Gondola Getaway

Specialties

We offer hour long gondola cruises through the enchanting canals of Naples Islands, Long Beach. We were the first Gondola business in America and now have the largest fleet of Gondolas in America and the most authentic location. From a romantic cruise for 2 to an entire fleet of 62 we offer something special to any size group. We do Pizza Cruises for up to ten persons, weddings for up to 62 with floating chapel and great concepts for proposals, birthdays, restaurant packages, hotel packages, wine tastings or just a great hour on one of the most beautiful waterways in the world. We are also affiliated with the Big Red Bus double-​decker buses here in Long Beach, so transportation is of no problem. www​.bigred​bus​.com. If a boat ride is what you need we are a great option, but if a Gondola is what you need, we are the ONLY option.

Grazie mille,

Michelangelo

History

Established in 1982.

The business started as a marketing class project at the University of Southern California by Michael O’Toole. He grew up in the Naples Island area of Long Beach and knew the history of Gondolas in the area from back in 1902. Upon graduation, O’Toole went to Italy and learned how the boats were built and came back and started building the fleet.

Now after almost 30 years he has raced Gondolas in Italy 25 years in a row, trained over 300 local gondoliers and sent out Thousands and thousands of thrilled guests on one hour excursions through the enchanting canals of Naples Islands, Long Beach, CA

Meet the Business Owner

Michael O.

Business Owner

I have been on this dock now for over 40 years. I started sailing here as a kid and then started the Gondola Business almost 30 years ago. I still am on the dock every day making sure the boats and the business is prepared and ready to go for every customer that will ultimately enjoy one of the best experiences offered in Southern California, the Gondola Getaway.