Rolling Hills Estates sits on the bluffed ridge above the South Bay, an easy drive to the marinas of Marina del Rey and Long Beach where a cluster of luxury charters stage private escapes to open water and Catalina Island.
For travelers based in Rolling Hills Estates, a private charter transforms a routine weekend into a distinct coastal experience: panoramic ocean perspectives, private coves reachable only by boat, and the relaxed privacy of an on-deck lounge. Operators in Marina del Rey and Long Beach offer a range of vessels — from a stately 105-foot Broward yacht to modern Bali catamarans — calibrated for groups, celebrations, or quiet island getaways.
This guide profiles the best matches for different group sizes and intentions: whether you want a half-day cocktail cruise, a full-day trip to Avalon, or a stable catamaran for family cruising. Each entry highlights what the vessel does best, practical details, and the booking link to reserve your preferred charter directly with the operator.
The six experiences at a glance
| Experience | Format | Duration | Strongest fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 105' Broward YachtPanoramic decks, overnight capability | Private motor yacht charter | Half day (4 hours) — overnight option | Celebrations and groups who want an entertainer-ready yacht with indoor/outdoor luxury |
| 46' Bali CatamaranOpen-plan catamaran living | Private catamaran charter | 3–4 hour or 6-hour charters | Guests seeking spacious indoor-outdoor living and a stable platform for social cruising |
| 42' Bali Catamaran (2024)Modern 42' Bali with panoramic salon | Private catamaran charter | 6 hours | Dolphin watching, sunset sails, and comfortable family day trips |
| Catalina 48' YachtDirect Catalina access and secluded coves | Private yacht charter | 6–12 hours | Full-day adventures to Avalon and clear-water coves unreachable by land |
| 46' Bali Half DayHalf-day Bali catamaran | Private catamaran charter | Half day | Short luxury sails without committing to a full-day charter |
| 46' Bali Half Day (alt)Alternate listing of a 46' Bali | Private catamaran charter | Half day | Flexible half-day options for smaller groups or sunset plans |
01 · Best for grand occasions
105' Broward Yacht — roomy, refined, and built for hosting
The Victoria is a statement vessel for groups departing Marina del Rey. At 105 feet she balances open-air deck life with richly appointed interior spaces — mahogany finishes, plush lounges, and multiple staterooms when overnighting. For Rolling Hills Estates travelers who want a single-reservation solution for celebrations, corporate outings, or milestone gatherings, Victoria’s capacity for up to 12 guests and ability to host overnight make it a particularly flexible choice.
Outdoors, the yacht’s sundeck and flybridge provide exceptionally broad views of the coastline; indoors, the salon and cabins read like private hotel suites. Operators offer water toys and can tailor an itinerary that ranges from a leisurely coastal cruise to a daytrip toward Catalina. The vessel’s scale and crewed service make it ideal for groups that prioritize privacy, comfort, and an elevated on-water entertaining experience.
View the full experience details02 · Best for seamless indoor–outdoor living
46' Bali Catamaran — efficient layout and social forward design
The Bali 4.6 is designed around a single, open living area where saloon and cockpit become one. That layout makes it particularly attractive for groups who value sociability: conversation flows from indoor seating to the aft cockpit, while the forward cockpit offers a quieter sunning area. A full galley, ample refrigerator capacity, and modern fit-out mean you can reliably cater onboard or add professional catering services for special occasions.
For a drive from Rolling Hills Estates to Marina del Rey, this catamaran gives you a stable platform for relaxed cruising, close coastline passes, and opportunities to anchor for a swim. Captains and crews often provide concierge-style service, so if you want a catered picnic at anchor or a curated route toward scenic coves, the Bali crews can help arrange the finer details.
View the full experience details03 · Best for family cruising
42' Bali Catamaran (2024) — modern, stable, and view-forward
The 42-foot Bali is a compact expression of Bali’s open-concept philosophy: expansive windows, a large aft opening door, and multiple lounge zones make it a comfortable day-cruise platform. On a typical 6-hour charter from Marina del Rey, itineraries can include coastline cruising toward Malibu or extended time anchored off quieter stretches for swimming and snorkeling — operators note frequent marine mammal sightings on these routes.
Small groups and multigenerational families will appreciate the stability of a catamaran and the indoor comforts that keep everyone relaxed for longer charters. Though not as grand as a superyacht, this 2024 model gives a modern aesthetic and turnkey condition that suits guests who want a refined yet purposeful sailing experience.
View the full experience details04 · Best for Catalina day trips
Catalina Adventure — private 48' yacht to coves and Avalon
Catalina Island is the most immediate island escape from the South Bay and the 48' yacht is a straightforward way to reach its swimming coves and Avalon’s shoreline. Operators emphasize that many favorite coves are inaccessible by land and offer visibility often exceeding 50 feet — a rarity on Southern California day trips. The yacht’s range and amenities let groups tailor the day: beach club inflatables, paddle boards, and relaxed anchoring time are common add-ons.
Because the charter typically spans half to full day, it’s best for groups prepared to spend a solid portion of the day on the water. Guests who want a Mediterranean-feel coastline without international travel will find the clear water, sheltered coves, and small-town Avalon atmosphere an unexpectedly transportive experience less than two hours from Rolling Hills Estates.
View the full experience details05 · Best short sail
46' Bali Catamaran — half-day option for a breezy escape
When time is limited, a half-day Bali charter from Marina del Rey offers a concentrated taste of private sailing: an afternoon coastal run, a quick anchorage for a swim, or a sunset cruise without committing the full day. The layout still prioritizes social spaces, so even shorter outings feel luxurious and effortless.
These shorter options work well for guests based in Rolling Hills Estates who want to minimize transit time and maximize on-deck hours. Captains typically adapt the route to winds and conditions, guaranteeing a memorable few hours whether you seek sunbathing, coastal views, or a gentle evening sail.
View the full experience details06 · Best alternate half-day
46' Bali Catamaran — alternate listing for flexible scheduling
This alternate half-day listing represents the same Bali platform and is useful when primary slots are sold out or when you need a different departure time. The experience remains the same: a social forward layout, stable sailing characteristics, and the option to anchor for a swim or snorkel during the shorter window.
If your group values schedule flexibility — for example, returning to Rolling Hills Estates the same evening — an alternate half-day charter can provide the balance between convenience and a private luxury outing without booking a full-day charter.
View the full experience detailsHow to choose
Match the trip to the story you want from the destination
Decide whether your priority is space, range, or time on the water. Use these short prompts to find the best match for a trip departing from the South Bay marinas.
Before you go
Four practical planning checks
Operators will provide exact dock and boarding instructions after booking; arrive at least 15 minutes early for a smooth check-in.
Even on overcast days, sun reflects off the water—bring sunscreen, a hat, layered clothing, and a light windbreaker for exposed decks.
If anyone in your group is prone to motion sickness, bring remedies; catamarans are more stable and often better for sensitive riders.
Check what is included — fuel, water toys, catering options, and gratuity policies — so there are no surprises on boarding.
Frequently asked questions
Planning a luxury experience
How long does it take from Rolling Hills Estates to Marina del Rey?+
Driving time is typically 20–35 minutes depending on traffic; allow extra time for marina parking and boarding procedures.
Are these charters crewed and licensed?+
All listed vessels operate with professional captains and crew. Confirm specifics and certifications with the operator at booking.
Can we bring food and beverages onboard?+
Most operators allow food and nonalcoholic beverages; many offer catering or allow outside catering—verify each charter’s policy before you board.
How this guide was prepared
We reviewed operator-supplied listings and structured descriptions to highlight vessel types, typical itineraries, and suitability for guests departing near Rolling Hills Estates. Selection criteria emphasized vessel condition, guest capacity, route options to Catalina and coastal highlights, and clarity of operator information.
A private charter from the South Bay marinas transforms a short drive from Rolling Hills Estates into a private coastal playground. Whether you prioritize space, range, or a quick sunset sail, the options profiled here represent dependable ways to elevate a day on the water.
Book directly through the operator links to confirm availability and any bespoke requests such as catering, water toys, or special itineraries — and enjoy the luxury of having the Pacific to yourself.