Going to Catalina

[jmani]

So I am getting ready to go to Catilina over the Colombus day weekend. Can't wait. For all the times I have the drive to southern CA I have never made it to Catalina. Any tips or advice would be great.

Thanks,

John

 

[dlndavid]

Just got back, great diving, temps in the upper 60's. Have fun.

 

[Divmstr223]

Catalina is beautiful.... you'll have a great time there! No advice, just have fun and don't wash out your snotty mask in the rinse bucket!

 

[riguerin]

Check out the Great Catalina Sticky Thread. Good luck !

 

[uspap]

I just got back from Catalina. I would plan on doing Casino Point. It was equal to any of the boat dives I did there. I did not do Farnsworth Banks which I'm sure would have spanked all other dives. It's my understanding that this is not a regular trip and conditions can be very rough because it is an exposed site. I would definately arange for some boat diving though. Make sure you arrange your transfers to and from the island in advance. The ferrys do not run on the hour. Long Beach has the most options when it comes to departures. There is a one tank per person limit that you can bring on the ferry. Don't pack your weights in your bags they get a little moody about that. Carry them on with your tank. If you can go during the week I would. Catalina can be a zoo on the weekends and the dive boats crowded. Are you staying on the island? Are you bringing your own gear? If you are staying you can take your gear and suitcases to baggage services which is to your left when you get off the boat. They will take your gear to your hotel for you. Do not expect 5 star accomadations. The people I ran into were not overly helpful because your options are limited. I don't think I would recommend the Hotel Atwater just because they have very small rooms and you would most likely have to store your gear in the check room. They really don't check at all and I could have walked off with half the room and they wouldn't care.

The viz was awesome, tons of fish and the water was about 70. There are some pretty good theroclines so use your normal cold water suit. I brought my hood with me but didn't need it.

 

[www.scubamazing.com]

I'm jeleous you get to go. Catalina is great. and I agree Casino Point usually proves to be a great dive.

 

[ChrisA]

So I am getting ready to go to Catilina over the Colombus day weekend. Can't wait. For all the times I have the drive to southern CA I have never made it to Catalina. Any tips or advice would be great.

What advice to give depends on if you are taking the ferry to Avalon or a chartter dive boat. If the ferry how long are you staying? Post or PM some details if you would.

 

[merxlin]

I was there last Saturday. Viz was OK, and temps are still 70's to mid-60's at depth north of Isthmus. Because of the warm water a lot of the kelp is gone, so the fish count was down even from where it was in mid August for us. Casino is great but can be crowded.

 

[TheHobster]

Enjoy and tell us about it and let me live vicariously!

 

[cadiver67]

You're gonna love it!

Have been to Casino Point Park a bunch of times. Lots of fish, a few wrecks, some reefs - it's a lot of fun. It's gets pretty crowded on the weekends - so get there early.

I have only used the Catalina Express and it's $56.50 round trip from Long Beach www.catalinaexpress.com but there are others - don't know if they are cheaper.

There is a scuba shop van right next to the park that has air fills and rentals if you need anything - I think they open around 8:00 AM - again be there early!!

There are also charter boats that service Catalina Island and thats really cool too.
I went on the Bottom Scratcher and Great Escape this month and they were both fun they cost around $100.00 and include your air fills and tons of food all day long.
I booked them through Sport Chalet there is a schedule on their website http://www.sportchalet.com/corp/index.jsp?page=divers_charters

The only draw back with the Sport Chalet Charters is that there are usually some classes on the boat - so you may not go to any of the more advanced spots if there are lots of students on board.

There is a list of boats on the California Dive Boats website www.californiadiveboats.com

My wife and I will be there too that weekend- maybe I will see you there.
Have fun!!