Wedding planning is a special time filled with excitement and wonder. And at FantaSea Yachts, it’s the name of the game.
We’ve served the Los Angeles area since 1980 and are proud to call the beautiful Marina del Rey our home. We’re even prouder to say that yacht weddings and wedding planning is in our DNA. It’s what we do, but more importantly, it’s what we LOVE to do.
Our experienced wedding planners are always thrilled to share their expertise, tips and tricks to help bring your vision to life.
So, whether you’ve booked with us or are considering us for your big day, we’re sharing seven tips for planning the perfect yacht wedding.
- Location, Location, Location!
When planning a wedding, there are three words that never go out of style: Location, Location, Location!
If your dream venue consists of ocean views, spectacular sunsets and a cool coastal breeze, then Marina del Rey just might be the destination for you. Adding to this dream locale is the fact that the Marina is located just four miles from LAX, making it easy for out-of-town guests to join the celebration.
It’s also minutes from world-famous Venice Beach and sun-kissed Santa Monica – two beach cities that complete the Southern California “must see” bucket list.
And don’t forget that with the right location comes view, views, views. Our guests are often wowed by fiery sunsets perched upon a shimmering ocean and viewed aboard a stunning party yacht.
You’ll experience unparalleled views of the Los Angeles coastline and even see an unexpected yacht wedding guest in the occasional dolphin or two.
A FantaSea yacht wedding serves up million dollar views in a romantic setting that are beyond Instagram worthy.
- Set The Stage For Your Wedding Yacht Charter
Grand or intimate? Traditional or themed? Whatever you decide will set the tone for your wedding and will help build your accents, decor and other creative touches. Once you set a course, the fun is in the details.
Speaking of details…don’t shy away from them.
Whether it’s using an inside joke as the name of your signature cocktail, a customized dessert table or incorporating family heirlooms and photos at your celebration, the magic — as they say — is in the details. This is your chance to wow your guests with personalized efforts that will leave a lasting impression. Embrace it!
Day Or Night
Having your wedding on a yacht is a great way to make your special day stand out from the rest.
From breathtaking views and first-class service to the simple fact that you’re on a yacht, there are many unique characteristics, including a beautiful cruise on the water.
Depending on the time of day, your celebration can bask in the famous Southern California sunshine or sparkle under the night stars. And it’s up to you to decide.
Do you envision cocktail dresses and sharp suits? Formal gowns and classic tuxedos? Then your wedding is best suited for the evening. If you’re opting for a more casual feel with a bright, airy vibe and gorgeous brunch display, then daytime is probably best.
Couples often think of the Marina’s gorgeous backdrop as an added bonus to their big day.
Brides and grooms look forward to a spectacular sunset for amazing photos and rely on the twinkling lights of the harbor and stars to add to the romance. Our daytime couples enjoy the sights on the water, like those coveted coastline views all the way to Malibu.
Daytime is also great for seeing wildlife (always a hit!) and yacht spotting in the harbor. But the magic can also come alive at night. Think special lighting enhancements (gobos and sparklers) and other fun details.
Whether you opt for sunset, stars or sunny skies, we’ve got your back.
- Menu Delights
It’s no secret that deciding on a menu is one of the most important factors to consider when planning a wedding. So why make it complicated?
At FantaSea Yachts, there’s no need for off-site catering with our talented culinary team at the helm. Our chef (trained at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel) has served FantaSea Yachts for more than 20 years. From distinctive cocktail hour bites and custom appetizers to a three-course dinner and full-spread buffet, Chef Eddie and the staff does it all. Our menu is seasonal, but can be tailored to meet dietary needs.
- Select Your Vendors
Our team is an experienced group of event planning professionals with a deep and trusted vendor list ready to serve. Need help with a DJ, band or florist? We can recommend proven crowd-pleasers.
Considering table linens? We’ll arrange for full table mock-ups to help you decide your best look. If you have your own dream team in mind, no problem! We’re happy to coordinate logistics on your behalf.
- Set Your Budget And Guest List
As you build your guest list, ask yourself if you want a big bash or intimate affair?
Determining a headcount from the beginning will ease the headache of unaccounted space issues and expenses. It will also determine the best yacht rental for your wedding AND your budget.
Establishing a budget early-on will help identify your priorities. Is it entertainment? Decor? Flowers? With monies clearly earmarked, you can confidently set forth wedding planning.
- Choose Your Yacht
Selecting the right venue will set the tone for your wedding. At FantaSea Yachts, you have the luxury (and flexibility) of selecting a yacht based on your needs and vision. From spacious rooftop decks to elegant chandeliers, we’re confident our luxury yachts are an unforgettable wedding venue.
Not sure which yacht is best for you? Read on for an overview of our signature yachts.
FantaSea One
The largest of our fleet, FantaSea One is sure to WOW your guests. Its signature feature is an expansive rooftop which is often eyed for yacht weddings, corporate events and sunset sails or moonlit cruises. She can accommodate up to 300 guests so don’t be afraid to pack that dance floor! Other unique features include its modern Captain’s Lounge, formal (but customizable) seating area and beautiful marble bar that will quickly become a fixture of the evening.
Dandeana
Our Flagship yacht, Dandeana is a popular choice for a reason: She’s a beaut. Clients love its sleek design and modern touches while guests marvel at its glass windows and sparkling views. Its deck (though smaller than FantaSea One), offers guests the opportunity to experience rooftop views of ocean sunsets and moonlit skies.
Perhaps you’re looking for a beach wedding without the muss and fuss of sand. Dandeana is the perfect alternative to a beach wedding. She can accommodate up to 130 guests and is often recognized for appearances in popular movies and TV shows.
Ready to plan your Los Angeles yacht wedding? Give us a call at (310) 827-2220 or click here to submit an event query form.
