What Is The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade?
The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday traditions in Southern California, dating back over 100 years! Each December, boaters from across the region gather in Newport Harbor to participate in this five-night parade, transforming their vessels into floating works of art. With stunning light displays, creative themes, and festive music, the parade is a feast for the senses and a beloved holiday spectacle for locals and tourists alike.
This year, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is set to take place from December 17 to December 21, with nightly parades from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.. The event culminates in a fireworks display on the last night, lighting up the harbor in a finale that’s as grand as the parade itself.
When Is This Spectacular Light Show?
The 2025 Boat Parade dates are Wednesday December 17th – Sunday December 21st. The opening night, Wednesday December 17th, and closing night, Sunday December 21st, ceremonies will include fireworks and other festivities.
If you can’t make the parade, you can still see most of the decorated parade ships and all the estates and landscapes from November 29th – December 31st nightly.
What’s Included
Every year, OC Boat Rentals provides free hot cocoa, coffee, sweet treats, and holiday cheer for every customer going out to enjoy the Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Our pontoon boats have fire tables to keep your group warm and most of our Duffy Electric boat rentals have full enclosed windows.
Why You Should Experience It with OC Boat Rentals
Imagine viewing the parade not from the shore but from the comfort of your own private boat! OC Boat Rentals offers a unique opportunity to experience the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade up close, giving you a front-row seat to one of Southern California’s most cherished holiday events.
Here’s why OC Boat Rentals is the best way to see the parade:
-
Prime Viewing Locations
By renting a boat, you’ll have the freedom to navigate through the harbor and enjoy multiple views of the decorated boats, dazzling lights, and holiday displays. OC Boat Rentals provides maps and suggested routes so you can easily find the best vantage points along the parade route. -
Customized Holiday Experiences
OC Boat Rentals’ boats are perfect for creating a private holiday celebration with friends, family, or even a romantic date. Decked out with comfortable seating, easy-to-operate controls, Christmas lights, and Bluetooth-compatible sound systems, you can set your own playlist to get into the festive spirit as you cruise through Newport Harbor. -
Flexible Boat Options
Whether you’re planning a quiet evening for two or a lively gathering, OC Boat Rentals offers a range of boat rental options to accommodate groups of all sizes. Our fleet includes boats that comfortably hold up to 12 people, making it easy to bring everyone along to enjoy the holiday cheer. -
Avoid the Crowds
By renting a boat with OC Boat Rentals, you can skip the crowded viewing areas and packed sidewalks along the harbor. Enjoy an intimate and peaceful experience, floating right alongside the parade in your own space without the hustle and bustle. -
No Boating License Required
OC Boat Rentals provides easy-to-operate electric boats rental, perfect for anyone who wants to join the parade without needing a boating license. Our team will show you everything you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable experience. -
Sit Back, Relax, and Enjoy the Ride
Prefer to let someone else take the helm? OC Boat Rentals can pair you with one of our fun and experienced captains who know all the best routes and photo-worthy spots, including how to score the perfect front-row view!For our electric Duffy boats, you can add a captain for $50 per hour (available for groups of up to 11 guests). For parties up to 12, our Avalon Pontoon and Double Decker Pontoon rentals already include a captain for a seamless, stress-free cruise.
Tips for an Unforgettable Boat Parade Experience
To make the most of your time on the water, here are a few tips for enjoying the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade with OC Boat Rentals:
- Dress Warmly: Even in Southern California, it can get chilly on the water in December. Bring blankets, cozy sweaters, gloves and hats to stay warm and comfortable during your cruise.
- Arrive Early: The harbor gets busy on parade nights, so plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes early. This will give you time to find parking, check in, go over the boat’s features with our team, and find the best spots for viewing before the parade starts.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Make it a true holiday outing by bringing along your favorite holiday snacks and drinks. Many of our boats have space for a small cooler, so you can enjoy treats as you take in the sights.
- Bring a Camera: Capture the magic of the parade by taking photos and videos. The beautifully lit boats against the dark water make for stunning holiday photos!
- Respect the Parade Rules: While it’s tempting to get close to the decorated boats, be sure to maintain a safe distance. Harbor Patrol will be out to ensure the parade route remains clear, so follow their instructions for a safe and enjoyable evening.
Book Early with OC Boat Rentals
As one of the most popular holiday events in the region, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade attracts thousands of visitors each year. This means boats fill up fast! To ensure you get the best boat for your group, book with OC Boat Rentals as early as possible. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to help you plan every detail, from choosing the right boat to finding the perfect parade-viewing spots.
Experience the Holiday Magic on the Water
This holiday season, make the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade a family tradition, a romantic date, or a special night with friends by viewing it from your own boat with OC Boat Rentals. Imagine floating under the holiday lights, feeling the cool December breeze, and watching as Newport Harbor comes alive with festive decorations and holiday cheer.
Reserve your boat today with OC Boat Rentals and experience the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade like never before. Celebrate the season in style, make memories that will last a lifetime, and enjoy the holiday magic on the water!
🎁Win One of Two Grand Prizes this December!!
Celebrate the season on the water with our Holiday Add-Ons and December Raffle!
Every raffle ticket gives you a chance to win a Free 2-Hour Duffy Cruise or a Free 2-Hour Double Decker Pontoon Boat Rental, plus the excitement of instant-winner LED prizes!
Get festive and cruise in style with these limited-edition holiday add-ons:
🎟️Raffle Tickets – Enter to win one of our two grand prizes and uncover instant-win tickets.
💡LED Accessories – Multicolored glowing rings, bracelets, necklaces, and pins that shine all night.
🎅Luxury Santa Hats – Soft velvet plush, cozy fit, and perfectly photo-ready.
Buy for the whole crew and save:
$4 each · 3 for $10 · 10 for $20 (mix and match any items)
🎄BONUS GIFT: Spend $20 or more on holiday merchandise and get one FREE raffle ticket automatically entered into the Grand Prize Drawing.
For more details on our boats, availability, and parade tips, visit our website or give us a call. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable holiday experience
