By Gisela Moriarty
Marina del Rey is 50 years old this year, and the L.A. County Department of Beaches and Harbors is giving the public a birthday present: a 45-minute cruise around the Marina for $1.00. This is the largest man-made small craft harbor in North America, and chances are there’s a lot of it that you haven’t seen. Equally interesting is the history of this scenic area.
Thanks to narration by the boat’s captain, you’ll find out about that, as well as recreational and leisure options on and off the water. Ever dreamed of learning to sail, paddleboard, kayak? You can do that here. Ever dreamed of having your own yacht? You can do that here, or at least enjoy the thrill of looking at someone else’s. Spotting birds and sea life, this is the place. Waterside dining and concerts, too. Not interested in any of that? You still can’t beat a relaxing ride around a big harbor for a buck.
Hourly cruises through Sept. 7 start Fridays, 11 a.m., Saturdays, Sundays, and Labor Day, 10 a.m. Last run starts at 1 p.m. Tickets are only available at the dock: Hornblower Cruises, 13755 Fiji Way. Lines can be long, so arriving at least 30 minutes ahead is recommended.
Details and information on all anniversary activities are available at www.mdr50.com. The year-round resource for Marina visitors is: info@VisitMarinaDelRey.com. The phone number for both is 310-305-9545.
