Old Plank Adventures: Sail into Deep Tranquility
LUXURY SAILING | THERAPEUTIC ESCAPES | GOURMET CUISINE | INTIMATE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Immerse yourself in the timeless Mediterranean elegance along Southern California’s glittering Riviera. Let the Pacific’s gentle rhythms dissolve stress as you glide into profound relaxation, sharing up-close wildlife moments while savoring exquisite, live-crafted cuisine from Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini.
OUR EXCLUSIVE FEATURES
Who We Are?
Old Plank Sailing Adventures is a boutique luxury sailing charter and aquatic expedition company, delivering gourmet 5-star experiences on the sparkling waters of Santa Monica Bay and beyond. Founded by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini—a USCG-licensed master mariner and culinary artist—we’re backed by a tight-knit crew of lifelong ocean lovers who live for the sea. We move with the currents, plan by the tides, and chase the sun across the SoCal Riviera.
- Deeply passionate about exceptional food and the profound harmony of the ocean
- Committed to sharing the transformative peace that comes from syncing with the rhythms of the waves
- Overjoyed to pass on our lifelong love for sailing, gourmet cuisine, and the healing magic of the water—turning every guest into part of the crew (and often lifelong friends)
What Do We Do?
We whisk you away on safe, exhilarating private sails across Santa Monica Bay—or venture farther into the open Pacific for true adventure. Feel the thrill of the wind filling the sails, the timeless pulse of the ocean beneath you, and the irresistible aroma of gourmet cuisine unfolding in the salty breeze—crafted live by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini.
We deliver unforgettable moments that blend serenity, excitement, and indulgence:
- Chase fiery sunrises over the horizon and bask in golden midday light
- Unwind beneath breathtaking sunsets and starlit, moon-drenched skies—enhanced by state-of-the-art full-spectrum underwater lighting schemes by Lumitec that illuminate the depths in vivid, customizable colors and gently attract our wildlife friends (dolphins, seals, and glowing wonders) for mesmerizing nighttime encounters
- Dance alongside playful dolphins, curious sea lions, and majestic whales—often while harvesting fresh seafood straight from the bay
- Live the effortless Mediterranean dream—right here on Southern California’s stunning Riviera
- Forge deep connections and create memories so profound, guests depart feeling like lifelong family (and often return as friends)
Our Mission
At Old Plank Sailing Adventures, we transport the sun-drenched elegance and effortless serenity of the Mediterranean lifestyle to the sun-kissed shores of Southern California. Our purpose is to guide guests into a profound slowdown—where the gentle rhythms of the Pacific invite stillness, unlock natural self-healing, and foster a deep reconnection with self and the world around you. We are dedicated to:
- Crafting genuine, radiant happiness through every wave and shared moment
- Providing a safe, nurturing, healing space where every guest feels truly seen, valued, and at ease
- Sparking profound connections with nature via immersive ocean experiences that restore balance and wonder
- Harnessing the sea’s timeless power for deep relaxation, emotional renewal, and inner peace
- Serving creative, nourishing cuisine—crafted live in a peaceful sailing setting—that nourishes body and soul alike
Our Offering
From the elegant 37-foot monohull Prima Stella—our beautifully refitted signature private sailing yacht—to our collection of catamarans ranging from 42-60 feet, we curate a fleet that delivers bespoke adventures for every mood and group size. Drift into intimate morning resets, bask in golden afternoon escapes, savor iconic sunset sails, or surrender to serene moonlight voyages across Santa Monica Bay. For bolder journeys, join group expeditions to Catalina Island—merging thrilling wildlife encounters, island discovery, and unparalleled ocean harmony.
We deliver:
- Fully private, professionally crewed charters led by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini—guaranteeing personalized, ultra-safe, and effortless experiences every time
- Elevated gourmet dining onboard: casual passed hors d’oeuvres for lighter sails or spectacular live-prepared 5-course fine dining—crafted right in front of you with creative, Mediterranean-inspired flavors using fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Premium yacht options right in Marina del Rey: Ideal for couples or small groups (up to 6 on Prima Stella) seeking intimate therapy on the water, or larger gatherings (up to 12+ on the catamarans) craving shared adventure—all with expert crewing, premium amenities, and that signature Old Plank touch
Whether you’re craving a therapeutic pause amid the waves, a romantic sunset feast under the stars (illuminated by full-spectrum Lumitec underwater lighting that draws in curious marine life), or an exhilarating island quest, every charter is crafted to spark profound relaxation, genuine joy, and memories that echo long after you return to shore.
FActs
sERVICES
Private Sailing Charters
Craving a truly transformative escape? Step aboard our elegant 37-foot monohull Prima Stella—a refitted luxury-designed sailing yacht—and let the Pacific’s gentle rhythms melt away the world. This is your private sanctuary for profound relaxation, up-close wildlife encounters, and gourmet indulgence crafted live by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini.
Perfect for:
- Couples or small groups (up to 6 guests)—ideal for intimate therapeutic sails, romantic getaways, or cherished family moments
- Daily departures—choose morning resets to greet the sunrise, golden afternoon drifts, iconic sunset sails, or serene moonlight voyages under the stars
- Professional expertise—skippered by USCG-licensed Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini, ensuring safe, seamless, and personalized adventures every time
- Enhanced magic—glide with playful dolphins and sea lions, savor gourmet hors d’oeuvres (or upgrade to full onboard dining), and enjoy the mesmerizing glow of full-spectrum Lumitec underwater lighting on evening sails
For larger groups (up to 12 guests), inquire about one of our luxury catamarans from our collection best suited for bareboat charter—perfect for shared celebrations, Catalina expeditions, or bigger ocean adventures with the same Old Plank signature touch.
Seadoo PWC Excursions
Crave an adrenaline-fueled rush on the open Pacific? Launch on our luxury Sea-Doo personal watercraft—the pinnacle of high-performance PWCs—and carve through the waves with exhilarating speed, salty spray in your face, and Southern California’s vibrant marine life just feet away. Guided by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini, these adventures blend heart-pounding excitement with intimate ocean encounters: playful dolphins racing alongside, curious sea lions basking, pelicans soaring overhead, and potential whale sightings. Perfect for thrill-seekers, beginners to experts, solo riders, or duos seeking a fast-paced escape that still captures the healing rhythm of the sea.
Highlights include:
- Guided coastal tours led personally by Captain Mancini—safe, expert navigation along the stunning Southern California shoreline
- Breathtaking views sweeping from Santa Monica Bay to iconic Malibu shores and dramatic Palos Verdes cliffs
- Customizable escapes—choose half-day thrills (like Paradise Please to Malibu’s hidden coves), wildlife-focused rides (Wildlife Seascape), or full-day island quests (Island Seascape to Catalina’s Avalon or Two Harbors)
- Adventure extras—high-speed cruising, anchoring for beach breaks/swims, close-up marine wildlife interactions, and the freedom to explore farther than a standard sail
- Beginner-friendly to expert-level—tailored rides that ignite your spirit, with professional guidance every moment
The Captain's Table
Indulge in an unforgettable gourmet escape aboard Prima Stella—where elegant white tablecloth service transforms your sail into a floating fine-dining experience.
Savor a special outdoor meal under the glowing lights of Burton Chace Park in Marina del Rey, or anchored beside the serene, star-kissed shores of Santa Catalina Island. Led personally by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini, this is five-star yacht dining at its most intimate: creative fusion cuisine unfolding live before your eyes, blending bold flavors with the soothing rhythm of the sea.
Highlights include:
- Masterful leadership by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini—a true maestro of fine-dining, delivering personalized, live-prepared spectacles that elevate every bite
- Creative fusion cuisine inspired by his deep Italian roots—hand-rolled pastas and pastries echoing his grandmother’s cherished homemade recipes
- Culinary influences drawn from a storied career in Mediterranean elegance and Asian sophistication—resulting in innovative, nourishing dishes that harmonize land and sea
- Exquisite five-star service in a breathtaking setting—perfect for romantic evenings, milestone celebrations, or profound therapeutic pauses, paired with premium wines and the yacht’s signature ambiance (enhanced by full-spectrum Lumitec underwater lighting on twilight sails)
ISLAND OVERNIGHT YACHTING ADVENTURES
Escape to the wild, untouched beauty of California’s Channel Islands—starting with iconic Santa Catalina, just 37 nautical miles from our Marina del Rey home port. Set sail into pristine wilderness where the ocean’s timeless rhythms meet rugged landscapes, creating the perfect canvas for adventure, discovery, and profound renewal. Whether by elegant sail or high-speed thrill, these multi-day journeys blend exhilarating activities, gourmet indulgence, and deep connection with nature—crafted to spark joy and forge memories that last a lifetime.
Choose your path:
- Multi-day catamaran escapes aboard one of our luxury catamarans from the collection (sleeping 6-8 guests comfortably)—book a customizable 2-4+ day Catalina adventure with Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini (or professional crew) at the helm, a dedicated private chef for onboard five-star dining (fresh catches turned into creative meals), and an island tour guide for seamless exploration. Enjoy spacious cabins, stable comfort at anchor, and room for the whole group to relax in style
- Thrilling activities in paradise—fish for the day’s catch, snorkel vibrant reefs, harvest lobster, kayak hidden coves, mountain bike scenic trails, join eco jeep tours, or hike untouched paths—all amid playful dolphins, sea lions, and potential whale sightings
- Speed & freedom alternative—opt for luxury Sea-Doo (PWC) excursions for single-day epics (like full-day Island Seascape to Avalon or Two Harbors) or multi-day island-hopping adventures, complete with highspeed ocean runs, beach breaks, and wildlife close-ups
- All-inclusive magic—professional crewing (or bareboat flexibility), gourmet provisions, mooring/docking support, and that signature Old
Plank touch of serenity and excitement, turning every moment into genuine happiness and ocean harmony
These aren’t just trips—they’re transformative California escapes that awaken your sense of wonder. Inquire today for custom itineraries, exact vessel details (including sleeping layouts for 6-8), availability, and pricing. Ready to chart your island odyssey on a spacious catamaran?
Hoist the Movie Skipper
Turn your birthday, anniversary, date night, or special celebration into an unforgettable cinematic escape on the water. Start with a breathtaking longer sail aboard Prima Stella, then dock in the scenic main channel for the grand finale: We hoist the mainsail to create a massive, natural IMAX-style screen projecting your favorite movie, documentary, TV series, or even a custom playlist—surrounded by the glowing lights of Burton Chace Park and enhanced by full-spectrum Lumitec underwater lighting for mesmerizing ambiance.
This magical add-on blends sailing serenity, gourmet touches, and pure wonder:
- Epic open-air movie night—relax on the bow, helm, or deck with blankets, cushions, and the gentle Pacific breeze as your chosen film plays against the stars and sail backdrop
- Perfect for intimate occasions—ideal for couples (romantic snuggles under the night sky), birthdays (surprise screenings with cake/wine pairings), or small groups (up to 6 guests), creating shared, lasting memories
- Seamless integration—this can be added to any 3+ hour sailing adventure (e.g., extended afternoon, sunset, or moonlight sails); 2.5- hour total experience with professional crewing by Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini
- Elevated extras—pair with onboard gourmet hors d’oeuvres, wine, or upgrade to full five-star dining for the ultimate floating theater vibe
- Pricing & details—$250 venue fee (plus 9.5% CA tax and any LA County docking fees); bring your own streaming device or select from our library —custom requests welcome
This isn’t just a movie night—it’s a one-of-a-kind Old Plank experience where the ocean’s rhythms, gourmet indulgence, and cinematic magic converge to spark genuine joy and connection. Inquire today to book your personalized screening and make it legendary!
The Lobster Heist on the Captain's Dinghy
Embark on a thrilling, pirate-inspired nocturnal adventure with Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini aboard his trusty dinghy, the Unsinkable IV. Right after sunset, we slip out of Marina del Rey into the calm, starlit waters of Santa Monica Bay—
heading to exclusive, captain-known lobster hotspots for a hands-on harvest under the moonlight. This seasonal gem (October–March) combines serene night sailing, the excitement of the catch, and the satisfaction of bringing home your own wild Pacific bounty—perfect for adventurous dates, group outings, or anyone
craving a genuine ocean connection.
What makes it unforgettable:
- Serene post-sunset departure—glide across tranquil waters under a canopy of stars and moonlight, with the gentle Pacific breeze and distant city glow creating pure relaxation
- Expert-guided trapping—learn from the Captain himself how to bait, drop, and retrieve traps like a pro—immersive, educational, and full of anticipation
- Prime nocturnal harvest—target California spiny lobsters (in season), Dungeness crabs, and soft-shell crabs—often with bonus wildlife sightings like playful seals or glowing bioluminescence
- Take-home treasures—keep whatever you legally catch (subject to CA recreational limits: up to 7 lobsters/person, 3¼” minimum size; report card required) for a fresh, chef-worthy feast
- Intimate & fun—small-group experience (ideal for 1–4 guests) that’s hands-on, rewarding, and infused with Old Plank’s signature joy and ocean harmony
(October – March)
Seasonal
Yacht Delivery
Need your vessel relocated safely and efficiently? Rely on Captain & Chef Matthew Mancini—a highly experienced USCG-licensed master mariner with a proven track record delivering yachts across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Mediterranean coastlines—and our dedicated Old Plank crew. We handle contracted yacht deliveries with precision, professionalism, and the same care that
defines our luxury charters: from short coastal runs to long offshore passages, ensuring your boat arrives in perfect condition.
We deliver:
- World-class expertise — Captain Mancini’s exceptional seamanship and navigation skills for any sailing need, backed by years of global deliveries and ocean mastery
- Comprehensive services — specialized in vessel delivery, professional consulting, and full-spectrum yacht support alongside our signature charters
- Meticulous attention to detail — expert handling at every stage, from planning routes and weather windows to secure handovers, minimizing risk and maximizing efficiency
- Reliable Old Plank team support — trusted, responsive partnership that treats your yacht like our own, with full transparency and peace of mind
Contracted Yacht Deliveries - Priced at competitive daily/hourly rates (excludes fuel, additional crew if required, provisions, and any port fees)
- Fully customized to your itinerary, timeline, and requirements
Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation—let’s discuss your delivery needs and get your yacht moving safely and confidently. Consult Now
Corporate Housing
Tired of impersonal hotel rooms during extended business stays in Marina del Rey? Elevate your corporate travel with our luxury corporate housing—private, fully furnished condos that blend seamless hotel-like comfort with authentic urbancoastal living. Perfect for executives, relocating professionals, project teams, or
anyone seeking a productive, restorative home base near the water—steps from world-class sailing, dining, and the Pacific’s calming rhythms.
Why choose Old Plank Corporate Housing:
- Ideal balance of luxury and convenience—spacious, modern condos with high-end amenities (full kitchens, workspaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, laundry) for effortless work-life harmony
- Tailored for business needs—designed with professionals in mind: ergonomic setups, quiet environments, flexible lease terms (weekly/ monthly), and prime Marina del Rey location for easy access to LAX, downtown LA, and beachside inspiration
- Elevated comfort & style—enjoy resort-level finishes, ocean views (select units), concierge-level support, and the option to pair your stay with our signature therapeutic sailing experiences for ultimate recharge
- Full details & availability—explore photos, floor plans, amenities, and booking in the Works section under Corporate Housing
Don’t settle for ordinary—unlock comfort, productivity, and a touch of coastal magic. Contact us directly or visit the Corporate Housing section in Works to secure your stay today. Perfect for blending business with the restorative power of the sea.
Works
team
Matthew Mancini
CEO / Captain / Chef
USCG 100 Tons Master Captain / Professional Sailing endorsement +1 818.644.0081 Oldplank@captainmancini.com
Andi
COO / Skipper / Clean up Crew
United States Service Dog Registry +1 818.644.0081 Oldplank@captainmancini.com
Seeking Employment?
Think you are a water loving seaman or sealady? Join our team by clicking on the "employment" page and send us your resume. Your mug shot could be here soon! Please submit cover letters and resumes to the email below. +1 818.644.0081 Oldplank@captainmancini.com
EMBRACE THE OCEAN BREEZE / RELISH IN EXQUISITE CREATIVE DELIGHTS
Step away from the ordinary and dive into an unforgettable luxury sailing adventure. With breathtaking sunsets and five-star cuisine prepared on board, you are invited to unwind, reconnect with nature, and fully experience the captivating rhythm of the sea.
Pricing
Chose Your Journey Plan
THERAPY SAIL
PRIVATE SAILING ADVENTURES
(2 hours 1/4 day, 3 hours 1/4 + day, 4 hours 1/2 day)
HOURLY RATES
2-HOUR MINIMUM TO SANTA MONICA AND MALIBU
- 2 HOUR RATES
-
$350 1-2 Persons
$400 3-6 Persons
- 3 HOUR RATES
-
$450 1-2 Persons
$600 3-6 Persons
- 4 HOUR
-
$600 1-2 Persons
$800 3-6 Persons
FOR LARGE PARTY ACCOMMODATIONS UP TO 12 PLEASE REACH OUT TO US VIA OUR CONTACT PAGE
Slot times depends on time of year to best fit all sails into a full day.
End of March-November
(3-4 slots daily)
End of November -Beginning of March
(2 slots daily)
SEAFOOD MARKET EXPEDITION
PRIVATE SAILING ADVENTURE
(FULL DAY 8 Hours)
Private sailing adventures from Marina del Rey to Kings Harbor Marina
- 10 AM -6 PM Early Day
- 12:30-8:30 PM Late Day
Time Slot Can Change Due to Daylight Savings Hour.
2-2.5 hour lunch at Quality Seafood Market (price excludes what you spend at the market)
- 8 HOURs Duration
- $1200 1-2 Persons
- $1600 3-6 Persons
Slot times depends on time of year, and dock availability
Price Excludes CA State Tax 9.5% and Los Angeles County Group Docking Fee.
HOIST THE MOVIE SKIPPER
EPIC IMAX MOVIE NIGHT
After our sunset sail we will dock and hoist the main to project any movie, documentary, or TV show.
Beautiful scenic main channel view w/ full spectrum underwater lighting to add to our incredible ambience!
Can be added on to any full price sunset sailing adventure
- $250 venue fee
-
2.5 hour duration
Up to 6 Guests
Excludes 9.5% CA tax and Los Angeles County Group docking fee
ISLAND SEASCAPE
GUIDED SEADOO (PWC) ADVENTURES FROM MARINA DEL REY TO SANTA AVALON OR TWO HARBORS ON SANTA CATALINA ISLANDS
THE MOST EPIC FUN YOU WILL EVER HAVE IN YOUR LIFE!
- FULL DAY SUNRISE TO SUNSET
- $1,800 1-2 PERSONS
Prices Includes 9.5% CA State Tax, Fuel Cost, Landing / Docking Fees to Mooring Balls and Shore Boat Fees Back and Forth from Island to Mooring Balls.
YACHT DELIVERIES
CONTRACTED YACHT DELIVERIES
Need a captain to deliver your yacht for you?
- Daily/Hourly Rates
Does not include fuel, crew and any provisions needed
WILDLIFE SEASCAPE
GUIDED SEADOO (PWC) ADVENTURES FROM MARINA DEL REY TO SANTA MONICA OR MALIBU.
- 2 HOUR (SANTA MONICA)
- $450 1-2 PERSONS
- 3 HOUR (MALIBU)
- $617 1-2 PERSONS
Prices Do Not Include 9.5% CA State Tax and Small Fuel Cost
PARADISE PLEASE
GUIDED SEADOO (PWC) ADVENTURES FROM MARINA DEL REY TO PARADISE COVE IN MALIBU AND BACK
THE MOST FUN YOU CAN LEGALLY HAVE ON THE WATER!!!!!!
- 1/2 DAY EXPEDITION
- $700 1-2 PERSONS
Prices Do Not Include 9.5% CA State Tax and Small Fuel Cost
Captain's Lobster Heist
GUIDED LOBSTER CATCHING ADVENTURE
Straight to the source, wild caught Santa Monica Bay Pacific Lobster, Dungeness and Soft Shell Crab.
Incudes All Traps, Bait, Live Tank, and Fuel.
- 3 HOUR RATES
- $350 1-4 PERSONS
Testimonials
What our clients say
I took my daughters sailing with Old Plank, donning a proper Tilley hat to add a touch of disguise. However, the captain’s intuition was impeccable. We embraced and shared a meaningful conversation. Captain Mancini is a genuine human and, if I may state the obvious, an equally interesting man.
Sailing under the moonlight with a glass of champagne in hand—what could be better? The attention to detail, the luxurious yacht, and the fresh seafood made this experience unforgettable. We saw dolphins swimming alongside us, and the crew was beyond accommodating. Can't wait to book again!
I’ve been on many yacht charters, but Old Plank Sailing Adventures truly stands out. The gourmet dining experience was simply exquisite. The freshly prepared seafood and wine pairings were perfect. You can tell that Captain Mancini’s passion for food and sailing shines through in every detail.
My assistant surprised me with a sailing adventure for my birthday. From the moment we stepped onto the yacht, it was clear we were in for an exceptional experience. I went googly eyes. I love this Captain. He’s mine.
need something
Frequently asked questions
How do I converse with a certified breathing human from this company?
We have one dedicated service human available for expedited service. To reach our sole employee, text me directly at +1 818.644.0081.
Captain Mancini is also reachable by phone; however, keep in mind that he spends part of each month at his coffee farm in Colombia. The high altitudes of the haciendas can make phone conversations challenging, and roaming charges may apply. To ensure you receive five-star customer service, we strongly recommend communicating via text. This allows him to address your needs efficiently and effectively.
What should I not wear?
I love a woman in stilettos, but not when my vessel is heeled over while sailing. It gives me anxiety, and my insurance policy doesn’t cover stiletto damage. Not to mention, they are not the best swimming shoes. So, please leave your stilettos, high heels, low heels, mid heels, and wedges at home. Instead, wear comfortable shoes like flip-flops, sneakers, boat shoes, etc. Gentlemen, please do not wear dress shoes or shoes with wooden bottoms or slippery surfaces. (Update: Roller skates or shoes with fold-out wheels and remote controls are not considered shoes, despite the fact that they go on your feet.) (Final update: We’ll leave ALL shoes in the dockside basket unless you have a prosthetic foot.) Please bring or wear a warm pair of socks to use onboard the yacht, as all shoes will be left in the dockside basket. (Note: November to April is whale season with cooler temperatures, so please dress warmly in layers. Ensure these layers are not restricting, so you can function properly or catch a glimpse of dolphins or a breaching whale without being stuck staring at the sky like little Ralphie Parker from “A Christmas Story.” I recommend gloves instead of mittens so you can quickly grasp the lifelines and running rigging while moving around the yacht. If you are unsure about the difference between gloves and mittens, please inquire with your Alexa.
How do I know if I have successfully completed a reservation?
BOOKING VIA WEBSITE: If you booked via the website you are submitting a request for sail. Once the sail is accepted by Captain Mancini he will follow up with you with a Docusign for a charter agreement to the email you provided, Once this agreement is signed you will receive a conformational text with all your booking details to the number you provided in the booking request. BOOKING VIA TEXT: For those who booked via text message, once payment is received you will receive a Docusign charter agreement sent to the email you proved via text. Once the Docusign is completed you will receive a conformational text with all the information for your upcoming sail, including time, date, tax information, what to bring, and parking details!
What modes of payment do we accept?
For the Fastest Checkout, click the Book Now button and check out with Apple Pay. We also accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Amex, and Mobile Apps, including Venmo, Cash App, WeChat, Paypal, and Certified Organic Chickens.
Cancellation Policy?
All bookings are final. Do not book unless you are completely sure you will be able to make your adventure. Adventures can be reschedule to another date up to 24 hours after booking unless it is booked with less than 24 hours notice. Captain has the right to reschedule any adventures that may endanger guests in weather conditions that are deemed unsafe for the client. These conditions includes, rain, small craft advisories, gale warnings, hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, etc. In the case of a cancelled adventure we will reschedule for our next availabilities or you will be issued a gift certificate for a later date.
How do I book?
To book your adventure quickly, click the “Book Now” button, select the adventure you want, and choose an available time slot on the calendar. Complete your checkout using Apple Pay or manually entering your credit card information. For expedited service, please text me at +1 818.644.0081. Include your first and last name, the adventure type you want, your requested date, and your cell phone number. I will respond promptly with available time slots—so don’t wait!