Two Harbors sits across a narrow isthmus on Santa Catalina Island, a pocket of coastal quiet reachable by a steady, scenic cruise from Marina del Rey. For travelers seeking a private, elevated entry to island life, a luxury charter turns the crossing into the centerpiece: sea air, panoramic decks, and the rare perspective of Catalina's cliffs and coves.
The stretch between Marina del Rey and Catalina is routinely traversed by elegant motor yachts and modern catamarans. Onboard, the rhythm is deliberate—coffee at dawn on the bow, sunlit lunches in open-plan salons, and the option to anchor at Two Harbors’ sheltered coves for snorkeling, coastal hiking, or an alfresco dinner ashore. These charters emphasize space, service, and flexible itineraries tailored to private groups.
This guide highlights vessels and operators with designs and amenities suited to intimate island itineraries: half-day and full-day sails, three-quarter day options, and vessels configured for overnight comfort. Whether you want a fast crossing and a day of exploration or a slow coastal cruise with sunset cocktails, these selections represent the best routes to turn Two Harbors into a luxury outdoor adventure.
The six experiences at a glance
| Experience | Format | Duration | Strongest fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 105' Broward YachtPanoramic decks; Catalina-capable | Half-day / Private yacht charter | 4 hours (1/2 Day) | Groups wanting a luxurious, spacious yacht with option for an overnight |
| 46' Bali CatamaranOpen-plan living; full-day comfort | Full-day / Catamaran charter | 8 hours (Full Day) | Sun seekers who value indoor-outdoor flow and extended cruising time |
| 46' Bali Catamaran (dup)Same yacht class and layout as full-day option | Full-day / Catamaran charter | 8 hours (Full Day) | Flexible groups seeking identical Bali 4.6 comforts |
| 74′ AdmiralElegant decks for sunset cruises | Variable (3–10 hours) / Private yacht | 3–10 hours | Sunset dinners and short coastal escapes near Santa Monica Bay |
| 46' Bali Catamaran (3/4 day)Sleek design; 6-hour coastal option | 3/4-day / Catamaran charter | 6 hours | Half- to three-quarter-day sailors wanting space and performance |
| 42' Bali Catamaran2024 model; dolphin-friendly cruises | 3/4-day / Catamaran charter | 6 hours | Those seeking stability, modern design, and wildlife prospects |
01 · Best for groups seeking space
105' Broward Yacht — Victoria: expansive decks and refined interiors
Victoria is presented as an entertainer’s yacht: expansive decks, a sundeck bar, and roomy flybridge lounging that make the vessel ideal for social days on the water. The 105-foot Broward comfortably accommodates up to twelve guests and is described as suitable for half-day sails, day trips to Catalina, or even overnight stays. For groups that prioritize outdoor living space and panoramic ocean views, Victoria’s layout emphasizes communal sun decks and large outdoor lounges shaded with umbrellas when needed.
Inside, the yacht’s interiors are described as luxurious and tastefully furnished, with three suites that allow for overnight comfort for up to six guests. The operator highlights a full complement of water toys including kayaks and offers to tailor itineraries to guest preferences. For travelers aiming to make the crossing to Two Harbors an indulgent centerpiece rather than just transit, this yacht packages privacy, scale, and the amenities of a floating villa.
View the full experience details02 · Best for full-day comfort
46' Bali Catamaran — Bali 4.6: open space, seamless indoor-outdoor living
The Bali 4.6 stands out for its trademark open-space design: a tilting garage door that unites saloon and cockpit, a full galley with a full-sized fridge, and a solid forward cockpit for sunbathing. For a full-day charter this layout is particularly valuable—guests move freely between shade and sun, preparing meals in a well-equipped galley and settling in on spacious lounges while the boat hums along the coast. The description emphasizes elegance in new interior materials and an overall sense of volume rare in vessels of this size.
Operator notes highlight concierge-level service from experienced captains and crew, and catering options available on request. That combination of thoughtful layout and onboard service makes the Bali 4.6 well suited to longer cruises toward Catalina where passengers expect both comfort underway and convivial spaces for dining and socializing once anchored at Two Harbors.
View the full experience details03 · Best duplicate option
46' Bali Catamaran — Alternate listing of the Bali 4.6
This entry represents an equivalent Bali 4.6 offering; the vessel’s core attributes—open-space saloon, full galley, and forward cockpit—remain the same. The duplicate listing indicates operator flexibility and availability across booking channels, giving groups options for scheduling and catering preferences without sacrificing the Bali’s signature indoor-outdoor flow.
For travelers focused on maximizing daylight aboard and who value a bright, airy vessel for a long day of cruising or a Catalina crossing, selecting the Bali 4.6 from either listing will prioritize communal space and comfortable movement between shade and sun while anchored or underway.
View the full experience details04 · Best for sunset or coastal hops
74′ Admiral — Versatile coastal yacht for short cruises and evenings
The 74′ Admiral is framed as a flexible charter: roomy decks for sunset dinners, smooth navigation for harbor cruises, and enough comfort for weekend coastal escapes. The operator notes emphasize versatility—use it for a brief harbor outing or extend the day to sample beaches and bays along the LA coast. Included basics such as complimentary soft drinks and attentive captains make it an easy choice for groups seeking a polished, shorter itinerary.
Notable operator guidance includes practical restrictions—requests to avoid high heels, confetti, and certain foods—indicating a maintained vessel and a focus on shared comfort. For travelers who want a shorter sail with high service standards and stellar sunset vantage points en route to or near Catalina, the 74′ Admiral presents a reliable option.
View the full experience details05 · Best 3/4-day balance
46' Bali Catamaran — 3/4 Day: a six-hour island sampler
This three-quarter-day Bali 4.6 balances transit time and on-water enjoyment: a six-hour window that can include a coastal cruise and time anchored at Two Harbors. The vessel’s open-plan layout and fully equipped galley support comfortable lunches and light provisioning, while the forward cockpit is ideal for sunbathing between stops. Concierge and catering options are available, allowing groups to create a compact but refined island visit.
For travelers who want to arrive at Two Harbors, explore the cove, and return the same day without committing to a full-day schedule, this option compresses the essentials of a Catalina escape into a single, well-appointed charter.
View the full experience details06 · Best for modern design and wildlife
42' Bali Catamaran — 2024 model for open-water cruising
This 2024 Bali catamaran emphasizes modern design, stability, and an expansive salon with panoramic windows. The vessel’s open-plan layout and oversized aft door create a single, fluid entertaining area—an asset on longer coastal legs or when spending time anchored at Catalina. The operator highlights likely wildlife encounters, describing itineraries where dolphins are often seen and where captains will linger for memorable marine moments.
As a turn-key, well-maintained 42-foot Bali, this charter suits couples or small groups prioritizing contemporary finishes, comfortable staterooms, and the added thrill of marine wildlife viewing en route to Two Harbors. The operator also positions the boat for tailored experiences, from sunset cocktails to relaxed day sails.
View the full experience detailsHow to choose
Match the trip to the story you want from the destination
Decide whether the voyage is the destination: pick a vessel that matches group size, desired time offshore, and whether you plan to sleep aboard or return the same day.
Before you go
Four practical planning checks
Ask the operator whether your charter plan includes a Catalina crossing to Two Harbors and how much on-anchor time is included for shore visits.
Verify maximum guest numbers and whether overnight cabins are available if you plan to sleep aboard at Two Harbors.
Confirm whether catering or a galley service is available, plus any drink options; many Bali catamarans offer concierge upgrades.
Bring layered clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, closed shoes for walking on uneven paths, and any snorkeling gear if not provided.
Frequently asked questions
Planning a luxury experience
How long does it take to sail from Marina del Rey to Two Harbors?+
Transit times vary by vessel and sea state; full-day charters and three-quarter-day sails are common to allow time ashore. Confirm timing with your operator.
Can these charters anchor at Two Harbors?+
Yes—many operators list Catalina itineraries and can anchor in sheltered coves near Two Harbors for shore access and swimming.
Are meals and crew included?+
Inclusion varies: some listings include soft drinks and crew while catering and full provisioning are typically offered as add-ons—check the operator listing.
How this guide was prepared
This guide aggregates operator-provided descriptions and availability details for private yacht and catamaran charters that operate from Marina del Rey and serve Catalina Island. Selections were chosen for vessel design, guest capacity, and suitability for Two Harbors itineraries. Readers should confirm specifics directly with operators using the links provided.
A private charter redefines the trip to Two Harbors—transforming a routine crossing into a curated coastal journey. Whether your priority is expansive decks, modern catamaran living, or a refined sunset cruise, these vessels provide distinct ways to experience Catalina’s sheltered coves and open sea.
Use operator listings to confirm exact routes, provisioning, and guest requirements, and plan to arrive with time to savor both the sailing and the quiet of Two Harbors once you drop anchor.