Starting at $50 | 45 Minutes | Most Popular!
Discover Catalina Island’s underwater world effortlessly aboard The Nautilus semi-submarine. This 45-minute guided tour from Avalon gives you a front-row seat to vibrant marine life and kelp forests without getting wet.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including children and seniors
Wildlife
History
Catalina Island was designated as a game preserve in 1927, helping to protect its unique marine and island ecosystems.
Conservation
The tour operates with eco-friendly practices to minimize impact on Catalina’s delicate marine habitats, supporting ongoing conservation efforts.
Catalina Adventure Tours
Starting at $50 | 45 Minutes | Most Popular!
Catalina Adventure Tours, based in Avalon, California, operates guided tours across Catalina Island that highlight the island’s landscapes, wildlife, and history. The company offers four signature experiences: the Summit Sunset Tour, a one-hour tram ascent aboard The Falcon to 1,500 feet with panoramic views and narrated stories; The Nautilus Semi-Submarine Excursion, a 45-minute underwater observation trip modeled after America's first nuclear submarine with underwater gardens, fish feeding, and seasonal evening missions; the Catalina Island City & Scenic Mt Ada Tour, a 50-minute tram tour aboard The Eagle visiting Mt. Ada and the Catalina Casino; and the Inside Adventure Tour, a two-hour eco-land excursion through canyons and coastline featuring wildlife sightings, the Nature Center, and ancient Native American sites.
Guides on each tour provide educational narration about the island’s ecology, cultural history, and conservation efforts. Tours combine comfortable transport, photographic viewpoints, and opportunities to observe species such as bald eagles and the island’s bison herd. The Nautilus offers a unique underwater perspective while tram tours deliver elevated panoramic vistas.
Catalina Adventure Tours works within Avalon’s visitor infrastructure and supports preservation by educating guests about local ecosystems. Tour durations and clear descriptions help travelers choose the right experience. With professional guides, established routes like Mt. Ada and dependable vessels such as The Falcon, The Eagle, and the Nautilus, the operation presents a reliable, informative way to explore Catalina Island. Tickets are sold at Avalon ticket booths, partner kiosks, and official websites, with schedule updates posted seasonally for visitor planning purposes.
Location
Avalon, CA
Operating from Avalon, California
Tours Offered
4 Signature Trips
Range from 45–120 minutes
Duration Range
45–120 min
Short and longer excursions available
Vessels & Trams
Nautilus, Falcon, Eagle
Semi-submarine and safari trams
Choose the perfect Avalon tour — from sunset tram rides to semi-submarine excursions — and secure a spot for an unforgettable island experience.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Board early to secure a window seat for optimal underwater views during the excursion.
Bring a Light Jacket
Even on warm days, the vessel's interior can feel cool due to ocean breezes and air conditioning.
Watch for Wildlife Activity
Keep your eyes peeled near kelp beds where marine life is most active; guides will point out key spots.
Manage Motion Sensitivity
If prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication before boarding as the vessel gently moves.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture vivid underwater scenes through the vessel’s large viewing windows.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from strong sunlight when on deck before or after the tour.
summer
Light Jacket
Stay comfortable in cool ocean breezes during the boat ride.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before or after your excursion.