In the Belmont Shores area of Long Beach, you'll find Venetian gondolas gliding through the canals. The gondoliers are garbed in traditional straw hats and striped shirts, and serenade their passengers in both Italian and English. Each boat is designed to hold between two and 14 people. As of early 2010, cruises run about an hour, cost $75 per couple, and small plates of salamis, cheeses, hummus and fruit run $3--$5. Reservations are suggested three weeks in advance.
Gondola Getaways
5437 E. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90803
562-433-9595
gondo.net
Traditional elegance is what the Hornblower Cruise is all about. The multi-deck yacht is elegant; the menu traditional. (Think croissants, eggs, carving station and fresh fruit.) It'll set you back $55 as of March 2010, but both the buffet and the champagne are all-you-can-fit during the two-hour harbor tour. Special dining cruises for events like Easter and Mother's Day are also offered.
Rainbow Harbor
100 E. Shoreline Dr.
Long Beach, CA 90802
310-301-6000
hornblower.com
If you prefer your yacht experience more on the exclusive side, and your schedule on the late side, flirt with Corks Away. Aboard the 1961 vintage sailboat "Wildflower," you'll be served a liquid lunch of mimosas at the oh-so-easy to roll out of bed for time of 2:45 p.m. The champagne and orange juice cocktails are paired with pesto appetizers. You and your significant other can enjoy a private cruise. As of early 2010, this option is $130.
Corks Away
194 Marina Dr.
Long Beach, CA
562-606-4546
corksaway.com
