Duffy Boats

I can't say it's been a tradition but we have done it three times now for the 4th of July.  What is it? Well, we rented a Duffy Electric boat and cruised the harbor and then watched fireworks on the 4th of July. 

We've done this twice at Newport Harbor (Balboa Island) and once in San Diego (Mission Bay).  I have to say it's ALOT of fun and the kids have a great time.  Basically, bring all your goodies you want to eat/consume and music.  The boats have a great stereo system and you can bring CD's..but just tune into a jamming station and you can do without them..and one less thing to bring.  They also offer an MP3 out if you bring your iPod.

The Duffy Boat can seat 10-12 people comfortably..I assume the less people you take the MORE comfortable it's going to be.  You don't need a licence to drive it and the top speed is 5-10 miles (depending on current), neeless to say I had my 7 year old son driving it around the harbor while I was grubbing down. 

You need to reserve EARLY if you want it for the 4th of July, as expected, but the people at Duffy Rental (Newport Beach) are extremely friendly and helpful and square you away when you arrive.  When we went they had hotdogs and popcorn while we waited which was pretty cool.  Okay, how much? right?  Well, I have to say it's not that cheap..for a 4 hour rental it was $499, but if you bring another family and split it then it's not that bad.  Trust me, it's ALOT MORE FUN than watching fireworks in the sky.  Start putting some savings aside for next year, you will not regret it.