Party, but don’t vomit

The rules for the Angela Louise paddle boat New Year’s Eve cruise read like a history of what the crew and captain have no doubt experienced on the trip in the past.

It must be one heck of a party.

While some of things prohibited need not be explained, the fact that the event’s website warns there is a $250 ticket for littering from the harbor patrol, and they charge $100 to anyone who throws up from intoxication, shows that this a boat familiar with a New Year’s Eve party.

“If you’re legitimately sea sick you don’t have to pay. But in my 10 years, nobody has ever gotten sea sick,” said Angela Louise Capt. Rick Garcia with a laugh.

“We do have a good time ... It’s a party cruise for people who want to party.”

On New Year’s Eve while many will be at house parties or at home watching the countdown to 2009 on TV, others will be bobbing in Newport Harbor or along the coast, bringing in the new year at sea.

Garcia claims that battery-electric paddle boat, the Angela Louise, is a perfect place to ring in the new year. It can carry up to 100 guests, has an onboard DJ and full bar, and even New Year’s Eve crowns for the ladies.

Weather permitting, guests will motor to the Corona del Mar coast, where seclusion will likely permit for a more lively affair.

“There is a noise ordinance in Newport for after 10 p.m., but usually on New Year’s Eve, nobody adheres to that,” Garcia said. “Because everyone in Newport is partying that night ... rain or shine, we’ll still go.”

Like other celebrations at sea next week, Garcia suggests you dress to impress, but make sure you dress warm.

Another option for everyone is the Hornblower Cruises and Events New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner.

The four-hour cruise includes a four-course dinner, holiday decorations and party favors and a glass of champaign for midnight. Anyone wishing to celebrate aboard the Hornblower’s Wild Goose yacht can purchase a $160 ticket at hornblower.com or call (888) 467-6256.

Information for the Angela Louise cruise can be found at AngelaLouise.com or by calling (949) 633-5997.

Tickets are $35 through Tuesday and can be bought online. Boarding for either the Hornblower or Angela Louise cruise begins at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.

JOSEPH SERNA may be reached at (714) 966-4619 or at [email protected].