Canyon to Coast

Duffy boats are a characteristic feature of Newport Bay. These little transport boats criss-cross the waters around Lido Isle and Balboa Island at most hours. They're easy to use, comfortable, and great to rent for a few hours of ocean-going fun.

My wife and I thoroughly enjoy renting a “Duffy” electric boat at Duffy Electric Boat Rentals on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach.

Newport Harbor is a fantastic area to cruise with friends and family and view the sights. We enjoy going in the early evening (although anytime is a good time) as the sun goes down and harbor lights light up the night. It is very relaxing.

The boats are comfortable with full stereo and an iPod hookup, cushioned seats surrounding a central table to enjoy your own assortment of food and beverages, full canopy, and full window enclosures (in the event the air is chilly).

Best Harbor Restaurants at Newport Beach

We also enjoying tying up our Duffy at one of several great places in Newport Harbor to dine.

Dining options within Newport Bay include:

• Rusty Pelican
• Nobu Newport Beach
• Woody's Wharf
• The Dock
• Bluewater Grill
• A&O Kitchen + Bar
• Waterline

Duffy Rentals' office offers free popcorn and souvenirs to purchase while either waiting to board or disembark. The staff are very friendly and helpful.

So, if you're looking to rent a boat for the day in Newport Beach, then we definitely recommend Duffy Electric Boat Rentals.

However, if you're closer to Corona del Mar or Balboa Island, then check out Voyager Rentals. They'll have you cruising around, enjoying the sights around Balboa Bay in no time. 

Booking a Duffy or Boat Rental with Voyager Rentals

You can book your reservation with Voyager Rentals online for however many hours you would like. Then, check-in right at the Duffy (adjacent to the Balboa Ferry which takes you across to the Balboa Peninsula), and a Voyager Rentals employee will be there to show you the ropes.

Voyager Rentals will even supply a little map that demonstrates a great route to put around the bay. When we go, it’s usually with friends, in the evenings. We’ll bring cheese and wine to watch the sunset, then dock at one of the local waterfront restaurants. It’s such a fun experience for anyone as it’s simple to set up and they are easy to drive as well! You will immediately begin to feel like a local and if you are already, well, what are you waiting for!

Questions About Duffy Boats:

What is a Duffy boat?

A Duffy is a small electric-powered ocean craft designed for relaxed seating, sight-seeing, and dining. They're easy to handle and perfectly suited to calm waters, like bays or canals.

Why is it called a Duffy boat?

Duffy boats are named after their inventor, Marshall "Duffy" Duffield, a successful boat builder based in California. Duffy built his first electric boat in the 1960s and has since built thousands of Duffy boats from his location in Newport Harbor. 

Are Duffy boats safe?

All boats have their risks, but Duffy boats are some of the safest out there. Duffy boats are easy to drive and very stable in the water. Take it slow and stay in calm waters and you won't have any trouble.  

Interested in Newport Beach or Corona del Mar? Find our community information pages here.