Hornblower offers tours of John Wayne's Wild Goose yacht

Come aboard one of the most famous and historical yachts in Newport Beach, the Wild Goose. Hornblower’s legendary yacht, once owned by the Oscar-winning western star John Wayne, is now offering exclusive narrated dockside tours.

“John Wayne remains one of America’s most beloved big-screen stars, and many of his famous films were set on the water,” says Hornblower Cruises & Events CEO Terry MacRae. “This tour gives fans an opportunity to view rare memorabilia and artwork, and it allows us to honor ‘The Duke’ in a unique way.”

The Wild Goose Tour includes a one-hour dockside visit spotlighting the boat’s storied past. Cost for the excursion is $25 per person and available Monday through Friday. Reservations are needed to book these tours and a 10 group minimum is required. Additional rates and times will apply for groups of 30 or more. For larger groups looking for a unique event venue, the Wild Goose is available to accommodate up to 150 guests and Hornblower’s event specialists can customize a program to fit your event needs.

The Wild Goose first sailed in 1943, as the United States Navy Minesweeper YMS 328. Of the 481 minesweepers manufactured, only 4 – including the Wild Goose – remain today. After World War II, Canadian owners purchased the vessel and dubbed her La Beverie (The Beautiful Dream); Seattle lumber tycoon Max Wyman later acquired the boat and renamed her The Wild Goose II. When John Wayne bought the minesweeper a decade later, he dropped the “II” from the title and set about creating a private retreat for family and friends.

To make reservations for the historic Wild Goose Tour, call 949-646-0155 or cruise to our website at www.hornblower.com.

Celebrating 30 years of excellence on the water, Hornblower has 32 charter yachts throughout California in Newport Beach, Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, San Francisco, and San Diego. Hornblower’s popular Newport Beach, Long Beach, and Marina del Rey port offers private charters, Public Weekend Dinner Cruises, Champagne Brunch Cruises, and Summer Sunset Cocktail Cruises. For more information call our Newport Beach/Long Beach office at 949-646-0155 or our Marina del Rey office at 310-301-6000.