How to Use AquaBus in Long Beach

The AquaBus is a vital component of Long Beach’s sustainable transportation network, offering residents, tourists, and commuters a scenic, efficient, and eco-friendly way to travel along the city’s waterfront. Designed to connect key destinations—from the Long Beach Convention Center to the Queen Mary, from Shoreline Village to the Aquarium of the Pacific—the AquaBus provides a unique alternative to car travel, reducing congestion and emissions while enhancing the visitor experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor exploring the harbor or a local resident seeking a relaxing commute, understanding how to use the AquaBus effectively can transform your time in Long Beach. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know to navigate the AquaBus system with confidence, including real-world tips, best practices, essential tools, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Using the AquaBus in Long Beach is straightforward, but preparation ensures a seamless experience. Follow these detailed steps to ride the AquaBus from start to finish.

Step 1: Understand the AquaBus Route and Stops

The AquaBus operates on a fixed loop route that connects seven major waterfront destinations. The stops are strategically located to serve high-traffic areas and tourist attractions. The full route includes:

• Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center
• Shoreline Village
• Queen Mary
• Harbor Transit Center
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Bluff Park (near the Long Beach Museum of Art)
• Long Beach Cruise Terminal

Each stop is clearly marked with AquaBus signage, often featuring the distinctive blue-and-white boat icon. The route is circular, meaning buses travel in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. You can board at any stop and ride the full loop or exit at any destination. The entire route takes approximately 45 minutes to complete under normal conditions.

Step 2: Check the Schedule

AquaBus operates on a fixed timetable, with service varying by season and day of the week. During peak season (May through September), boats run every 20 to 30 minutes from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. In the off-season (October through April), service is reduced to every 45 minutes, typically from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. On holidays and special event days, schedules may be adjusted.

To ensure accuracy, always verify the current schedule before your trip. The most reliable source is the official AquaBus website, which updates in real time for weather delays, maintenance, or special events. Avoid relying solely on third-party apps, as they may not reflect last-minute changes.

Step 3: Purchase Your Ticket

AquaBus fares are cashless and require pre-purchase. You have several options:

• Online: Visit the official AquaBus website and select your date and number of tickets. Payment is processed securely via credit or debit card. You’ll receive a digital ticket via email, which can be scanned directly from your smartphone.
• At Ticket Kiosks: Located at the Long Beach Convention Center, Shoreline Village, and the Aquarium of the Pacific. These self-service kiosks accept credit cards and contactless payments. They are staffed during operating hours and offer printed tickets upon request.
• Onboard: Cash payments are not accepted on the boat. However, you may purchase tickets using a contactless card or mobile wallet directly from the onboard ticketing device. This option is subject to availability and may incur a small service fee.

Single-ride tickets cost $8 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+), $4 for children (3–12), and are free for children under 3. A day pass, valid for unlimited rides on the day of purchase, costs $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and children. Multi-day passes and group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more.

Step 4: Arrive at Your Boarding Stop

Arrive at least 5 to 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time. AquaBus boats dock at designated piers with clear signage. Look for the blue canopy and AquaBus logo. Wait in the designated boarding area, which is often shaded and equipped with seating. Do not stand near the water’s edge or block the boarding ramp.

During busy periods, especially weekends and holidays, lines may form. Be patient and follow the flow of foot traffic. Staff members are often present to assist with directions and ticket verification.

Step 5: Board the AquaBus

When the boat arrives, passengers board in order of arrival. Have your digital or printed ticket ready for scanning. A crew member will verify your ticket using a handheld device. No physical stamping or tearing is required.

Once onboard, find a seat. The boat has both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Outdoor seating offers panoramic views of the harbor and is ideal for photography. Indoor seating is climate-controlled and recommended during hot or rainy weather. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome and can be secured in designated areas near the front or rear of the vessel.

Step 6: Ride and Enjoy

During your ride, audio narration is available via onboard speakers and through a downloadable app (see Tools and Resources). The narration highlights landmarks, historical facts, and points of interest along the route. You can also use this time to take photos, relax, or enjoy the breeze.

Do not lean over railings, stand near the bow during motion, or bring open containers of alcohol. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted, but littering is strictly prohibited. Please dispose of trash in the bins provided.

Step 7: Disembark at Your Destination

As your stop approaches, the crew will announce it over the intercom. Prepare to exit by gathering your belongings and moving toward the exit doors. The boat will dock for approximately 3 to 5 minutes at each stop to allow for boarding and exiting.

Exit the boat in an orderly manner. Do not rush. If you’re unsure of your stop, ask a crew member for confirmation. Once off the boat, follow signs to your destination—whether it’s the Queen Mary’s entrance, the Aquarium’s ticket booth, or Shoreline Village’s shops.

Step 8: Transfer or Continue Your Journey

If you plan to continue riding the AquaBus, simply wait for the next departure. Your ticket is valid for the entire day if you purchased a day pass. If you’re switching to another mode of transportation, nearby bike racks, Metro Bus stops, and parking lots are clearly marked at each terminal.

For those connecting to the Long Beach Transit system, the Harbor Transit Center serves as the primary hub. Here, you can access Metro Bus lines 1, 2, 10, 40, and 111, which connect to Downtown Long Beach, the Metro Blue Line, and the airport.

Best Practices

Maximizing your AquaBus experience requires more than just knowing the schedule—it demands awareness, planning, and respect for the system and environment. These best practices ensure efficiency, safety, and enjoyment for all riders.

Plan Ahead for Peak Times

Weekends, holidays, and special events such as the Long Beach Grand Prix, the Queen Mary’s Halloween Haunt, or the America’s Cup regatta draw large crowds. During these times, wait times can exceed 45 minutes. To avoid long lines:

• Board early in the morning (10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) when crowds are lighter.
• Use the less popular stops like Bluff Park or the Cruise Terminal as boarding points.
• Consider riding in the reverse direction (counter-clockwise) to bypass the busiest boarding zones.

Use the Mobile App for Real-Time Updates

The official AquaBus app (available on iOS and Android) provides live boat tracking, estimated arrival times, and service alerts. It also allows you to purchase tickets, view the full route map, and receive push notifications for weather-related delays or schedule changes. Enable notifications to stay informed while on the go.

Travel Light

Space on the AquaBus is limited. Large suitcases, bulky equipment, or oversized backpacks can obstruct aisles and create safety hazards. If you’re carrying a stroller, fold it before boarding. If you have a large camera bag or tripod, consider placing it on the floor beside your seat, not in the aisle.

Respect the Environment

The AquaBus is part of Long Beach’s commitment to sustainability. To support this mission:

• Use reusable water bottles—there are refill stations at every terminal.
• Do not feed birds or wildlife near the docks.
• Dispose of all trash in designated bins. Recycling containers are available at every stop.

Be Aware of Accessibility Features

All AquaBus vessels are ADA-compliant, featuring ramps, designated seating areas, and audio-visual announcements. If you require assistance, notify a crew member upon boarding. Service animals are welcome. For riders with mobility challenges, the Harbor Transit Center offers complimentary wheelchair-accessible shuttle service to nearby attractions upon request.

Keep Your Ticket Accessible

While digital tickets are convenient, ensure your phone is charged and your ticket is easily accessible. Avoid relying on screenshots—use the official app’s live ticket scanner. If you have a printed ticket, keep it in a waterproof sleeve or envelope to prevent smudging or water damage.

Engage with the Experience

The AquaBus is more than transportation—it’s a cultural and scenic experience. Listen to the narration, take photos from the deck, and learn about Long Beach’s maritime history. Many riders report that the boat ride became the highlight of their visit because they took time to absorb the surroundings.

Tools and Resources

Several digital and physical tools can enhance your AquaBus experience. These resources are curated to help you plan, navigate, and enjoy your ride with greater ease.

Official AquaBus Website

www.aquabuslongbeach.com is your primary source for schedules, fares, maps, and service updates. The site includes:

• Interactive route map with stop locations and estimated travel times
• Real-time boat tracking via live map
• Seasonal schedule changes and holiday alerts
• Group booking portal for schools, tour operators, and corporate events

AquaBus Mobile App

Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, the AquaBus app offers:

• Live GPS tracking of all boats
• One-touch ticket purchase and storage
• Push notifications for delays or route changes
• Audio tour content downloadable for offline use
• Multi-language support (English, Spanish, Mandarin, and French)

Google Maps Integration

Google Maps now includes AquaBus as a public transit option. When planning a route in Long Beach, select “Transit” and search for “AquaBus.” The app will display departure times, walking directions to the nearest stop, and estimated arrival times. Note that Google Maps may not reflect real-time delays, so cross-reference with the official app for accuracy.

Local Tourism Apps and Guides

Long Beach’s official tourism portal, longbeach.gov/tourism, features curated itineraries that include AquaBus stops. Popular guides include:

• “Harbor Highlights Tour”: A 6-hour itinerary combining AquaBus rides with walking tours of the Aquarium, Shoreline Village, and the Queen Mary.
• “Family Fun Day”: Designed for visitors with children, this guide pairs AquaBus rides with kid-friendly attractions and picnic spots.

Printed Maps and Brochures

Free printed AquaBus maps and brochures are available at:

• Long Beach Convention Center Information Desk
• Shoreline Village Guest Services
• Aquarium of the Pacific Gift Shop
• Long Beach Airport Welcome Center

These maps include QR codes linking to the official website and app, making them useful even without a smartphone.

Audio Narration and Historical Content

The AquaBus audio tour, narrated by local historians, covers topics such as:

• The history of the Long Beach harbor and its role in World War II
• The development of the Queen Mary and its transformation into a hotel
• The ecological restoration of the Los Angeles River estuary
• Native Tongva cultural sites along the shoreline

Download the audio tour via the app or scan QR codes at each stop for a self-guided experience.

Real Examples

Real-world scenarios illustrate how different types of travelers successfully use the AquaBus. These examples highlight practical applications and common pitfalls to avoid.

Example 1: Family Visit with Young Children

The Garcia family from San Diego visited Long Beach for a weekend getaway. They arrived at the Aquarium of the Pacific at 11:30 a.m. and planned to visit the Queen Mary afterward. Instead of driving and searching for parking, they purchased a family day pass ($35) at the Aquarium’s ticket kiosk. They boarded the AquaBus at 12:15 p.m., enjoyed the 20-minute ride with their two young children, and disembarked at the Queen Mary. The boat ride gave the kids a break from walking, and the narration kept them engaged. They returned to the Aquarium via the AquaBus at 4:00 p.m., avoiding the afternoon traffic. The family saved over $25 in parking fees and reduced their carbon footprint.

Example 2: Solo Tourist with Limited Time

Emma, a solo traveler from Canada, had only five hours in Long Beach between flights. She used Google Maps to identify that the AquaBus connected the airport shuttle drop-off point to the Long Beach Cruise Terminal in under 30 minutes. She purchased a single ticket online before leaving the airport. After disembarking at the Cruise Terminal, she walked 10 minutes to the waterfront promenade, took photos of the harbor, and returned to the terminal to catch her AquaBus back to the Harbor Transit Center. From there, she boarded a Metro Bus to the airport. Her entire journey was completed in under 45 minutes, and she avoided the stress of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar streets.

Example 3: Photographer Capturing the Harbor

David, a professional photographer, wanted to capture golden hour shots of the Queen Mary and the skyline. He boarded the AquaBus at Bluff Park at 5:45 p.m., riding counterclockwise to avoid the direct sun. He stood on the outdoor deck with his tripod, capturing panoramic views as the sun set behind the Queen Mary. He disembarked at the Queen Mary at 6:30 p.m., walked along the pier for additional shots, and took the next AquaBus back to Shoreline Village, where he caught the last bus to his hotel. His photos were later featured in a national travel magazine.

Example 4: Corporate Group Tour

A tech company based in Irvine hosted a team-building retreat in Long Beach. They booked a private AquaBus charter for 20 employees via the official website. The boat was decorated with company banners, and a guide provided custom commentary on Long Beach’s innovation economy. The group boarded at the Convention Center, toured the Aquarium, stopped for lunch at Shoreline Village, and ended at the Queen Mary for a cocktail reception. The event received high praise for its unique, eco-conscious approach to corporate travel.

FAQs

Can I bring my pet on the AquaBus?

Only service animals are permitted onboard. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed, except for small pets in secure, enclosed carriers that fit under a seat. This policy is in place to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers.

Is the AquaBus wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All boats are equipped with ramps, wide aisles, and designated seating areas for wheelchairs and mobility devices. Crew members are trained to assist with boarding and disembarking. If you need additional support, notify the ticketing agent when purchasing your ticket.

Do AquaBus tickets expire?

Single-ride tickets are valid for one journey on the day of purchase. Day passes are valid until midnight on the date printed on the ticket. Multi-day and group passes have expiration dates clearly marked on the receipt or digital confirmation.

Can I bring food and drinks on board?

Yes. Non-alcoholic beverages and packaged snacks are permitted. Glass containers and open alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Please clean up after yourself and use the trash bins provided.

What happens if the AquaBus is delayed due to weather?

In the event of high winds, heavy fog, or lightning, service may be temporarily suspended for safety. Updates are posted on the official website and app. If your ride is canceled, you may request a full refund through the ticketing platform where you purchased your ticket.

Are there restrooms on the AquaBus?

Yes, each boat has one ADA-accessible restroom. Due to limited space, it is recommended to use restroom facilities at the terminals before boarding, especially during peak hours.

Can I use my Long Beach Transit pass on the AquaBus?

No. The AquaBus is operated by a separate entity and does not accept Long Beach Transit passes, Metro TAP cards, or other regional transit passes. You must purchase a separate AquaBus ticket.

How do I report lost items on the AquaBus?

If you leave an item onboard, contact the AquaBus operations center via email at info@aquabuslongbeach.com. Include the date, time, boarding stop, and description of the item. Lost items are held for 14 days at the Harbor Transit Center.

Can I rent the AquaBus for a private event?

Yes. The AquaBus offers private charters for weddings, corporate events, and parties. Minimum group size is 15 passengers. Custom routes, catering, and entertainment options are available. Visit the official website for pricing and booking details.

Is the AquaBus operational during rain?

Yes. The AquaBus operates in light to moderate rain. Boats have covered seating areas, and rain ponchos are available for purchase at ticket kiosks. Service is suspended only during severe weather, such as thunderstorms or high winds.

Conclusion

The AquaBus is more than a transit option—it’s an immersive experience that connects you to the heart of Long Beach’s waterfront culture. Whether you’re a tourist seeking a scenic ride, a local commuting to work, or a family looking for a stress-free day out, mastering how to use the AquaBus unlocks a world of convenience, beauty, and sustainability. By following the step-by-step guide, adhering to best practices, leveraging the recommended tools, and learning from real examples, you’ll not only navigate the system with ease but also appreciate the thoughtful design behind it.

Remember: preparation is key. Check the schedule, purchase your ticket in advance, arrive early, and embrace the journey as much as the destination. The AquaBus doesn’t just move you from point A to point B—it moves you through the story of Long Beach, one wave at a time. So next time you’re in the harbor, skip the traffic, board the boat, and let the water carry you through one of California’s most vibrant coastal cities.