Glide Like Venice: A Private Gondola through Long Beach’s Quiet Waterways

LONG BEACH BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Glide Like Venice: A Private Gondola through Long Beach’s Quiet Waterways

A 50‑minute private gondola cruise for up to 14 people with two professional gondoliers — book by phone at 562‑433‑9595 to reserve this intimate waterfront experience.

Glide Like Venice: A Private Gondola through Long Beach’s Quiet Waterways.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Long Beach
Operator
Gondola Getaway
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

The Grand Venetian delivers a private, low‑speed cruise across the sheltered waters of Long Beach. A single boat carries up to 14 guests, attended by two professional gondoliers; guests are encouraged to bring their own food and drink and can curl up under cozy blankets as the gondoliers move the boat with quiet expertise.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Two Professional Gondoliers
THE CREW

Two Professional Gondoliers

Each Grand Venetian cruise is staffed by two professional gondoliers who handle navigation and ceremonials, letting your group focus on conversation and the passing waterfront scenery.

BYOB Comforts and a Center Table
THE ARRANGEMENT

BYOB Comforts and a Center Table

The boat comes with a removable center table, free corkage, ice buckets, cups, disposable plates and utensils, and cozy blankets — set up a spread, pour a glass, and settle in.

Private Celebrations and Pizza Cruise Options
THE OCCASION

Private Celebrations and Pizza Cruise Options

The Grand Venetian is sold as a private boat for groups and can be customized: pizza‑cruise upgrades are available on a schedule and seasonal add‑ons such as a Capitano Papa package are offered for special occasions.

What the day feels like

What the Cruise Feels Like

Board a classic gondola and leave the shoreline conversation behind as two gondoliers propel you along calm channels; the rhythm is slow and deliberate, suited to intimate groups and soft conversation.

The outing lasts roughly 50 minutes, a compact window long enough to unwind, share a meal or drinks, and take in the quiet perspective of Long Beach’s waterways.

Two Professional Gondoliers

THE CREW

Two Professional Gondoliers

Each Grand Venetian cruise is staffed by two professional gondoliers who handle navigation and ceremonials, letting your group focus on conversation and the passing waterfront scenery.

BYOB Comforts and a Center Table

THE ARRANGEMENT

BYOB Comforts and a Center Table

The boat comes with a removable center table, free corkage, ice buckets, cups, disposable plates and utensils, and cozy blankets — set up a spread, pour a glass, and settle in.

Private Celebrations and Pizza Cruise Options

THE OCCASION

Private Celebrations and Pizza Cruise Options

The Grand Venetian is sold as a private boat for groups and can be customized: pizza‑cruise upgrades are available on a schedule and seasonal add‑ons such as a Capitano Papa package are offered for special occasions.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.

1
Private Groups & CelebrationsIdeal for small parties, family gatherings, or private celebrations that need an intimate, bookable boat for up to 14 people.
2
Families with ChildrenAll ages are welcome, making this a good option for multigenerational outings where comfort and a leisurely pace matter.
3
Couples & RomanticsCouples can enjoy the quiet, low‑speed glide and personalized attention from gondoliers on a short, memorable cruise.
4
Food-and-Drink GroupsGroups that want to BYOB or stage a picnic at sea will find the service convenient — free corkage, ice buckets, cups and disposable serviceware are provided.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring any food and beverages you prefer; the operator provides free corkage, ice buckets and cups. Disposable plates, utensils and napkins are also supplied. A sweater or jacket is recommended in addition to the cozy blankets provided onboard.

Onboard Amenities

The boat includes a removable center table, cozy blankets, and serviceware to support a private meal or tasting during your cruise.

Pizza Cruise Scheduling

Pizza Cruise upgrades are offered Monday–Friday starting at 5pm and Saturday–Sunday starting at 12pm; additional per‑person charges apply to the upgrade.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Grand Venetian cruise?

The private gondola cruise runs for approximately 50 minutes.

How many people can join a single cruise?

The Grand Venetian is a private cruise for up to 14 people; all ages are welcome.

How do I make a reservation?

Reservations must be made by phone — call 562‑433‑9595 to book the Grand Venetian.

What is included with the booking?

Bookings include two professional gondoliers, a removable center table, free corkage, ice buckets and cups, disposable plates and utensils, and cozy blankets.

What are the rates and gratuity policy?

A private Grand Venetian cruise for up to 14 people is listed at $530; the rates include an 18% gratuity. Additional tipping to the gondoliers is discretionary; 15–20% is a common guideline.

Are there special packages or seasonal add‑ons?

Yes — seasonal offerings include a Capitano Papa add‑on package for Father's Day priced at $40; contact the operator by phone to add it to your booking.