Catalina Diving

[CALI68]

Hi, I'm currently on a cruise and we didn't plan on diving but at the last minute we dicided to sign up for it. We will be diving with Avalon Scuba Adventures Wed. at 10:00 AM and I was wondering if anyone knows anything about this outfit. We didn't bring so much as a mask so we have to use all rental gear. This computer is crazy expensive so I'll check back latter.

Thanks for the help!
-Chris

 

[CALI68]

Ooops, I read the ticket wrong. The outfit is called Catlina Divers Outlet. Any info? please.

 

[saf_25]

My advice is to not sign up for a dive with the cruise ship. Instead, go to Catalina Diver's Supply directly to rent gear, then take it over to the Casino area (big round building -clearly visible landmark) and dive in the park there for free. Of course, that depends on what they're charging you, but the diving at the Casino is free, I would imagine that rental gear wouldn't cost more than $60 each for all day use, plus another $5 per fill, depending on how many dives you want to do. The dive park is a gorgeous place, too - lots of everything, kelp, some wrecks, shallow reefs, deep reefs, etc..... Plenty to keep you busy for at least 3 dives (heck I've done 30 dives there and haven't seen it all!).
Now, if they're charging less than $100 each, it might be worth it to go on the cruise outing and have a guide/everything arranged, etc.... But, for more than that, which I think cruises usually charge, I'd just do it on my own.

If you do choose that, it's pretty easy - you'll see the steps in the rocks to enter the water - just watch the rocks the first few feet out of the steps and you're all set. Good luck!

 

[xSandman3]

I agree with Saf...wouldn't waste my money on a boat. The tender will let you off at the Green Pier. Walk a few feet to Catalina Divers and go to the park, you'll love it.

 

[ScubaSeanMaui]

I would advise you to do a few dives from a boat. Many people love Casino Point, but I think some other spots around the island have to be better. If you have 1 day, you might as well try to do the best dives you can; go for the boat dive!!!

 

[mccabejc]

Stop, you're both right !!! Catalina Divers Supply also has charter dive boats that will take you out on snorkel/dive excursions. I've never tried it, but it's an option. Charter boat is located at the same place on the pier where you rent gear. Take a look at www.catalinadiverssupply.com

 

[CALI68]

Thanks for the help.

 

[drbill]

Not familiar with either name. There are three outfits int own that can arrange guided dives for you directly if desired... SCUBA Luv just inland from the end of the Green Pier, Catalina Divers Supply located on the pier and Catalina Scuba and Snorkeling Adventures I think that is the correct name). All three have good instructors/DM's and can rent you equipment.

Gear rental is about $50/day so you can do a one tank dive for that at the Park, or add another $5 for a refill and do two tanks. The dive boats may leave before your shoreboats land and not make it back until too late to catch the cruise ship. Check with whoever you choose the dive with on the specifics there.

Dr. Bill
Dr. Bill

 

[CALI68]

Dove with Catalina Divers Supply on Wed. Great conditions , great dive...forgot towels...bummer. Otherwise lots of fun.