Fourth of July on the Bay

Why spend the Fourth on a Duffy?

Because a summer holiday is a good day to be on the water, and a Duffy puts your group on it without anyone owning a boat. Up to 12 people share one enclosed boat, with a roof for shade and windows that go up for the breeze. You drive, and nobody needs experience.

How early should you book?

As early as you can. Holidays are busy on the bay, and groups that need several boats at one start time need the most notice.

What should you plan for on the day?

• Parking. Parking is free and on site, but the landing gets busy on holidays. Carpool if you can, and leave extra time.
• Arrival. Arrive 30 minutes before your start time with your whole party, so the boat leaves on schedule.
• Sun. The roof keeps the sun off the cabin, but bring sunscreen and water anyway.
• Life vests. Children under 12 wear one for the whole trip; the front office provides them.

What can you bring?

Food, snacks and a cooler. Adults can bring their own beer and wine. Under California law the person driving must not be under the influence, so choose a driver who will skip the drinks. Ice is $7 a bag in the boat shop. For decorations, local vendors deliver décor for rentals; call (562) 598-2628 and we will point you to them.

How long should you go for?

Two hours, if you can. On a holiday you will want time to eat, cruise the Naples Canals if the tide allows, and take the long way back. One hour is enough for a lap of the bay if the rest of your day is full.

What about the fireworks?

Rentals run to the end time on your booking, and the booking calendar shows the start times that are open that day. If fireworks are part of your evening plans, call (562) 598-2628 before you book to ask about evening times on the Fourth.

What if you need more than one boat?

Book them together for the same start time, and pick a driver for each who is 21 or older. The group planner works out the count. For bigger groups, team outings covers running several boats at once.

What if it is too hot?

The enclosed cabin keeps the direct sun off, and with the windows up the breeze comes straight through. Bring more water than you think you need, and keep drinks in the cooler. A late-afternoon start, after the hottest part of the day, is easier on everyone; the sunset times help you plan one.

Can the dog come?

Yes, with its own life vest. Some dogs find holiday crowds and noise stressful, so think about whether yours will enjoy the day. Bringing your dog has tips.

What should a group pack for a holiday afternoon?

• Water, more than you think. Keep it in the cooler with the ice.
• Sunscreen and hats, even with the roof overhead; the glare off the water is strong.
• Food that travels: sandwiches, wraps, fruit and snacks that need no cooking.
• A bag for trash, so the boat goes back the way you found it.
• Layers for later, if your start time runs into the evening.

How do you keep the day easy?

Book early, carpool, arrive 30 minutes before your start time, and name your driver before anyone opens a cooler. Then the only decision left on the water is whether to go through the canals first or save them for last.

What if your group is mostly kids?

Then plan around them: a shorter trip, snacks within reach and shade from the roof. Every child under 12 wears a life vest, which the front office provides, and the adults take turns watching the open sides.

What does it cost?

Each boat is $125 for one hour or $250 for two, for up to 12 guests, and Peek shows the total before you pay. See pricing, the rules and packing list and the complete guide to renting a Duffy in Long Beach.

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