When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Zolna Yachts
Why Zolna Yachts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Zolna Yachts offers an unparalleled yacht charter experience in San Diego, distinguished by its luxurious vessels, particularly the renowned Nerissa Motor Yacht. Operating since 2007, Zolna Yachts specializes in private cruises that perfectly blend the scenic beauty of San Diego Bay with exceptional service. Their flagship, the Nerissa, accommodates up to 49 guests and serves as an exceptional venue for private celebrations, corporate meetings, and unforgettable parties. The company is helmed by Captain Anthony Austin, a seasoned mariner with extensive experience navigating open waters and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. The personalized approach extends through every aspect of the charter, including flexible catering options and attentive, professional crew service. Yacht charters from Zolna bring together breathtaking coastal views, premium amenities, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for bonding with friends, celebrating milestones, or hosting impressive business events. The team’s deep roots in San Diego and passion for the sea foster a unique, welcoming environment for all guests. Whether seeking a relaxing afternoon cruise, a lively sunset celebration, or an elegant private reception, Zolna Yachts provides a memorable maritime experience that highlights the best of Southern California’s coastal lifestyle.
Here's what people think of Zolna Yachts
As of recent, Zolna Yachts holds a 5-star rating based on 264 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise Zolna Yachts for delivering a luxurious and highly enjoyable experience. Many guests highlight the stunning appearance of the Nerissa yacht and the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. Positive feedback often mentions the yacht’s ambiance as perfect for both relaxing afternoons and lively celebrations, noting the excellent food and well-prepared drinks. Attentive staff and flexible accommodations, including the ability to bring personal caterers and tailored event setups, receive frequent commendations. Guests have also appreciated the seamless organization of events ranging from corporate parties to personal milestones like weddings and graduations, often emphasizing how the scenic San Diego views and sunset cruises enhanced the overall experience. On the other hand, negative reviews are rare but tend to focus on minor logistical issues or personal preferences that don’t meet every expectation. Some customers have noted the premium pricing, reflecting the high-end service and exclusive setting, which may not suit all budgets. However, the overwhelming sentiment remains positive, with reviewers recommending Zolna Yachts for anyone seeking a unique, upscale encounter on the water. The combined expert navigation, customer-focused approach, and beautiful yacht create an exceptional charter service that has earned Zolna Yachts a perfect rating from hundreds of satisfied clients.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
George Guerra
We used the Nerissa for a 70th Birthday party last weekend- it was incredible! Shari and the team did an amazing job taking care of everyone and we loved it. Captain Peter was excellent and did a great job with the kids on board making them Honorary Captains. Cameron was a great bartender and made outstanding drinks. Annabelle was so helpful and everyone loved her. The food by Flavor Chef (recommended by Shari) was the best! I would highly recommend using Zolna Yachts- they are OUTSTANDING!
Benjamin Stendahl
We had a group outing on the Nerissa in the San Diego bay. It was a chilly day but the boat was extremely comfortable with places in the sun, shade, indoor and outdoor. The staff were excellent and the service at the bar was superb. From the boat we were able to watch military aircraft fly overhead. We saw sea life all around us from seals to dolphins and more. Our excursion included a route along the side of the USS Midway with an up and close view. All in all it was an excellent outing for our corporate group. I highly recommend.
Jocelyn
Had the most unforgettable birthday party on the Nerissa. My friends and I had the most amazing time and were amazed at how well everything came together. The yacht is also beautiful and so much space for everyone to be comfortable inside or outside. The crew’s service was also amazing and very communicative. Shari was great and working with her was such a breeze. She was extremely accommodating and I will definitely come back for future events!
Rachel Hasson
I went on the Nerissa yesterday for sea sessions and it was the most beautiful experience I had in a long time! The artist was exceptional and the experience was so unique and memorable! We cruised in the bay, saw the downtown views and the military base, it was so beautiful and smooth. Great crew and great drinks! I will for sure come back again and bring my friends!!!!!
Taylor Wood
I booked Zolna for an after engagement party sunset cruise with friends and family. We had the best time aboard with Shari and the rest of the crew making everything seamless, so we could have fun and relax! The drinks were great, food was delicious (Cucina Migrante catered from their list), and the views were spectacular! Would highly recommend them for any sort of celebration out on the water in San Diego!
How to reach Zolna Yachts
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Why Zolna Yachts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Zolna Yachts with your friends? When looking to host an unforgettable gathering, Zolna Yachts offers an exceptional blend of luxury, comfort, and unique experiences that make it the perfect venue to rally your friends. Imagine sailing the stunning San Diego Bay aboard a beautiful, meticulously maintained yacht, the Nerissa—a 73-foot Bonner Navigator Motor Yacht that offers an elegant yet intimate setting. As you gather with your friends, you are enveloped in breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, including iconic landmarks like the Coronado Bay Bridge, while enjoying impeccable service from an attentive crew dedicated to ensuring your experience is flawless. The atmosphere aboard an exclusive yacht immediately elevates any event into a sophisticated celebration, adding an adventurous twist to your meetup that land-based venues simply cannot match. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, anniversary, or just a special occasion, Zolna Yachts’ stress-free, customizable environment lets you and your friends connect, celebrate, and create memories on the water, all while enjoying first-class amenities and personalized catering and bar services. Rallying at Zolna Yachts means turning a simple get-together into a spectacular party afloat, with a cozy yet luxe vibe that is designed to delight every member of your group.
What activities can you enjoy on Zolna Yachts that make it ideal for a group meetup? Zolna Yachts offers a wide array of activities and experiences tailored to group celebrations, making it a versatile and dynamic venue for meetups. One of the key highlights is cruising the picturesque San Diego Bay, where guests can relax on deck with champagne in hand while watching a stunning sunset or marvel at city and harbor views by day. The yacht’s spacious design allows groups to spread out and socialize comfortably, whether mingling in cozy indoor lounges or basking outside in the fresh sea air. Having your own private bartender and waitstaff means you can enjoy custom cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served seamlessly throughout the cruise, promoting a leisurely and luxurious vibe. Another popular activity is dancing under the stars on the yacht’s dance floor, supported by onboard audio/visual equipment that allows you to DJ your own soundtrack or hire professionals. Additionally, Zolna Yachts is perfect for specialized events such as weddings, corporate functions, or milestone celebrations, offering event-planning assistance, catering customizable to dietary needs, and the option to bring your own caterer or DJ. Each experience aboard the yacht blends sophisticated relaxation with lively entertainment, ensuring all your friends enjoy an engaging, immersive gathering.
Why is Zolna Yachts the perfect venue for personal celebrations and corporate events alike? Zolna Yachts’ unique combination of luxury amenities and exceptional service makes it an ideal choice for both personal milestones and professional gatherings. The yacht’s capacity is intimate enough for close-knit groups—up to 49 guests—allowing meaningful interactions without the distractions of large, noisy venues. For weddings, the upper deck provides an enchanting setting with unbeatable views, perfect for the ceremony and photographs, while receptions flow into the spacious, elegantly appointed lower decks. The crew’s comprehensive services include setup, cleanup, audio/visual technology, bar services with open or specialty drink packages, and even “get ready” rooms, which ease the logistical burdens on hosts. For corporate events, the yacht presents a sophisticated environment for team building, client entertainment, or celebrations, complete with tailored catering and attentive staff who accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences to make every guest feel valued. This careful attention to detail, flexible event packages, and the stunning natural backdrop of the San Diego harbor collectively create an atmosphere of exclusivity and comfort that impresses any audience, personal or professional. The seamless blend of convenience, style, and stunning views makes Zolna Yachts a premier venue choice.
How do customer reviews reflect the Zolna Yachts experience for groups? The consistently glowing customer reviews for Zolna Yachts underscore its reputation as an outstanding venue for group meetups. Guests praise the beautiful condition of the Nerissa yacht, often highlighting the luxurious woodwork and contemporary design that create a warm, inviting ambiance. Many reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, particularly mentioning staff members like Shari, Amos, and Lexi, who go above and beyond to provide personalized, attentive service. Groups report that the yacht offers both an exciting party atmosphere and a relaxing escape, with features such as fresh, expertly crafted cocktails, customizable catering options, and an easy-going yet organized cruise experience. Several testimonials describe celebrations such as anniversaries, graduations, and corporate events that received rave marks for smooth coordination, flexibility (including bringing outside caterers or DJs), and overall enjoyment. The consistently perfect 5.0 rating based on over 260 reviews reflects the high level of customer satisfaction: from scenic sailing and friendly service to memorable entertainment, Zolna Yachts delivers on its promise of an extraordinary group experience.
What makes the Nerissa yacht unique and how is it tailored for an unforgettable event? The Nerissa yacht is the centerpiece of Zolna Yachts’ offerings and is designed to provide a distinctive, luxurious setting for any group event. At 73 feet long, this Bonner Navigator Motor Yacht boasts sophisticated architecture with beautifully detailed wood interiors that create a warm yet elegant environment. Its dual-deck layout offers versatility: the upper deck is ideal for ceremonies or casual mingling against a panoramic backdrop of San Diego’s harbor, while the lower deck features comfortable lounges, a dance floor, and an efficient bar area perfect for dining and entertainment. The yacht’s amenities include high-quality audio/visual equipment and reliable Wi-Fi, enabling seamless music, announcements, or presentations, catering to both festive and formal occasions. The design focuses on guest comfort and style, enabling groups of up to 49 to connect intimately without feeling crowded. Additionally, the Nerissa’s crew provides invaluable support, managing everything from setup to cleanup, allowing hosts to enjoy their time without worries. This blend of aesthetic elegance, practical functionality, and attentive service transforms each cruise into a bespoke event floating on water, making the Nerissa an unforgettable venue choice.
How can food and drink enhance your group meetup on Zolna Yachts? Food and drink play a vital role in shaping a memorable gathering on Zolna Yachts, with catering and bar services tailored to complement the luxurious ambiance of the yacht. Guests can select from customizable catering menus that range from elegant plated dinners and stations to cocktail receptions and hors d’oeuvres, ensuring flexibility to match the style and pace of your meetup. The catering team is attentive to dietary restrictions and preferences, guaranteeing all guests feel included and well cared for. Bar service options are plentiful, ranging from cash bars to open bars featuring house wines, beers, and liquors, as well as specialty and signature drinks crafted to elevate the experience. Champagne toasts and handcrafted cocktails served by professional bartenders contribute to a festive, celebratory mood, while the ability to bring your own caterer or customize drink packages adds further personalization. Together, these offerings create a seamless flow of refreshment and indulgence that keeps your group energized, happy, and socially engaged throughout the cruise.
What is the overall atmosphere and vibe guests can expect at Zolna Yachts? Guests at Zolna Yachts can expect a perfect balance of sophistication, relaxation, and vibrant celebration that makes every gathering special. The atmosphere is set by the stunning waterfront location and the elegant yet inviting design of the Nerissa yacht, which encourages both lively interaction and peaceful enjoyment. Attentive and friendly crew members foster a welcoming environment where hosts and guests alike feel pampered and at ease. Whether you are dancing to your own curated playlist on the upper deck, chatting with friends over drinks in cozy lounges, or simply soaking in the breathtaking sunset views, the vibe remains effortlessly upscale yet warm and inclusive. The yacht’s ambiance supports a diverse range of celebrations—from intimate personal milestones like weddings and anniversaries to energizing corporate events and casual social meetups. This versatility, combined with flawless service and high-end amenities, ensures every event aboard Zolna Yachts is as lively or laid-back as you desire, making it a top choice for any group looking to make lasting memories together.