Descend beneath Avalon Bay aboard Catalina's glass-windowed semi-submarine and drift through towering kelp forests alive with garibaldi, sheephead, and Catalina sea bass — no wetsuit, no certification required.
What to expect
You descend into the hull of a purpose-built semi-submarine, seated beside panoramic windows at the waterline. The kelp forest closes in like an amber cathedral, shafts of Pacific light filtering through 40-foot fronds. Bright-orange garibaldi — California's official state marine fish — glide past the glass alongside leopard sharks resting on the sandy floor. Your marine naturalist provides live commentary on this UNESCO-recognised ecosystem.
Good to know
The expedition departs from Avalon's Casino Point dock, a 10-minute walk from the tender pier. Duration is approximately 45 minutes. For a private charter experience, contact the Catalina Island Company directly at +1 (877) 778-8322. Book well ahead during peak season.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Avalon — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Avalon
- Private Golf Cart Tour of Avalon with Expert Local Guide
- Catalina Casino: Art Deco Icon & Panoramic Tower Tour
- Lovers Cove Marine Reserve Snorkel & Glass-Bottom Kayak
- Catalina Falconry Experience: Fly a Hawk Over the Pacific
- Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden: Hilltop Sanctuary Walk
- Descanso Beach Club: Private Cabana & Catalina Coastal Luxury
- Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour: Five Lines Over the Pacific at Dusk
- Catalina Island Conservancy Eco-Jeep Wildland Adventure