First experience on the Tiki boat for a large group gathering. Severely disappointed for the following reasons: 1. Each person paid a hefty price for a dinner cruise that never left the dock. 2. The boat is so old it can't even handle being in unstill water. 3. Main floor is extremely hot with no air, cross breeze or circulation. 4. Main floor is very old and dingy looking. I rated it a "3" because an attempt to make things right, by not leaving the dock, they allegedly upgraded us from the bottom shelf alcohol to top shelf. Plus the food was actually pretty good and so was the DJ. I am unconvinced that this boat should even be in business still after our experience. read more

We recently celebrated our kid's 15th birthday party on the Tikiboat. We booked it for 3pm on a Sunday for 50 guests, and had about 45 guests show up. The pros: * Great music, DJ kept the party lively and played requests. *The food (we opted for the Mexican food option) was actually tasty. It included nacho chips, quesadillas, flautitas, and chicken hard shell tacos. Toppings: guac, crema, salsa. Paper plates, napkins, and disposable utensils were all included. Obviously, right? * The staff was chill and helpful The meh: Since this is an honest review, I must include the following. * The boat is dated. It's more like the Krusty Krab than a fancy yacht. * The boat is dingy and not as clean. It could use a good vacuuming, deep cleaning of the rugs and all surfaces. Some fresh paint could help. New tables and chairs too. It definitely needs TLC! * Not sure what happened but 30 kids and 15 adults went through the food quickly. A few of us had very little to eat and by the time we went for more, the food was gone. No left overs. In summary, we had a great experience just wish the boat had a nicer look inside and more cleanliness. If your looking to host an informal even and just want to have a great time, this is the right boat for you. I wouldn't recommend it for an upscale, black tie event. Ps I think 65 people max is a good upper limit if you want to still be able to dance. We had a GREAT time! read more

Tikiboat - Upper deck - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

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The Tikiboat was super fun. The drinks were awesome and the DJ was amazeballs!!! I danced the night away!!!!! read more

Tikiboat - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

Rented Tikiboat for my daughters 17th Birthday. We had a few early issues- reservation done online, got confirmation page(lucky I printed it) but no confirm by email. Day before we were notified that boat engine was out! Too late for us to change venues. Hank took care of us, we got a discount, and a way to still get a ride for the whole party around the harbor. The night was a success, all the crew was very accommodating, helpful and understanding of the situation. DJ Sly was great and worked with us also. Don't expect a first class boat- but a first class crew and fun experience is in store. Totally memorable experience for all. read more

Tikiboat - Tikiboat at night - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

The tikiboat is our go-to, sure-to-have a great time party boat! We've hosted a couple of events on the boat and everyone has had an amazing time. It leaves the pretentiousness on land with a welcoming staff; great bartender, DJ, crew and Captain. Both times we opted on the hosted bar and the Mexican food buffet. The bartender always had a drink ready, remembering practically each of the fifty guests' drinks, which was pretty impressive. The DJ read the crowd perfectly and had everyone dancing. The Mexican food was awesome, as commented by so many guests!! The simple things that many places get wrong, the tikiboat gets right; hospitality, good food, and music! read more

Tikiboat - Main Deck - right before the party started! - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

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Last night we had the best Boat party for my husband! We had such a blast! We rented the Showboat for 4 hours and it was definitely worth it! Everyone was very helpful and accommodating. Thank you very much henk and Melissa for helping me plan my husband's boat party! And thank you to our captain for a smooth boat ride! Highly recommended! read more

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so much fun! we had 80 people and there still felt like there was a ton of room! food and open bar was great and dj was amazing! everyone had a blast read more

Where to begin, I rented the tiki boat for my wife surprise birthday party August 13th it was Fantastic from the start! The crew the captain the young lady at the office the bartender the DJ everyone was very professional and Great! Food was perfect bar was top shelf upgrade DJ perfect mix on music (kelly). Our only issue was parking I had people looking for 90 minutes then give up. ( not a Tiki boat issue) I will most definitely recommend this cruise and we will do it again! THANKS FOR FANTASTIC MEMORIES!! read more

This was the venue for my high school reunion. Finding a parking space in the area was a nightmare. We nearly missed the boat. The boat itself is kind of divey and really enclosed. You definitely will not feel the wind in your hair or need a jacket to keep warm. Because the bottom level felt so stuffy, my friends and I hung out on the top level, but turns out the cool kids stayed on the bottom level. I guess that made us the misfits. Some things never change! A Mexican buffet dinner was served which was not bad. The staff and bartenders were all very nice. There was a DJ on the bottom level, but no place to dance, and the music did not carry up to the second level very well. And they passed out fake money to play the gambling tables also on the bottom level, but as I said, not the cool kids. Like Gilligan, it was a 3 hour tour only we did not crash onto a sweet little island. 3 hours was too long. I was ready to disembark at the 2 hour mark, but I do not know how to swim. I probably would not book a tour on my own. Guess I am just a landlubber. read more

My grandmother threw us a party for our one year anniversary on this boat.a few years ago. It was a great way to spend an afternoon. Thank you Tiki boat for for taking care of us. Afternoon on the water on the Newport Bay with great company = wonderful. Really there was no way to go wrong! read more

BEWARE OF THE PARKING NIGHTMARE!! I left North County at 4:00 and barely made it in time for the 5:30 launch, because parking was a pain. Give yourself PLENTY (like 2 hours plenty) of time for traffic off the 55 freeway, and the one way traffic as you head to Balboa. My office hired the Tikiboat so we could view the Christmas Boat Parade in Balboa. Since this was a family event, the office hired the 5:30 -7:00 boat, which I would not recommend if you want to see the full parade. First, the 5:30 was just too early. The parade really didn't start until closer to 6:30, so by the time all the pretty boats came out, we had to head back to shore. Before the parade, the Tikiboat cruised around so we could see the homes all lit up. Sadly it was also raining, but luckily it stopped pouring while we were cruising, so we were able to stand outside with drizzles instead of being pelted by rain. While it was cold, we made the best of the situation. We had hot chocolate on the boat (not sure if we provided it or the Tikiboat) but it sure helped made things more festive. If I were to do this again, I'd pick a later time, like the 7:30 launch. Check groupon for deals, too. read more

This past Sunday (Memorial Day weekend), I was invited to a party on the Tikiboat. A friend reserved the boat for her boyfriend's bday party, and now I want to reserve the boat for my bday party!! We had an open bar, plenty of food (you can bring your own or go for a catering package), and a very cool boat to party on. An event on this boat can be explained much better, and quicker, by just visiting the website. The website has pics, prices, and many options to choose from so that you can host your own Tikiboat party. Man... good times! read more

Tikiboat - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

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The staff here were very welcoming and great hosts. The bartender did not skimp on the alcohol to mix in proportions and that was very much appreciated. The DJ had a great vibe; however, could vamp up the music selection a little bit! Although the boat is a little dated and very very simple, the staff was so very attentive that it made up for it. The food they catered on board was delicious too! When you first get on the boat, it seems as if the bottom floor is super super hot but once the boat gets moving through the harbor it's not bad at all. Great views and great time! read more

Tikiboat - Fun. - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

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My wife and I attended a friend's 50th birthday party on the Tikiboat. I had never heard of this thing even though I have been in O.C. for quite a while. It was an interesting experience. I am hovering between 3 and 4 stars, but I have to go with 3. Here's why: First, parking is a challenge. The dock is at the Balboa Fun Zone. The fun zone has seen better days, but it is still pretty packed. We did find parking in a lot that was about two blocks away, but some in our party had to walk six or seven blocks. The dock itself, the boat, and just about everything else have also seen better days. It was dark during our excursion, which was probably a good thing. The carpet, paint, stairs, furniture, and everything else were pretty old and worn. Certainly, this is not a lux harbor cruise by any stretch of the imagination. The bar and bartender were the highlight of the boat itself. Good selection, although I am sure my friends determined the drink selection. The bartender was friendly and made some good drinks. Of course, the best part of the evening was spending time with friends celebrating. The Tikiboat is an ok venue for such celebrations, but it needs updating before it goes into the prime venue category. read more

You can't go wrong with this crew! I set up our 2nd office party with this company. I must say they are easy to work with and more than reasonably priced. At the moment of inquiring, all my questions and concerns were answered. They helped with organizing the invite and even threw in a little extras with the food. Then, I cannot say enough about the crew. They were all courteous and helpful, and didn't seem to mind being asked 100 questions by the guests. The bartender had a GREAT disposition and the Captain was Awesome! I believe he's Aussie or Kiwi. The ONLY thing I would say about this company, is the boats are a bit on the 'older' and weathered side. (we've tried both) BUT, they were just fine during both our events. I gave 4 stars based on the crew, the food, the drinks, the music (we brought our own music), the setup, the event planner. I would definitely recommend them for an office or small corporate event/party. Thanks you TikiBoat crew! read more

We rented the Tikiboat for a 50th birthday party. The staff was really helpful and helped make the party a success. We were able to bring snacks and a cake on board. We had upgraded to open bar with top shelf alcohol. People seemed happy with the selection. We selected the Mexican food option. It was great! That would be my choice again. The DJ had a good selection of music. The boat itself is on the older side, but it was clean with an area open for dancing. Upstairs had plenty of seating. Booking the Tikiboat was a wonderful choice and I would return for another party. read more

Just had the best 50th birthday party for my wife. All of the crew made everything so easy for us as well as Melissa when we booked. We had several questions at different times and she was so helpful in answering. The bartender was great, I had a mai tai and it was one of the best. They were very accommodating since we had some late arrivals. Overall the best birthday my wife has ever had. read more

We had our annual hospital Christmas Party here again a few days ago. Our OB doctors throw these awesome parties for us nurses every year. I am truly fortunate to work with wonderful and generous physicians. The Tiki Boat staff was extremely accomodating to this party of 50. They were friendly and courteous. Awesome food. Virtually an open bar for us nurses thanks to our doc who hosted this shindig. Great sounds from the live DJs. Overall an awesome night. Even mother nature stopped the rain for us during our dinner cruise. Indeed a great view from the deck. Side note: no check-ins and no photos since I was not really all that sober once we arrived at the dock. Hey! I was off the clock! ;P read more

Good times. Cool crew, smooth cruise, great atmosphere, and $7m views the whole way down Balboa Island and the Peninsula. read more

Tikiboat - Sunset on The Tiki... And yes, it was sweeeeeet. - Tours Near Me - Balboa, California

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We had my dad's 75th birthday with them last year and it was a total blast. The boat is a good size for a party of 50-80 especially with the two levels. Everyone we dealt with was professional and thoughtful. The DJ, bartender, crew were all top notch. My dad had a great time and our guests loved it! read more

I had been wanting to take this boat all summer and finally did! We had the best experience and our captain was so sweet and helpful. Gorgeous sunset! I love that you BYOB read more

We rented the Tiki Boat for my fiancee's Dirty 30 birthday party (pirate themed, of course). The Fun Zone Boat Company, and Tiki Boat crew were amazing to work with start to finish. When I made the reservations, Hank in the management office was super helpful in working with me to put together a package for our party - about 50 guests, food, DJ, and OPEN BAR. The value for the price, compared to the yacht rentals I was initially looking at, was a million times better. Best of all, the price included everything so no hidden permit, taxes, or bartender fees. On the boat itself, Captain Fletch and his entire crew were awesome. The bartender was super nice, and could keep up with our party (a feat in itself). Every person who was on the boat had a great time, and most commented on how great the crew was. When I initially booked, I was a little nervous about how good the food, well bar, and DJ would be, since the price was so good. I can honestly say the food was delicious, the DJ was great, and the "well" bar included Stoli, Kettle, and 1800. I would give these guys 10 stars if I could. If you're looking to book any private party event where a good time is sure thing, this is totally it. read more

Just had my fraternitys annual banquet here, and I must say the crew and fun zone are absolutely amazing! shout outs to the awesome dj and bartender! read more

Had my 30th bday on this boat last Friday night and had a great time. Staff was extremely helpful during the boarding process and once we departed the dj mashed up some great tunes. Food was solid and our bartender was a sweetheart. Would highly recommend for a big gathering or special occasion! read more

Wow!!! I planned an office party here based on the recommendation of someone that had used the Tiki Boat before and I'm so glad we did this! First of all, planning it was a no brainer. I didn't have to do anything much - the open bar package is the way to go. The value is phenomenal!! The office staff was so helpful answering my many questions and getting the boat booked. I think her name is Alyssa. A DJ was included with that package and DJ Sly got everyone moving. We were able to use his microphone as well. Our bartender Jose was so great with helping me set up, including walking out to my car to carry a giant, heavy sheet cake in for me - and with a smile! Captain Eric made sure everything was smooth sailing. I am so upset with myself that I can't recall the other crew member's name, but he was so nice and helpful too. I don't blame Tiki Boat for the parking situation, but definitely plan on a rideshare if you can during the weekends and summer/fall. It's Balboa Island and just one of the realities of the area to encounter heavy traffic and parking issues. The pictures also show that the boat definitely isn't new, but I thought it added to the Tiki vibe. Once people are inside, who can even see the floor? Lol! For the price, I hope people aren't expecting a yacht with gourmet food. We chose the Mexican dinner and it was delicious with our drinks. Fancy? No, but it was good and there was plenty provided. I didn't find the need for extra decorations and it made my life way easier not having to worry about that. If you are looking for a great deal on dinner and drinks on a boat, I highly recommend Tiki Boat. Every single person I encountered working there made planning and the execution so easy. The staff on hand made sure everyone was having a great time and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Five stars based on value, staff and fun had by my group. read more

My cousin had his 30th birthday on the Tiki Boat last Saturday and had a lot of fun. The drink prices were reasonable and the food catering was good. We had Thai food but was told they have different food options you can choose from. The DJ played a good variety of music we enjoyed listening and dancing to. I would recommend the Tiki boat to have a fun party on!! read more

Take a nostalgia tour on Newport's coolest vessel! We just hosted our annual high school fundraising event on board the Tiki Boat- The entire staff are great, friendly, helpful and really nice. Thanks for a wonderful evening! read more

Despite some initial reservation hiccups tikki boat and the entire crew were absolutely incredible. In 45 minutes they threw together the most memorable and fun birthday I've ever had. Food was incredible, bartender was fun, captain was amazing. The last minute DJ even picked up on our theme and my party's vibe and played an amazing list of songs. I would HIGHLY recommend Fun Zone/Tikki Boat to anyone looking for a good time party. read more

Had a small, somewhat impromptu staff party here. Coincidentally on the last day before winter break! Had a great time! The bartender poured expertly and generously. The DJ played pretty much anything we asked to hear. Seemed perfect for he 70-75 people group range. Uber or park in the Balboa Pier read more

We had our Holiday Christmas party for the first time on the Tiki Boat and it was fantastic! The entire team was super easy to work with and treated us like family. The captain, DJ Daniel and crew did an excellent job making everyone comfortable and it was the best part ever! We chose the Thai menu and Charlie was super flexible on the desserts and just as he had told us, it exceeded our expectations. Everyone has the best time ever and we look forward to our next trip! Ho ho ho... read more

What a fun way to spend the afternoon! It was a really clear day and not a lot of rocking on the boat. Fun times!

we chartered the tiki boat it was a blast. the crew is friendly and the food and drinks. yummy!

This boat is so much fun! We celebrated my husband's 30th birthday on a Friday night. The crew was friendly and they worked with me the whole time I was planning the event. I would recommend this boat to anyone who is looking for an affordable boat cruise in Newport Beach. Great open bar, fun music, good food! read more

We threw my wife a 40th birthday part. The crew and bartenders were amazing. We had such a blast and the prices were very reasonable. I would love to use them for another party! read more

We rented the Tikiboat for 4th of July weekend, it was an absolute blast. DJ's, drinks, loud music, and smiling faces all around. the boat was beautiful, such a great setup, room to do whatever you can imagine. The captain and crew are so wonderful, laid back and friendly. we would recommend this boat for any event you would like to throw. they will work with you on any ideas. 5 STARS from us!!!! read more