Date Night on a Duffy

Why is a Duffy good for a date?

Because it is just the two of you on your own boat, and it is quiet. The motor is electric, the top speed is 5 mph, and the cabin is enclosed, so you can talk the whole time without raising your voices.

It is also a small adventure. One of you drives, which is half the fun, and the bay is calm water inside the jetties, so the driving stays relaxed.

How long should a date cruise be?

One hour makes a good first date or a pre-dinner outing. Two hours is a date in itself: time for the canals, a slow lap of the bay, and a picnic on board.

What should you bring?

A picnic, or dinner. Food is welcome aboard, and so are your own beer and wine, a cooler and ice; ice is $7 a bag in the boat shop. If you would rather have something arranged, local vendors deliver food boards and flowers for rentals; call (562) 598-2628 for their details.

Bring a layer for the evening. In winter, bring a blanket: the cabin is enclosed, and the windows stay down to keep it warm.

When should you go?

Late afternoon into sunset is the classic choice. Use the sunset times by month to pick a start time. A daytime date works well too, especially in the cooler months, when the afternoon sun is welcome.

If the Naples Canals are part of the plan, check the tide forecast first: low bridges cross the canals, and high water can close them for a while.

Who drives?

Whichever of you is 21 or older and wants to; the person who books must be 21 or older too. No experience is needed. The Dock Master takes your boat to the end of the dock, then hands over the keys with a quick tutorial and a map of the sights.

Where should you go after?

The landing has restaurants and shops along the water, so dinner can be a short walk from the dock. Our guide to eating around Alamitos Bay lists places to try, and Belmont Shore is a short drive away.

Can you bring the dog?

Yes, if your date includes a dog. Dogs are welcome aboard with their own life vest. See bringing your dog before you go.

Planning something bigger?

If the date night is really a proposal, read proposing on the water for timing, flowers and how to keep it a surprise.

Is it worth it in winter?

Yes, and the evenings start earlier. In December the sun sets before 5 pm, so an early-evening date is already after dark, and the Naples holiday lights are up. The enclosed cabin makes it comfortable with a blanket or two.

What does a Duffy date look like, start to finish?

1. Arrive 30 minutes early. Park free at the landing and check in at the office. Grab the free popcorn.
2. Take the keys. The Dock Master takes your boat to the end of the dock, then hands it over with a quick tutorial and a map.
3. Head for the canals, if the tide allows, and wind through slowly.
4. Set out the picnic on the table while one of you keeps the boat moving.
5. Watch the light go on the open bay as the sun drops.
6. Bring the boat back by your end time, and walk to dinner.

Two hours lets every step breathe; one hour means choosing between the canals and the picnic.

What if it is your first time driving a boat?

Then it makes a better story. The Dock Master shows the driver the controls before you leave the dock, the bay is calm, and the boat is forgiving at 5 mph. Take the first few minutes slowly, and you will be relaxed long before you reach the canals.

What does a date cruise cost?

$125 for one hour, $250 for two. The price is for the boat. More on the pricing page and in the complete guide to renting a Duffy in Long Beach.

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