Charter a boat from Oxnard to Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands with Channel Islands Tours. Encounter dolphins, striking volcanic cliffs, and a historic lighthouse on a half- or full-day marine adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–8 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness needed; suitable for most ages and abilities
Wildlife
History
The Anacapa Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1932 and remains a notable landmark guiding vessels through the Channel Islands.
Conservation
The National Park Service carefully manages the islands to protect endangered species and fragile marine habitats, encouraging sustainable visitor practices.
Channel Islands Tours
Charter a boat from Oxnard to Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands with Channel Islands Tours. Encounter dolphins, striking volcanic cliffs, and a historic lighthouse on a half- or full-day marine adventure.
Channel Islands Tours is an Oxnard-based operator offering guided boat trips that showcase the marine wildlife and island scenery of the Santa Barbara Channel. The operator lists a set of tours that visit Anacapa Island and Santa Cruz Island and highlights wildlife sightings such as dolphins, whales, and seals.
Available experiences include a 2-hour tour from Channel Islands Harbor to Anacapa Island featuring dolphins, whales, Arch Rock, and the lighthouse; a 3-hour circle-islands tour from Channel Islands Harbor that visits Anacapa and cruises to Santa Cruz Island with a swim at Smugglers Cove; and a full-day private charter option that provides up to eight hours of island exploration, wildlife viewing, swims in secluded coves, and time ashore for lunch.
Trip descriptions focus on scenic sightseeing, marine wildlife encounter opportunities, and island landmarks including Arch Rock, the lighthouse, and Smugglers Cove. Channel Islands Tours operates from Oxnard, California, and provides clear tour choices for visitors seeking short excursions or extended private charters. The business emphasizes local routes and natural highlights found in the Channel Islands National Park region, helping visitors plan a wildlife-focused ocean experience.
Location
Oxnard, CA
Departures based in Oxnard
Trip Durations
2–8 hours
Short, mid, and full-day options
Tours Offered
3 trips
Three distinct tour formats
Notable Wildlife
Dolphins & Whales
Wildlife featured in summaries
Select a 2-hour, 3-hour, or full-day private charter and secure a seat or customize a private trip today.
Book Early for Private Charters
Private charters fill quickly, especially in summer—reserve at least a month in advance to secure your preferred date.
Bring Layers for Changing Weather
The ocean breeze and marine layer can make conditions cool even in summer; pack a windbreaker or fleece.
Motion Sickness Precautions
If you're prone to seasickness, take preventative measures before your trip—waves can make the ride choppy.
Pack Binoculars and Camera
Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and a camera with zoom to capture the stunning rock formations and marine life.
Windbreaker or fleece
Protects against ocean breezes and cooler temperatures on deck.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing beyond the boat.
Sunscreen
Important for sun protection in open water.
spring|summer|fall
Camera with zoom lens
Capture detailed shots of island formations and marine life.