Isn't it weird that you live right next to the ocean but are rarely ever on the ocean? In Marina del Rey, sunset sailing tours abound, but there's something special about the tours led by Captain Matthew Mancini at Old Plank Sailing Adventures. For a two- or three-hour sail, you and a group of friends get Mancini as your easygoing, all-knowledgeable, personal guide to the water. Mancini wows his guests by answering any and every question you may have about the sea and by sharing his own fascinating stories of life as a sailor, but if you're there for the privacy, just head to the front of the boat. He's happy as a clam simply steering the ship for you. You can bring your own wine and food, and he'll also provide some rosé and tasty hors d'oeuvres. But if you've got time for a two- to four-day all-inclusive island trip, Captain Mancini's a hell of a cook, specializing in Italian dishes (obviously featuring lots of fish). Book ahead of time, because the captain's becoming a popular guy.

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