Celebrating the Fourth of July in Newport Beach

The Fourth of July is a special day all around the country, but it is particularly special in Orange County. In fact, hundreds of people gather in Newport Beach every year in order to participate in the annual barbecues at the beach and while enjoying boat rides in the Pacific Ocean. One of the greatest Fourth of July attractions in the area is the Old Glory Boat Parade that takes place in Newport Bay.

Boasting more than 20 miles of gorgeous waterfront estates and multi-million yachts, Newport Bay is a popular place for recreation throughout the year. As part of the Old Glory Boat Parade, however, visitors get to enjoy seeing hundreds of yachts, cruise ships and sailing ships navigating the harbor as part of a festive holiday experience. From watching the boats and the thousands of people gathered on the beach to viewing the fireworks display from the water, boat cruises and tours offer an excellent way to celebrate the Fourth of July in Orange County. Here is a look at just a couple of the options you might want to explore if you wish to get on the water this July 4th.

Newport Beach 4th of July Cruises

Hornblower Cruises & Events will be hosting Newport Beach 4th of July Cruises on the Fourth of July. To celebrate this fun holiday as you cruise along the scenic Newport Beach Harbor, you can choose between the two-hour Old Glory Boat Parade Brunch Cruise or the three-hour 4th of July Fireworks Dining Cruise. Either way, you will enjoy a tasty buffy, festive music and top-notch service from the Hornblower crew. The three-hour cruise offers the added bonus of taking you beneath the fireworks so you can enjoy a spectacular show from a truly unique vantage point.

Hornblower Cruises & Events is located at 2431 W. Pacific Coast Highway, with cruises departing from Hornblower South in Newport Beach. The Brunch Cruise is from 1:00 to 3:00 pm while the Dinner Cruise is from 7:00 until 10:00 pm. Both cruises begin boarding half an hour before their departure time. An additional cruise aboard the Wild Goose will take place from 7:30 to 10:30 pm with boarding taking place at 7:00. Prices range from $68.95 to $104.95 per person.

4th of July Yacht Party

If the Hornblower cruise doesn’t seem to be quite your style, you might want to take a three-hour 4th of July Night Cruise with the Ambassador Yacht. With the Ambassador Yacht 4th of July Night Cruise, you will sail the Newport Harbor while enjoying the many amenities of the yacht. Not only is a full bar available, but the price of the cruise includes four cocktails, unlimited gourmet finger food, a DJ and dancing. The top deck of the yacht offers 360 degree views of the harbor, providing the perfect vantage point for watching the fireworks.

The Ambassador Yacht, which is an oversized 3-level luxury yacht, is located at 2901 West Coast Highway at Newport Beach. The cruise takes place from 7:00 until 10:00 pm. All guests are asked to arrive 30 minutes ahead of time for check in. Tickets are $74 per guest. To learn more about the cruise or to purchase tickets, visit the annual yacht parties website.