Have you done a Catalina-based dive trip?

[Rob9000]

I am curious about this as an alternative to live-aboards....and a way to include my non-diving and easily sea sick wife on a dive trip. I just did a little Google'ing around, but I would like to get the recommendations of others who know about it.....recommendations on where to stay...dive operations.....logistics of getting there and getting around....etc.

 

[drbill]

There is a "sticky" thread in the SoCal forum about diving Catalina that gives a lot of very useful information for someone visiting for the first time... a lot of stuff I wouldn't even think of as a 39-year resident of the island. Check it out. Also, feel free to PM me with questions.

 

[RS]

Ron Parker will set you up good. He's setting up a 3 day'r over memorial day. Stay at the Atwater (iirc) and dive off the king neptune, via scuba luv. drbill dives off the same boat most days, iirc squared.

Do you know Ron?

R

 

[fdog]

We've dove quite often on board the Scuba Cat and had a great time. Nice folks, gave us respect as experienced divers, and managed to be helpful to our less experienced friends at the same time.

All the best, James

 

[drbill]

Good to hear Ron is bringing another group down to dive on the King Neptune with SCUBA Luv. Scuba Luv can arrange packages that include cross-channel boat tickets, hotel and boat diving.

 

[Rob9000]

No I don't know Ron, but I would like to learn more about how people are putting packages together. I see the dive boat operators offer some packaging services. On Memorial weekend I'll be doing my wreck alley & Horizon trip.

So far it seems that from a price perspective, it is similar to doing a trip to San Diego, but the differences would be:
- On Catalina you have more of a resort feeling (?), whereas in San Diego you'll be sharing the hotel with people attending weddings and families going to Sea World
- On Catalina it appears you do not need a car (you can go without a car in San Diego - it just means you will be staying at the Dana)
- Shore diving is easier on Catalina


Is it a problem bringing tanks on the ferries?

 

[Teamcasa]

Dr. Bill is right, the sticky has lots of good info. But since you asked, I’ll add a few thoughts.
I love diving the island. Both from the two different operators and the park. You do not need a car but you will do a bit of walking. My wife and I have stayed at several different hotels and we like the Villa Portofino Hotel, close to downtown and diver friendly.

Tanks are no problem on the Catalina Express. They only have one rule, you must be able to make it from the dock to the boat in one trip with all your gear.

One way or the other, a short vacation on Catalina is very rewarding and fun.

 

[Bubble Maker]

We went to Catalina over President's day weekend. Booked a package deal through Scuba Luv and got the bonus of being entertained on the boat by Dr. Bill! It was a great time all around and would definitely do it again.

 

[drbill]

Yep, let me entertain you (ha ha!).

 

[Anti-Hero]

I recently dove Casino point, compared to all the Monterey diving I do, it was excellent! The aquatic life even in the park was amazing! I will be returning as soon as I can.