Whether you’re a local wanting to get out on the water or a visitor eager to explore the coast, LA Waterfront Cruises delivers unforgettable moments for all ages. Our boat tours provide a thrilling way to connect with the ocean. Have close encounters with marine wildlife, get panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline, and listen to guided narration that brings the harbor’s history to life.
Los Angeles is well known for its gorgeous beaches. However, most visitors don’t realize that the area is also a gateway to the Pacific Ocean, which means our home waters are teeming with unique marine wildlife and recognizable landmarks.
LA Waterfront Cruises has been offering unforgettable whale watching and harbor tour experiences for over 20 years. Based out of San Pedro and Long Beach, we are proud to be one of the top-rated marine tour companies in Southern California. Our family-owned business is built on a love for the ocean and a commitment to delivering safe, educational, and exciting adventures on the water.
Every cruise is guided by marine educators trained by the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Spot blue and gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Tours depart daily from Long Beach and San Pedro, spots that are both minutes from downtown LA.
Our practices prioritize the well-being of marine life and their habitat. Our goal is to ensure a responsible and environmentally friendly experience for all.
Discover the sights, history, and marine life of the Los Angeles waterfront with an unforgettable boat ride in Los Angeles from LA Waterfront Cruises. Our guided tours offer unmatched views of the city’s bustling port, historic landmarks, and natural beauty, giving you a fresh perspective on Southern California’s largest harbor. Whether you’re a local exploring your own backyard or a visitor looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, our boat rides in Los Angeles combine comfort, scenery, and expert narration into one memorable outing.
Our Los Angeles boat tours showcase the special character of the Port of Los Angeles, one of the busiest and most important shipping hubs in the world. From the moment we leave the dock, you’ll be treated to a fascinating mix of old and new—from massive cargo ships navigating deep-water channels to historic waterfront buildings that tell the story of the city’s maritime past.
Highlights may include:
Our Port of Los Angeles harbor tours provide the perfect vantage point for photos while our captains share insider stories about the sights along the way.
It’s not just the landmarks that make boat trips to Los Angeles special—wildlife often makes an appearance too. Keep an eye out for California sea lions basking on buoys, harbor seals gliding through the water, and seabirds circling overhead. During certain times of year, dolphins may also be spotted near the harbor entrance, adding an exciting element to your trip.
Our Los Angeles harbor tours offer a safe and comfortable way to observe these animals in their natural environment while learning about the region’s efforts to protect local marine habitats.
From the water, you’ll see the Los Angeles waterfront in a way that’s impossible from land. The port’s impressive scale is set against the backdrop of the city and nearby hills, with working vessels of all sizes passing by throughout the tour. Evening departures provide a chance to watch the skyline and Vincent Thomas Bridge light up, making for an especially scenic boat cruise in Los Angeles.
Every boat ride in Los Angeles is operated aboard a modern vessel with spacious decks, comfortable seating, and clear sightlines for every guest. Our captains and crew bring years of experience and local knowledge, ensuring that your trip is both informative and enjoyable.
From the history of the port’s development to the engineering behind its infrastructure, you’ll learn something new on every cruise. We welcome questions and encourage guests to engage with the crew for a more personalized tour.
Our Los Angeles boat tours appeal to a wide range of visitors. Families enjoy the educational and interactive nature of the trips, photographers find endless inspiration, and couples appreciate the romance of sunset departures. Group bookings are also available for school trips, tour operators, or special events.
Standard Los Angeles harbor tours typically last 45 minutes to an hour, making them easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Multiple daily departures give you flexibility, and our convenient location makes it simple to pair your boat ride with nearby attractions in San Pedro or along the waterfront.
For those seeking a more tailored experience, private charters can be arranged to customize the route, narration, and duration of your trip.
Our tours depart from the Port of Los Angeles, with easy access to parking, dining, and shopping. You’ll be within walking distance of attractions like the USS Iowa Museum and the LA Waterfront promenade.
Whether you’re drawn to the city’s maritime history, intrigued by the workings of one of the busiest ports in the world, or simply want to enjoy the fresh air and views, our boat rides in Los Angeles deliver an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Reserve your spot today and see why our boat cruises Los Angeles are a must-do for visitors and locals alike.