Picture this: You're gliding across calm harbor waters, the sun warming your face, the mood, friends laughing as you pop open a bottle of champagne. No captain required. No boating experience needed. Just you and your crew, cruising at your own pace on a quiet, eco-friendly Duffy electric boat.
This is the magic of a Duffy rental, and it's one of the best ways to experience Orange County's beautiful harbors. Whether you're planning a romantic date night, celebrating a birthday, or simply want, and the freedom to go wherever you want.
What Exactly is a Duffy Boat?
Duffy boats are electric-powered boats designed specifically for harbor cruising. They've been a Southern California staple for over 50 years, and for good reason. They're comfortable, quiet, and incredibly easy to operate.
Think of a Duffy as a floating living room. You've got comfortable bench seating arranged around a center table, an overhead canopy for shade, and a simple steering wheel and throttle that anyone can master in minutes. There's no engine noise, no fumes, no stress. Just the gentle hum of the electric motor and the sound of water lapping against the hull.
Whisper Quiet
Electric motors mean you can actually have conversations, play music at a reasonable volume, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the harbor.
Eco-Friendly
Zero emissions, no gas fumes. Duffy boats are good for the environment and for your lungs.
No License Required
California doesn't require a boating license for electric boats in harbors. After a 5-minute orientation, you're ready to captain.
BYOB Friendly
Bring your own wine, beer, or champagne. Pack a picnic. It's your boat for the duration, enjoy it your way.
"We've done Duffy rentals for years. There's simply no better way to spend an evening. Wine, cheese, good friends, and the harbor lights coming on as the sun sets. Pure magic."
Choose Your Duffy Size
We offer several Duffy boat sizes to match your group:
Cozy 8-Passenger
Perfect for intimate gatherings, date nights, and small family outings. Comfortable and maneuverable.
Classic 12-Passenger
Our most popular size. Room for your whole crew with plenty of space for food, drinks, and celebration.
Party 16-Passenger
Maximum space for larger groups. Ideal for birthday parties, corporate outings, and big celebrations.
Where Can You Cruise?
Our Duffy rentals launch from Huntington Harbour, a gorgeous network of canals and waterways lined with beautiful waterfront homes. The harbor is protected from ocean swells, so the water is always calm and perfect for cruising.
Popular spots to explore include:
- The main harbor channels: Cruise past multi-million dollar homes and beautiful boats
- Humboldt Island: The scenic centerpiece of Huntington Harbour
- Sunset Beach: Watch the sunset over the water
- Waterfront restaurants: Tie up at dock-and-dine spots for dinner
- Christmas Cruise of Lights: During the holidays, homes are decked out in spectacular displays
The harbor is about 5 miles of cruisable waterway, which is plenty to explore during a 2-3 hour rental. Most guests find a peaceful spot to anchor, enjoy their food and drinks, then cruise around to see the sights.
What's Included in Your Rental?
Every Duffy Rental Includes
- The boat: Fully charged and ready to cruise
- Bluetooth speakers: Connect your phone and play your playlist
- Ice chest/cooler: Keep your drinks cold
- Overhead canopy: Protection from sun (and light rain)
- Side curtains: Available for cooler weather
- Safety equipment: Life jackets, throwable flotation, first aid
- Quick orientation: We'll show you everything in 5 minutes
What You Should Bring
Since BYOB is welcome, most guests pack a cooler with:
- Drinks: Wine, beer, champagne, seltzers, or soft drinks
- Food: Cheese boards, sandwiches, snacks, or full meals
- Cups and plates: We recommend reusable over disposable
- Napkins: For the inevitable cheese hands
- Blankets: Nice for chilly evenings
- Sunscreen: Even on overcast days
- Camera: You'll want photos!
How Hard is it to Drive?
Not hard at all. If you can drive a car, you can drive a Duffy, and honestly, it's easier than a car. The controls are incredibly simple:
- Steering wheel: Just like a car
- Throttle: Push forward to go, back to reverse
- Speed: Maximum is about 5 mph. The harbor speed limit
When you arrive, we give you a quick 5-minute orientation covering the controls, safety rules, and tips for navigating the harbor. Most people are cruising confidently within minutes. And since the boats are slow and the harbor is calm, there's virtually no risk of anything going wrong.
Best Times to Rent a Duffy
Duffy boats are great year-round, but here are the most popular times:
- Sunset cruises: Time your rental to catch golden hour on the water
- Holiday weekends: Perfect for Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day
- Christmas Cruise of Lights: December is magical with decorated homes
- Summer evenings: Long twilights and warm weather
- Fall afternoons: Smaller crowds, beautiful light
Perfect Occasions for a Duffy Rental
A Duffy boat makes any gathering more memorable:
- Date nights: Way more romantic than dinner at a crowded restaurant
- Birthday parties: Bring cake, decorations, and your birthday crew
- Bachelorette parties: Pop champagne on the water
- Family outings: Kids love driving the boat (with supervision!)
- Corporate team building: A unique venue for company bonding
- Girls' day out: Wine, gossip, and gorgeous views
- Just because: No occasion needed. You deserve a day on the water
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boating license?
No! California doesn't require a license for electric boats in protected harbors. We provide a brief orientation, and you're good to go.
Can I bring alcohol?
Yes! Beer, wine, champagne, and seltzers are all welcome. We just ask that you drink responsibly and that the driver stays sober.
What about kids?
Absolutely welcome! Kids love Duffy boats. We provide life jackets for all ages, and children can even help "steer" under supervision.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Well-behaved dogs are welcome on board. Just bring a towel in case they get wet paws.
What if it rains?
Our Duffys have overhead canopies and side curtains for light rain. For heavy weather, we'll work with you to reschedule.
How far in advance should I book?
Weekends and holidays book up quickly, reserve 1-2 weeks ahead. Weekdays are often available with shorter notice.
Ready to Cruise?
There's a reason Duffy boats have been a Southern California tradition for half a century. They're fun, they're easy, and they create moments you'll remember forever. Whether you're celebrating something special or just want a unique experience with people you love, a Duffy rental delivers.
The harbor is waiting. Let's get you on the water.
Book Your Duffy Boat Today
Reserve your Duffy and experience the best of Huntington Harbour.
Call (949) 993-7448 (949) 993-7448
