Gondola Company of Newport

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Time and time again, I read articles and online editorials about the value in trying new things in life. Whether it’s learning a new skill, trying out a new hobby, making a new friend, visiting a new place, etc. - these new opportunities allow us to learn more about the complexities and fascinations of the world, and more about ourselves, in the process. Something I love most about Los Angeles is that there is always an opportunity to learn, discover, or experience something NEW here. I’m pretty sure it would take hundreds of years to experience all of the adventures that Los Angeles has to offer. As a full-time working adult, this, of course, makes me thankful for my weekends. Weekends are the time I have to decompress from the work week, explore and photograph our vast and adventure-filled city, let my creative and innovative soul flow freely, and spend quality time with my dear loved ones – all while cultivating new experiences. To this end, something new that I tried last weekend was a fun double date outing to beautiful Newport, a coastal city about 45 minutes south of Los Angeles.
 
As much as I’m a fan of trying new things, I’m also a big fan of getting the most bang for my buck. :) I find myself frequently browsing discount sites/apps – like Groupon, Living Social, Amazon Local and Gold Star - to see if there is anything that especially sparks my interest and something that my readers and social media followers may also be interested in. I recently stumbled upon a Groupon deal for the Gondola Company of Newport that shared, “We will row you across the beautiful bay, through the canals and beneath the picturesque skyline; a taste of Italy in Newport Beach, California...” Ahhhh *insert peaceful sigh*. I was sold! 

I had no idea that Newport Beach was home to canals similar to those in Venice Beach and thought an hour gondola ride through the canals would make for a fun weekend adventure outing with friends. My hunch about this was right, and this double date turned out to be such a blast. Read more below for some of the highlights of the adventure and tips/things you should know before you go. Bon voyage!

Highlights

• The overall experience was both relaxing and fun. Gliding peacefully along the Newport canals in our comfortable and spacious gondola, enjoying a glass of crisp white wine and snacking on chips, and catching up with some friends made for a great Saturday evening outing.
• You can bring your own food and beverages aboard, including alcohol. Your gondolier will have plastic cups and a wine opener ready for you, if you request this when you check-in. 
• The gondola can carry up to six people. It’s your choice whether you’d like to plan a romantic date night or a small celebration with a few of your close friends. 
• We appreciated the Gondola Company of Newport’s attention to detail, making this experience more authentic rather than cheesy. From the make and design of the gondola, to the traditional uniform of our gondolier, to the Italian music playing quietly on board, you’ll feel as if you were whisked off to Italy for the evening!
• We went around golden hour so it was beautiful out. We liked pointing out the fancy houses lining the canals, saying hello to the other gondolas passing us by, and watching the sun slowly setting along the horizon. This was such a unique Los Angeles experience! 

​Tips & Things to Know Before You Go

• Make your reservations well in advance because apparently the company books up fast. They don’t take reservations over the internet, but you can call them at (949)675-1212 or email them directly at gondolanb@aol.com.
• There was no confirmation or reminder from the company of your reservation, so make sure you calendar this!
• Gondola ride prices do not include gratuity. I wasn’t sure what was appropriate to tip in this situation, so I call ahead of time and asked the receptionist. He recommended bringing $20 total for a tip. 
• Bring a warm sweater! It can get chilly on the water, especially once the sun begins to set.
• There is metered parking along the streets close to the check-in office. We only had to pay about 30 minutes for a meter because they stop charging at 6:00pm on Saturdays.
• Do you love getting a discount as much as I do? Get discounted tickets on Groupon by clicking HERE.  It’s $65 for a group of 4; or $16.25 per person. 

Have fun if you decide to go on this adventure, and feel free to let me know if you have any questions! Gondola Company of Newport is located at 3431 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Call 949-675- 1212 with any questions or visit their website by clicking here.