A nearly century-old yacht docked in Los Angeles is now open to the public for food and drink service.
The Northwind Experience at the California Yacht Club in Marina del Rey opened to the public this week for the first time in history, offering guests the opportunity to make reservations for cocktails, evening dining or weekend brunch.
Officials say the Northwind Experience is the only “publicly accessible upscale food-and-beverage destination on the water in Marina del Rey.”
Services include a sunset experience on Fridays and Saturdays from 3 p.m to 10 p.m., featuring golden hour cocktail, curated bites, music and a harbor sunset. Sunday brunch service from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. features food service and morning cocktails with harbor viewing across the yacht’s open decks.
Each reservation allows guests to wander the historic boat deck by deck and find a private place to enjoy their exclusive stay.
What is the Northwind Experience?
Commissioned in 1930 during the “golden age of Yachting,” the historic 130-foot Northwind was designed to be a luxury motor yacht that offered performance and residential comfort. Officials say it found a new purpose during WWII, likely as a patrol or transport vessel.
“She passed through a series of owners, each leaving their mark — navigation upgrades, refined interiors, deck enhancements — always balancing heritage with the times,” the boat’s website states.
Recognized as a vessel worth preserving, it has since been carefully restored and modernized for today’s hospitality experience and safety requirements.
While embracing its new life as a restaurant and bar, the Northwind also serves as wedding venue, corporate event space or filming location.
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It’s the latest chapter for the historic vessel, which has previously hosted the likes of Winston Churchill, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and other “notable travelers, dignitaries, tastemakers, and cultural icons throughout the decades.”
The boat’s restoration was meant to create an “experiential destination” that helps visitors connect with the ocean, according to California Yacht Club President Jeff Weiss.
“The Northwind Experience was designed to make one feel like they are embarking upon a cinematic journey that blends exceptional food, small batch wine and spirits, handcrafted cocktails, rich history and upscale hospitality aboard a classic yacht,” Weiss said in a news release. “From the moment guests step aboard, we want people to feel transported and part of a story that spans generations.”
How does dining service work on the Northwind Experience?
Visitors aboard the Northwind will enjoy a modern culinary program crafted by head chef Charles Voudouris, who officials say has honed his skills at high-class restaurants across the globe, including Versace Mansion in Miami, Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York City and the illustrious Noma in Copenhagen.
Guests will be served throughout the yacht in private dining rooms and open-air decks, enjoying a seasonal “sea-to-table” menu that is designed to “inspire sharing and connection.”
The restaurant dining experience will feature signature cocktails and a curated selection of wines and spirits.
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“The Northwind Experience is where exceptional hospitality, timeless maritime heritage, and the beauty of Marina del Rey come together,” Weiss added. “Our goal is for every guest to leave with a story to tell, a memory to cherish, and the feeling that they’ve discovered one of Los Angeles’ truly special places.”
Those interested in plotting a culinary trip on the Northwind can reserve a table, see upcoming events and find hosting information on its dedicated website.
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