Mellisa Goodwin Entertaining the Guests on GRAVITY during 2023 Christmas Parade
The Marina del Rey Christmas Boat Parade is a holiday tradition that has illuminated Southern California’s waterways for over 60 years. Since its debut in 1963, the event has grown into one of the largest and most anticipated holiday parades in the region, attracting thousands of spectators each year. The parade features boats of all sizes — from small sailboats to massive luxury yachts — decked out in festive decorations, all competing for the coveted titles of "Best in Show," "Best Theme," and other awards.
The parade will be held December 14, and should attract an estimated 100,000 to 125,000 attendees who gather along the harbor and on boats to enjoy the stunning displays of holiday cheer. The event’s festive spirit and dazzling array of lights bring the local community together in a way that’s as much about celebration as it is about honoring the season.
The parade is also televised, giving those who can’t make it in person the chance to enjoy the spectacle from home. The Marina del Rey Christmas Boat Parade will be broadcast on NBC LA and will be available for viewing both on television and through online streaming platforms, allowing even more people to participate in the holiday magic.
Catalina Crew’s Involvement: A Winning Entry and Bigger Plans for 2024
For the past few years, Catalina Crew, a nautical lifestyle brand and top provider of a plethora of essential marine services, has been a participant in the parade. Last year, their entry — the stunning Azimut 85 yacht, Gravity — won the prestigious Best Charter Award, thanks to its beautifully executed decorations and overall holiday flair. With a commitment to excellence, Catalina Crew set a high standard for future participation in the parade.
This year, Catalina Crew is taking things to the next level with even more extravagant decorations and a larger community effort. In honor of the iconic Jimmy Buffett this year’s theme for Christmas parade will be a Margarita-ville Christmas, celebrating Buffett’s laid-back, tropical lifestyle with a festive, island-inspired twist. Picture palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights, flamingos in Santa hats, and a colorful nautical paradise — all aboard an 85-foot luxury yacht! The Gravity yacht will embody the warmth of tropical holidays, mixing fun, relaxation, and the spirit of the season with a nod to the iconic singer-songwriter’s legacy.
Catalina Crew is also partnering with students from Loyola Marymount University (LMU) to help decorate the yacht, fostering a sense of community and giving students hands-on experience in event planning and yacht decoration. This collaboration not only brings fresh creativity to the display but also strengthens ties with the local community and university. We would like to give a special thanks to Professor D' Mello who works in the school of Entreprenuership at LMU for organizing the students to come help make Gravity look her best!
A Special Guest: Nick Itkin, Olympic Fencer, as Grand Marshal
This year’s parade will feature Nick Itkin, a local Olympic fencer from Palos Verdes, as the Grand Marshal. Itkin, who represented the United States and won a bronze medal at both Paris 2024 & Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. His involvement in this years parade adds a touch of local pride to the event, inspiring attendees with his athletic achievements and dedication to excellence.
As Grand Marshal, Nick Itkin will lead the parade, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities and creating a memorable experience for everyone in attendance.
The Catalina Crew Foundation: A Commitment to Giving Back
Catalina Crew isn’t just about luxury yachts and marine services. Through the Catalina Crew Foundation, the organization is deeply invested in giving back to the community. The foundation supports various charitable causes, particularly focusing on youth development, education, and opportunities for young people to engage with the maritime activites and conservation.
By bringing the Azimut 85 Gravity to the Marina del Rey Boat Parade, The Catalina Crew Foundation highlights its mission to make a positive impact through community outreach, and the Margarita-ville Christmas theme also emphasizes the joy of giving and sharing the holiday spirit.
For more information on the Catalina Crew Foundation and its philanthropic initiatives, you can visit our foundation page www.catalinacrew.com/foundation.
The 2024 Marina del Rey Christmas Boat Parade: What to Expect
This year’s Marina del Rey Christmas Boat Parade promises to be bigger and better than ever before. With a stunning Margaritaville Christmas theme aboard the Gravity, the parade’s most anticipated yacht entry will bring a lively, tropical twist to the holiday season. Featuring a collaboration with LMU students and an appearance by Olympic fencer Nick Itkin as Grand Marshal, the 2024 parade will showcase the spirit of community, creativity, and festive fun.
Join us for this iconic Southern California event, which will be televised on NBC LA for those who can't make it in person. Whether you’re attending with friends and family or tuning in from home, the parade is an event that brings together the best of holiday cheer, local culture, and maritime celebration. Don’t miss the chance to see Gravity light up the harbor in a truly unforgettable way!
Make sure to mark your calendars for December 14, 2024 at 5:30 PM PST and prepare for a night filled with lights, music, and memories at the Marina del Rey Christmas Boat Parade!
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