Discover the Underwater World of Catalina Island from Avalon
Imagine cruising on a semi-submarine that takes you down six feet below the surface, giving you a close-up view of marine life without getting wet. This 45-minute tour from Avalon offers an accessible way to explore Catalina’s underwater gardens, with departures scheduled throughout the day to fit most itineraries. For just $53 a person, you’ll get a front-row seat to vibrant fish, kelp forests, and perhaps even a manta ray or grouper—an adventure perfect for families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the local sea life.
What makes this tour particularly appealing are two key features: Firstly, the dry viewing portholes which mean you don’t have to snorkel or scuba gear to enjoy the sights. Second, the friendly guides who often share fascinating details about the local fish and the history of the vessel, inspired by America’s first nuclear submarine. These elements make the experience both accessible and educational, with plenty of opportunities for fun and discovery.
A possible consideration is the extra cost for fish food, which many reviews highlight as a highlight but can feel like an additional expense if you’re unprepared. Also, punctuality is crucial since the tours leave promptly, and late arrivals might miss out without refunds. This tour suits those looking for a family-friendly, relaxed, and informative activity that offers a different perspective on Catalina’s marine environment.
If you’re visiting Avalon and want a unique, engaging, and scenic experience that combines comfort with adventure, this semi-submarine tour is well worth considering. It’s particularly ideal for travelers with young children, non-swimmers, or anyone eager to see Catalina’s underwater beauty without the constraints of snorkeling or diving.
Key Points
- Dry Viewing Experience: No need for snorkels; all the marine sights are visible through clear portholes.
- Flexible Scheduling: Departures hourly from mid-morning until sunset, making it easy to fit into your day.
- Family-Friendly: Popular with kids, who love feeding the fish and seeing marine creatures up close.
- Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable crew who add educational value and humor.
- Extra Costs: Fish food is available for purchase, approximately $20 cash, which many reviews praise as a highlight.
- Punctuality Matters: Tours depart on time; arriving early enhances your experience and seating options.
Planning more time in Catalina Island? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
In-Depth Review of the Catalina Semi-Submarine Tour
Setting the Scene: The Experience Starts at Green Pier
Boarding the semi-submarine, known as the SS Nautilus, is straightforward and convenient if you’re on Avalon’s Green Pier. You’ll find the boat ready to take you beneath the waves for a 45-minute voyage. The vessel’s design, inspired by the famous USS Nautilus, adds a touch of naval history, making it not just a sightseeing boat but a conversation starter.
The group size is limited to 48 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging ride. Most departures are well attended, but you’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early to check in and settle in. Reviews often mention that early arrival is wise; once the ride starts, they won’t wait for latecomers.
What You’ll See and Experience Underwater
Once underway, the boat cruises to Lovers’ Cove, a protected spot known for its vibrant marine life and kelp forests. Here, the semi-submarine gently sinks about six feet below the surface, giving you a panoramic view of the underwater environment through large, clear portholes. It’s a much more comfortable alternative to snorkeling, especially for little ones or those not inclined to get wet.
A highlight is fish feeding, which you can do for an extra $20 cash—something many reviewers find exceptionally fun. The crew often shares entertaining stories and insights, adding a layer of education. One reviewer mentions that “Joe, our guide, was awesome and funny,” which seems to be a common theme among satisfied guests.
Marine Life and Undersea Gardens
Expect to see a variety of local fish, from Garibaldi to grouper, and possibly even manta rays or other larger creatures. Some guests note they saw literally thousands of fish, with one reviewer calling the experience “awesome.” The visibility is generally good, although one review points out that “only one side of the windows had their windows replaced,” which affected viewing clarity on that side.
The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, sharing details about the fish and the ecosystem. The underwater kelp forests and gardens are a visual treat, with many reviewers describing the sights as “magical” or “beautiful.”
The Return: Viewing Avalon from the Top Deck
After the underwater section, the boat surfaces to return to Avalon. During this part of the trip, you’re encouraged to take in spectacular views of Catalina Island from the top deck, where the fresh sea breeze and panoramic vistas make for a perfect end to your marine adventure.
The Overall Atmosphere
The overall vibe is relaxed and family-friendly, with many reviews emphasizing the crew’s kindness and knowledge. Tour guides are often praised for their humor, friendliness, and passion, making the 45-minute ride both fun and educational.
One reviewer shared that “the crew was very knowledgeable, fun, and kind,” which highlights how well they manage to balance entertainment and information. This makes it an activity that both kids and adults can enjoy equally.
Cost and Value Considerations
At $53, this tour offers a great value for the experience of seeing Catalina’s undersea world without the hassle of snorkeling gear or diving certifications. Remember, fish food is extra, but many guests say it’s worth it—they describe the feeding experience as “the kids loved it,” and it adds an interactive element to the tour.
Transportation to Catalina Island is not included, so you’ll need to plan ahead for your ferry or boat ride. The tour is also weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This semi-submarine adventure is perfect for families with children, as it’s safe, dry, and highly engaging. It’s also ideal for non-swimmers or anyone who prefers not to snorkel but still wants a close look at Catalina’s marine life. Nature lovers and those interested in marine ecosystems will appreciate the guides’ insights and the stunning underwater views.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and educational activity that requires minimal effort but delivers plenty of visual rewards, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially recommended if you want a fun, interactive experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 45 minutes, including the underwater viewing and the return ride to Avalon.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Green Pleasure Pier in Avalon, California.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is very popular with kids, especially because of the fish feeding and the chance to see marine animals up close from a safe, dry vessel.
Do I need to snorkel or swim?
No. The semi-submarine allows you to see underwater sights without getting wet or getting in the water.
How much does fish food cost?
Fish food is available for purchase at about $20 cash, and many reviewers say it’s worth buying to enhance the experience.
What should I bring?
Arrive 15 minutes early, bring cash for optional extras like fish food, and dress comfortably. Sunscreen and hats are recommended for the top deck.
Are there any restrictions or considerations?
Late arrivals cannot join the tour, and weather can affect departures. Children must be supervised by an adult.
Is the experience educational?
Yes, guides share facts about the fish and the ecosystem, making it a great learning experience for curious minds.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. After that, no refunds are given.
What’s the overall vibe of the tour?
Relaxed, friendly, and informative, with a focus on making marine viewing accessible and fun for everyone.
Final Thoughts
The Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island offers a distinctive way to enjoy the island’s underwater scenery without the need for snorkel gear or diving experience. The dry viewing portholes, combined with the knowledgeable guides and interactive fish feeding, make this a memorable activity for families, non-swimmers, or anyone eager to see marine life up close.
While it’s not the cheapest activity on the island, the value lies in the ease of access and the engaging storytelling. The tour’s focus on safety, comfort, and fun makes it an ideal choice for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic, and educational experience. The extra cost for fish food is a small price to pay for the joy of feeding the fish and witnessing the underwater world firsthand.
If you’re visiting Avalon and looking for a distinctive, family-friendly activity that offers beautiful views and an up-close look at Catalina’s marine inhabitants, this semi-submarine tour is a solid pick. Just remember to arrive early, bring cash if you want to feed the fish, and dress comfortably for the weather. It’s an adventure that combines education, scenery, and a dash of whimsy, giving you a unique perspective on Catalina’s coast.
Additional Details
What’s Included: English guide, scenic views, and the semi-submarine ride
What’s Not Included: Fish food, ferry transportation, or additional travel expenses
Meeting Point: Green Pleasure Pier, Avalon
Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
Price: $53 per person
Group Size: Max 48 travelers
Cancellation Policy: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance
Enjoy your maritime adventure on Catalina’s semi-submarine—an experience that’s both fun and full of surprises!