying passengers to Catalina Island and navigating the scenic harbors of Long Beach and Los Angeles. The company offers a diverse range of services including private charters, harbor cruises, dance parties, corporate events, holiday celebrations, and camp charters to Catalina Island camps. Guests can enjoy up-close views of landmarks such as the Queen Mary and USS Iowa while cruising through the ports. Each vessel features large open decks for optimal viewing and comfort, with food, snacks, and fully stocked bar options available. Whether hosting weddings, concerts, or birthday parties, the experienced crew ensures a memorable experience tailored to all ages and event types, making Catalina Classic Cruises a premier choice for maritime excursions in Southern California.

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.

Classic Journeys, headquartered in La Jolla, California, is a distinguished travel company specializing in handcrafted cultural walking tours across more than 60 regions in 30 countries worldwide. Founded in 1995 by Edward Piegza, the company has earned a reputation as the world’s finest walking tour operator, recognized multiple times by Travel + Leisure and other prestigious organizations. What sets this company apart is its commitment to immersive, authentic experiences conducted on foot at eye level, facilitated by well-connected local guides who provide insider access and personalized attention. Classic Journeys combines the intimacy of small groups with thoughtfully paced itineraries, boutique accommodations, and exclusive cultural encounters, ensuring travelers engage deeply with each destination. The company offers a diverse range of tours and activities tailored to various interests, including culinary explorations, wildlife encounters, historical journeys, and multi-adventure experiences such as whitewater rafting, glacier walking, and camel riding. All necessary equipment and expert guides are included at no extra cost, allowing guests to fully participate without unexpected fees. Travelers can choose from scheduled small group departures or customize private trips to suit their preferences and schedules. The guides, often natives of the regions visited, bring local knowledge and personal connections that open doors to unique experiences, from private home visits to off-the-beaten-path excursions. This approach ensures that every journey is not only memorable but also enriched by genuine cultural interactions and expert guidance.

Prince Charters, LLC is a family-owned boat rental business located in Huntington Beach, California, with a rich history dating back to 1965. Founded by Dr. Gilbert Prince and now operated by his grandchild, Captain Doug, the company has become a local staple known for its professional service and memorable harbor cruises. The fleet includes three Coast Guard inspected vessels: a luxury yacht, a classic wood boat from the 1940s, and a 26-foot Duffy-style boat, each offering unique features such as all-wood interiors, spacious seating, and modern amenities. This combination of experience, quality equipment, and personalized service distinguishes Prince Charters as a premier choice for private boat charters in the area. The company offers private charters ranging from 1.5 to 4 hours, accommodating groups from 12 to 30 passengers, making it suitable for a variety of occasions including social gatherings, corporate events, and celebrations. Guests can enjoy a relaxing cruise through the calm waters of Huntington Harbour aboard vessels like the Alexandria, a beautifully restored classic wood boat with teak interiors, or the Journey luxury yacht featuring an all-wood salon and bar room. Each charter includes a licensed captain, with the luxury yacht also staffed by a first mate, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Additional amenities include Bluetooth stereo systems, options for sun or shade seating, and blankets for cooler weather, allowing guests to customize their outing while taking in scenic harbor views.