Wednesday, July 7, 2010

10 WAYS TO GET ON THE WATER IN MARINA DEL REY


While the sun is still hiding from us, it can’t stay away! When the sun begins to blaze, try something new this summer and cool off in the Marina -- one of the only places in Los Angeles that gives you immediate access to the Pacific Ocean.  Here are a few ways you can get on the water to enjoy the view and the coastal breeze, too!
  1. Kayaks- Rent a kayak for the day, or sign up for lessons with the UCLA Marine Aquatic Center or Action Watersports. A relaxing and easy way to enjoy the Marina from the water, while getting some exercise too.
  2. Jet Ski- Fast and fun, you are guaranteed an adrenaline-filled afternoon if you choose to rent a jet ski. Rent one from Marina del Rey Boat Rentals.
  3. Chartered Sail- Organize an outing with a small group of friends and enjoy a day or a half-day on the water. Bring some refreshments of your choice, snacks and your best nautical outfit.  You will find it peaceful on the water as you clip along without the aid of a motor. Charter a boat with: Paradise Bound Yacht Charters, Blue Water Sailing , Blue Pacific Boating or Marina Sailing.
  4. Rowing- UCLA Marine Aquatic Center offers rowing classes.  In Sculling I-I, you will learn basic sculling technique, rowing theory and equipment handling in one-person rowing shells. Great exercise, and since class ends at 8:30 a.m. on weekdays, you can even make it to work on time!
  5. Cruise- Hornblower Cruises & Events is synonymous with cruising in Marina del Rey. Every Saturday and Sunday, hop on a Hornblower boat for a 45 minute harbor tour. The tours leave every hour from noon to 5 p.m. Looking for a more intimate time? Hornblower also offers dinner dance cruises, and other dining experiences on the water.
  6. Duffy- Simple to operate, the electric Duffy is recommended for boaters of all levels. Relax at the end of the day, or enjoy an afternoon exploring the Marina. Duffies are available from Marina del Rey Boat Rentals.
  7. Stand-Up Paddleboard- On a stand-up paddleboard, you will be walking on water. This unique combination of balancing and paddling guarantees a fun morning or afternoon in the sun.  Take a lesson from Action Watersports or rent one from Marina del Rey Boat Rentals.
  8. Motorboat- Marina del Rey Boat Rentals offers motorboats for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Some will enjoy the 17’ in-harbor powerboat that is an excellent choice for a smooth cruise around the Marina. Others will like the 115 horsepower center-console powerboat that is perfect for day fishing or coastal sightseeing. How fast you want to go…is up to you!
  9. Summer Waterbus- The WaterBus is a weekend/holiday summer water shuttle (late June thru Labor Day) that boards at seven Marina locations such as Burton W. Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, Marina Harbor and Waterfront Walk. The fee is $1 each way per person.
  10. Fishing Trip with Captain Rick- An enjoyable choice for the whole family. Set sail with your very own tour guide of Santa Monica Bay’s plethora of gamefish. Catch your dinner and enjoy great coastal views aboard the boats of Marina del Rey Sportfishing with Capt. Rick!