Gondola Cruise and Gourmet Dinner on Newport Harbor

Escape the noise of Los Angeles on a private, Venetian-style boat piloted by a professional gondolier. On this dinner cruise, you will be presented with a three-course hot meal from a local restaurant and a bottle of sparkling cider, San Pelligrino sparkling water or plain bottled water.

With more than 1000 years of practice and tradition, the Venetians have all but perfected the art of making gondolas. Utilizing the simple oar and oarlock mechanism (known as the "Remo e' Forcola" in Italian), these boats glide across placid canals to safely transport goods and people through the water. With these traditions in mind, you romantic gondola ride seeks to recreate the magic of a trip to Venice along the quieter parts of Newport Harbor. Although the area might not have ten centuries of custom and tradition behind the boat rides, it more than makes up for it with beautiful, sunny California weather or scenic, mountainous backdrops.

It is Italian tradition for couples to kiss when passing under bridges, and this 90-minute ride you will pass under at least two as you circle the quieter residential canal areas near the water.