Los Angeles: Semi-Submarine Excursion from Catalina Island Tickets
Los Angeles: Semi-Submarine Excursion from Catalina Island
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Los Angeles Semi-Submarine Excursion from Catalina Island
The Nautilus semi-submarine offers a unique underwater viewing experience off Catalina Island's coast. You'll sit 5-10 feet below the surface in a climate-controlled cabin, watching marine life through large portholes as you cruise through kelp forests and protected waters around Avalon.
During the 45-minute guided excursion, you'll spot bright orange garibaldi fish, kelp bass, sea stars, and sea urchins swimming past your window. The vessel's design keeps you completely dry whilst providing clear views of the rocky ocean floor and swaying kelp forests. Fish food dispensers can be purchased onboard to attract schools of fish right up to your porthole.
Evening departures are available seasonally, giving you the chance to observe nocturnal marine creatures as they emerge at twilight. The professional crew shares insights about Catalina's marine ecosystem throughout the cruise.
What is Included
- 45-minute cruise in the semi-submarine
- Professional crew and guide
- Climate-controlled viewing cabin
- Access to underwater observation portholes
Good to Know
The excursion departs from a dock in Avalon, Catalina Island. You'll need to arrive early to ensure timely boarding. The vessel has bench seating along the windows and is suitable for all ages, making it popular with families. However, wheelchair access is not available.
Bring a camera for underwater photography and consider purchasing fish food onboard to enhance your viewing experience. Ferry transportation to Catalina Island is not included in the excursion price, so you'll need to book your crossing to Avalon separately.
Water visibility varies with weather conditions, with calm days offering the best underwater views. If you're exploring more of the Los Angeles area, consider booking Los Angeles Hollywood Sign guided walking tours or other Catalina Island day trips to make the most of your visit to Southern California's coastal attractions.
Why you'll love it
- Sit 5-10 feet below the ocean surface in a climate-controlled cabin
- View kelp forests and protected waters around Avalon through large portholes
- Spot garibaldi fish, kelp bass, sea stars and sea urchins up close
- Cruise aboard the Nautilus on a 45-minute guided underwater excursion
- No diving or snorkelling gear needed for a full underwater marine experience
What's included
- 45-minute cruise
- Professional crew
- Avalon ferry
- Fish food (available for purchase)
- Tips
Good to know
- Age suitability
- Suitable for all ages
- Know before you go
Experience an Underwater Adventure
Step aboard the semi-submersible Nautilus for a unique perspective on the ocean habitat surrounding Catalina Island. This custom-built vessel gives you the chance to sit below the waterline and gaze out through large portholes as you glide past kelp forests - and possibly spot schools of colorful fish, rays and peaceful marine sanctuaries.
The Nautilus Semi-Submarine Journey
The Nautilus is inspired by the famed USS Nautilus and blends comfort with adventure. As your captain navigates along Catalina’s scenic coastline, you'll pass through protected waters crowded with aquatic life. Each guest has access to a porthole, ensuring every moment spent aboard reveals a new underwater scene.
Watch as brilliant orange Garibaldi and other native fish swim past
Observe swaying kelp forests and rocky reefs
Enjoy the insights of a local crew familiar with the area’s ecosystem
Interactive Features
Enhance your marine experience using the torpedo-shaped buttons at your seat, which control fish food dispensers (available separately for purchase). Feeding bursts attract hungry fish, letting you witness a flurry of activity just inches from your window.
Evening & Nocturnal Explorations
Depending on the season, select evenings offer special departures designed to highlight nocturnal sea life. Watch for nocturnal creatures emerging as the sun sets, and experience the shift in the marine environment beneath twilight waves.
Perfect for Families and Groups
This semi-submarine excursion is suitable for guests of all ages, combining fun underwater observation with educational moments. If you are traveling with family or friends, it's a stress-free and accessible way to glimpse the natural world below the surface.
Everything You Need to Know
Fish food for the feeding activity is optional and sold onboard
Trips operate with a professional and attentive crew
The vessel is not wheelchair accessible
Facilities and duration are designed to ensure a comfortable journey for everyone
Ferry transportation to Avalon is not included in the excursion price
Prepare for your trip by arriving on time and bringing any essentials you may need for a short adventure. Remember to consider evening trips for a different look at the region’s lively marine habitats. See more experiences in Los Angeles on tickadoo. Looking for more? Check out Catalina submarine day trip or glass bottom boat on tickadoo.
- Visitor guidelines
Arrive early to ensure timely boarding
Bring a camera for underwater shots
No wheelchair access available
Fish food can be purchased aboard
Check for available evening trips for nocturnal sights
- Cancellation policy
Free cancellation
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