Half-Day on a Lagoon: A Private Catamaran Escape from Marina del Rey
All Ages • 6 Hours • Up to 12 Guests
The harbor light in Marina del Rey hits the polished aluminum of a 42-foot hull and it looks less like a boat and more like a private room with a view. You step aboard and the bustle of Los Angeles — freeways, surf crowds, the city’s distant hum — falls away. The LEI 42' Lagoon Catamaran slices two hulls through a calm Pacific with the kind of steady, confident glide that invites you to breathe out and slow down. Over six hours, this is not just a ride; it’s a curated, ocean-side living room where conversations stretch, champagne glasses clink, and the water dares you to remember how wide the world feels from the bow.
Trail Wisdom
Layer Up for Changing Conditions
Start with a light base layer and a windproof jacket; ocean mornings can be cool even on hot days.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen liberally — reflections from the water increase sun exposure.
Secure Valuables in a Dry Bag
Stow phones and cameras in a small dry bag when off the swim platform to avoid saltwater damage.
Ask About Wildlife Windows
Talk with the crew about the best windows for sightings — they monitor local patterns and will optimize the route.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sheltered coves north of the harbor for calm paddleboarding
- •Quiet anchorage spots for a private swim near Santa Monica Bay
Wildlife
Common dolphin, Gray whale (seasonal)
Conservation Note
Avoid anchoring on eelgrass beds, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow crew guidance to minimize disturbance to marine mammals.
Marina del Rey was developed in the 1960s on reclaimed wetlands and is among the largest man-made small-boat harbors in North America.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Whale Watching, Mild Temperatures, Dolphin Sightings
Challenges: Chilly Mornings, Occasional Windy Days
Spring brings migrating whales and lively dolphin pods, though early mornings can be cool and breezy.
summer
Best for: Calm Seas, Warm Afternoons, Paddleboarding
Challenges: Sun Exposure, Peak Demand For Charters
Summer offers warm water and predictable weather — ideal for paddling and swimming off the stern.
fall
Best for: Stable Conditions, Golden Light, Quiet Marinas
Challenges: Variable Afternoon Winds
Fall is often the most pleasant season: warm days, calm seas, and fewer crowds.
winter
Best for: Gray Whale Migration, Dramatic Light, Clear Air
Challenges: Cool Temps, Shorter Days
Winter is prime for whale migration sightings; dress warmer and plan for earlier sunset returns.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Windproof LayerEssential
Blocks breeze while staying breathable on deck.
Dry Bag (waterproof pouch)Essential
Protects electronics and valuables from spray and accidental submersion.
Polarizing SunglassesEssential
Reduces glare off the water and improves visibility for spotting wildlife.
Daypack with Snacks & Water Bottle
Handy for personal items, hydration, and quick on-deck snacks between catered courses.
Common Questions
How many guests can this charter accommodate?
The LEI 42' Lagoon Catamaran accommodates up to 12 guests for a 3/4 day charter.
Is catering available?
Yes — concierge services include catering coordination, grocery shopping, plating, and cleanup upon request.
Do I need prior boating experience?
No. The crew handles navigation and safety; guests need only follow briefings and wear provided life jackets when instructed.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include dolphins year-round and migrating gray whales in winter and spring; seabirds and occasional sea lions are also typical.
Where do we board?
Boarding is in Marina del Rey; a concierge typically greets guests in the parking area and escorts them aboard.
Is tipping customary for the crew?
Yes — a 15–20% tip is standard for a well-run private charter, especially when concierge services are provided.
What to Pack
Sunglasses (polarized for glare reduction); Windproof jacket (layering for marine breezes); Reef-safe sunscreen (protect skin and ocean life); Dry bag (keep valuables safe from spray).
Did You Know
Marina del Rey sits adjacent to the Ballona Wetlands, one of the last significant coastal wetlands in Los Angeles County and a critical habitat for migratory birds.
Quick Travel Tips
Park in paid Marina del Rey lots; LAX is the closest airport (10 minutes); Arrive 20 minutes early for boarding; Bring ID for check-in and any liquor purchased onboard.
Local Flavor
After disembarking, head to Fisherman's Village for waterfront seafood (Tony P's Dockside Grill is a local favorite) or drive 10 minutes to Venice’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard for craft coffee, tacos, and a lively craft-beer scene.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: LAX (approx. 7–12 minutes). Boarding: Marina del Rey harbor. Driving distance: Downtown Santa Monica ~10 minutes. Cell service: good near shore, limited in open ocean. Permits: none required for private charter—operator manages all vessel paperwork and safety certificates.
Sustainability Note
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid single-use plastics onboard, and follow crew instructions to reduce disturbance to marine mammals and sensitive shoreline habitats.
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