The Channel Islands, located just off the coast of Santa Barbara and Ventura, are a National Park dream-come-true for marine nature lovers. The crystal clear Pacific channel waters, many mysterious and eerie sea caves, breathtaking cliffs, abundant wildlife, and mild weather combine to lure expert kayakers and novices alike to explore these natural wonders. Each 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. Bring your lunch and beverages. 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 (one day):
We gather in Ventura, Santa Barbara, or Oxnard Harbor at around 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 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 we encounter and offers historical narratives on the islands and the Chumash natives that once inhabited them.
As we approach the island we determine the best course of action based upon the particular charter vessel being used and the sea and weather conditions. Most days, we elect to take both gear and lunch onshore. On other days, we take some snacks along with us, board the kayaks directly from the charter vessel and save lunch for later. There is usually very little surf at the landing site — a one foot break is normal. After a brief introductory orientation, we explore the widely varying sea caves and rock gardens as we paddle alongside towering cliffs. The contour of the islands' rocky shores exposes an array of intricate passageways where we'll find an abundance of wildlife. During certain tides, numerous "blow holes" spray us with a welcome mist of cool water. After an extraordinary day filled with exploration, we return to our anchorage and prepare to depart for the mainland. Normal return time is between 5:00 and 6:00 PM depending upon the wind, seas, and the time spent visiting with any marine life we come across.
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
Canoeing/Kayaking/Rafting
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