The Channel Islands, located just off the coast of Santa Barbara and Ventura, are a National Park dream-come-true for marine nature lovers. Each natural wonder encounter with the caves, tunnels, arches, grottos, and blow holes is a unique blend of sights and sounds created by submarine fissures and openings, and the contorted volcanic island formations. Marine mammals such as dolphins, whales, seals, and sea lions abound. And for many species of sea birds, the pristine habitat offers a rare respite from human development. On Santa Cruz Island, historic ranch buildings and collections of Chumash Indian artifacts provide a window into California's past.
A fun introductory kayaking lesson is included in all trips. Ocean kayaks are specially designed for superior stability, unlike river kayaks which are narrow and tippy so they can be righted easily -- kayaking knowledge and special athletic ability are not required! And the sheltered paddling areas very often are without surf or strong winds.
Multiple departure dates are added throughout the season. Cross channel passage is by power boat. From April through November trips are scheduled for every weekend, and many weekdays. From December through March trips are scheduled upon demand: whenever you or we put together a 4-person minimum.
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - We gather in Ventura Harbor at the charter boat concessionaire at 7:15 AM. This allows for 45 minutes of gear handling and paperwork. The boat leaves the harbor at 8:00 AM. While crossing the channel we always see at least some representatives from at least one of these groups: sea lions, seals, dolphins, or whales (though most likely during migratory seasons.) Some whale species reside in the channel all year round. A naturalist accompanies the boat trip and delivers a running commentary on the wildlife that is encountered.
As we approach the island we make a determination as to the next best course of action based upon the particular charter vessel being used and the sea and weather conditions. On some days we may opt to take the gear and food onshore. There is usually very little surf at the landing site -- a one foot shore break is normal. We may elect to eat lunch either before or after paddling, depending on the wishes of the group. On some days we will grab some snacks to take with us and board the kayaks directly from the charter vessel. A basic kayaking lesson and safety talk precede our launch. We explore the widely varying sea caves and rock gardens as we paddle alongside the towering cliffs. When we return, we set up camp and go for a leisurely hike to watch the sunset over the sea from the clifftops.
Day 2 - In the morning we arise as early as is comfortable for the group. We eat our breakfasts and make lunches which are sealed into ziplock freezer bags, and break camp. In this manner we can take our kayaks to the more distant sea caves, including one which has three huge openings. Eventually we land at a secluded beach to eat lunch, swim and snorkel, explore the cove, or just relax in the sun. Eventually we make our way back to the landing area and onto the charter vessel, and make our mainland landing around 6:00 PM.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
All passage and kayak equipment fees are included in trip pricing.
Also see tour packages in:
USA
California
Outdoor: Water Drifter
Canoeing/Kayaking/Rafting
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