Explore Catalina Island's Underwater Wonders Aboard The Nautilus Semi-Submarine
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including children and seniors
Overview
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.
Cloned-Semi-Submarine Excursion - The Nautilus
Starting at $50 | 45 Minutes | Most Popular!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Six Feet Under Your Imagination!
Rates
- Adult (Ages 12 - 54): $60 ($56.50 + fees)
- Child (Ages 3 - 11): $50 ($47.00 + fees)
- Senior (Ages 55+): $52 ($48.75 + fees)
- Military $52 ($48.75 + fees)
- Infants (Ages 2 & Under): $10 ($9 + fees)
Duration
45 Minutes
About
Amazing undersea garden sights await adventurers aboard the semi-submersible Nautilus, designed after America's first nuclear powered submarine, the USS Nautilus. Join our captain and his crew on an exploratory mission that is both educational and entertaining. This vessel features a fish food feeding system launched by torpedo buttons so you can feed the fish from your seat (for an additional charge).
Fire One! Fire Two! You have not entered enemy waters; you are now in a marine preserved sanctuary where a feeding frenzy delight seafarers. Seasonal evening missions may also be offered for viewing nocturnal sea creatures active only after dark!
Tours are approximately 45 minutes and leave from the green Pleasure Pier. Seasonal evening missions may also be offered where explorers can view nocturnal sea creatures active only after dark.
Things to Know
Ambulatory Requirements: Participants must be able to transfer to vessel (walk 12 steep steps down to and up from the seating area).
Advisories: For safety, you should be in good health and free from claustrophobia or anxiety symptoms, high blood pressure, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this adventure.
- Children (Ages 3-11) and infants (Ages 2 & under) must be accompanied by an adult.
- Infants (2 and under) are required to have a ticket to ride USCG vessel boat tours; fare is FREE, but ticket fee will apply.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California Garibaldi
- Leopard Shark
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Avalon
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
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 specific
Light Jacket
Stay comfortable in cool ocean breezes during the boat ride.
spring specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before or after your excursion.