Catalina, late may?

[robint]

You know, the park is open all year---why not come visit twice so you can compare the conditions first hand?

yeah, but its a 12 hour drive, which means it is 2 travel days not counting the days diving. It takes a bit more planning and $$ than for you locals.
If I had my way, we would come out 4-5 times a year. I love the kelp diving and don't mind the cold water (at least the 60 degree water). We've done the Spectre, Peace, and Great Escape several times each but we have never actually stayed on Catalina. I think that is our next goal.

robin

 

[merxlin]

yeah, but its a 12 hour drive, which means it is 2 travel days not counting the days diving. It takes a bit more planning and $$ than for you locals.
If I had my way, we would come out 4-5 times a year. I love the kelp diving and don't mind the cold water (at least the 60 degree water). We've done the Spectre, Peace, and Great Escape several times each but we have never actually stayed on Catalina. I think that is our next goal.

robin

Try midweek during the summer- when all the dive bums except Dr. Bill are still working. Room rates are usually cheaper too.

 

[drbill]

Damn, Dr. Bill, the water temp is that warm already? Just last month, it was like 52-F at depth.

We're still getting some pulses of cold water at depth, but I stayed above the thermocline... more bottom time and less chill (since I'm diving my 3/2mm right now)

 

[drbill]

Viz wise, isnt winter the best time to dive Catalina? If you have a drysuit, who cares how cold the water is. Its the viz that calls when you dive right? Or no.

Traditionally winter has been the best time for vis, etc. but to some degree the appearance of the highly invasive Asian seaweed Sargassum horneri has affected winter diving both in terms of infestation and reduced visibility (later in its annual cycle).