Cruise & Booze Brewery tours

Explore San Diego’s Craft Beer Scene in a Vintage VW Vanagon

The Cruise & Booze Brewery Tours in San Diego offers a lively and personalized way to experience the city’s renowned North Coast craft breweries. Priced at $149 per person, this 4.5-hour guided tour is ideal for those eager to sample local brews while enjoying a nostalgic ride in a retro VW Vanagon. With limited to just six guests, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, perfect for beer enthusiasts who appreciate a relaxed pace and in-depth brewery visits.

This tour departs from San Diego with pickup service, making it easy to start your craft beer adventure without logistical stress. The tour’s key feature is visiting three prominent breweries, where you can indulge in beer tastings, snacks, and water. A notable highlight is the chance to learn about the brewing process directly from brewery owners and staff, adding an educational touch to the experience. While the $149 price includes the transportation and select tastings, guests are responsible for any additional beers or food at each stop.

What Makes the Cruise & Booze Brewery Tour Stand Out

The small-group size, capped at six participants, ensures a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and interactions. Traveling in a vintage VW Vanagon adds a fun, nostalgic element that sets this tour apart from typical brewery visits. The included transportation, along with snacks and drinks, keeps the focus on relaxation and enjoyment rather than logistics.

Another appealing feature is the full brewery tour at Jacked Up Brewery, hosted by owner Michael, who provides insights into the brewing process and personally guides guests through the facility. The flight of beers offered here is on the house, giving guests a chance to sample a variety of styles, with the option to purchase additional tastings if desired. The tour also begins with a complimentary beer, setting a friendly, welcoming tone from the start.

The Itinerary: Three Unique Brewery Stops

The tour kicks off at Wild Barrel Brewing, where guests can choose to sit inside or outside at the bar. The staff takes care of beer orders, and the driver checks in with the group for photos and casual chats. The emphasis here is on a relaxed, social atmosphere, with ample time to sample the beers and enjoy the ambiance.

Next, the group heads to WestBrew Vista. Upon arrival, guests can again opt for indoor or outdoor seating, with the added fun of playing pool if they wish. The brewery tour at WestBrew includes a look at the brewing equipment and the cold storage room, providing a behind-the-scenes look at beer production that enthusiasts will find engaging.

The final stop is Jacked Up Brewery, where owner Michael offers an inside look at his brewing operation. Guests are seated to music playing as they enjoy a beer flight, included in the tour. This stop is particularly notable for the personal interaction with the owner and the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of beers, with the option to purchase extra tastings.

Transportation in a Retro VW Vanagon

Traveling in a vintage VW Vanagon adds a layer of charm and nostalgia to the tour. The public transportation is replaced by a private, comfortable vehicle, which enhances the overall experience. The driver, who is also your guide, ensures smooth transitions between breweries and provides commentary along the way.

The pickup service simplifies logistics, and the small group size makes for a cozy, social environment. As the Vanagon navigates through San Diego’s scenic routes, guests can enjoy snacks and water provided throughout the day, maintaining hydration and energy levels while sampling craft beers.

Included and Extra Costs

The tour price of $149 covers private transportation, a complimentary beer at the start, snacks, and water. The beer tastings at the breweries are not included in the price, so guests should plan to pay separately for additional samples or food at each location. This setup allows for flexibility and the choice to indulge more at favorite breweries.

Since the Jacked Up Brewery visit includes a full brewery tour and a flight of beers, guests can expect a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at beer-making. The additional beers, beyond the included flight, are pay-as-you-go, giving guests control over how much they wish to sample.

Logistical Details and Booking

The tour is available daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with confirmation received instantly upon booking. It is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. The maximum group size of six helps maintain a personalized and relaxed pace.

Booking in advance is recommended, with an average reservation time of about 25 days ahead. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility in case of changing plans. Weather conditions can affect the tour, but if canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered a full refund or rescheduling.

What Reviewers Say About This Tour

While the overall rating stands at 3.7 out of 5 based on six reviews, the most praised aspect is the guide’s friendliness and accommodating attitude. One reviewer specifically mentions how fun and engaging the guide was, making the experience memorable. The personalized service and small-group environment are frequently highlighted as major advantages.

The tour’s pace and casual atmosphere are appreciated, especially the unhurried visits at each brewery. Guests particularly enjoy the full brewery tour at Jacked Up, with the owner’s insights adding depth to the experience. The inclusive beer flight and snacks contribute to a relaxed and enjoyable outing.

Final Thoughts: Worth Considering for Beer Lovers

The Cruise & Booze Brewery Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to explore San Diego’s craft brewery scene. The combination of vintage transportation, personalized visits, and tastings makes it appealing to those who prefer a small-group, behind-the-scenes experience.

However, the $149 price does not include the additional beers at the breweries, so be prepared for extra costs if you want to sample more. The limited group size and guided tour style ensure a friendly environment, perfect for casual beer enthusiasts or groups seeking a leisurely day out.

This tour suits adults interested in craft beer, nostalgic travelers, and small groups who value personal attention and local insights. For those looking for a fun, relaxed brewery experience with a retro twist, this tour can be a memorable way to spend part of your day in San Diego.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age to participate in this brewery tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves alcoholic beverages, so it is intended for adults of legal drinking age.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, the beer tastings at breweries are not included in the price and are paid for separately. The tour includes a flight at Jacked Up Brewery and a complimentary beer at the start.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, if canceled due to poor weather, guests will be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?
This detail is not specified; it’s recommended to inquire directly with the supplier for accessibility options.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 25 days in advance is typical, but last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability.