Ultimate 2.5 Day San Clemente Island Spearfishing and Freediving Charter

Read the full experience

Set off from San Diego’s Dana Landing Fuel Dock and head nearly 120 miles offshore to the rich, open waters surrounding San Clemente Island, a lesser-known jewel off Southern California’s coast. This 2.5-day charter offers freedivers and spearos an immersive experience in pursuing large pelagic fish such as Blue Fin Tuna, one of the ocean’s most prized quarry. Far beyond the reach of standard day boats, this trip opens access to some of the most productive and remote fishing grounds in the region. The Escapade, your floating basecamp, is designed with comfort and functionality at its core. From night cruises where you sleep soundly in oversized bunks, to dawn and dusk dives in the cool waters teeming with life, this boat allows you to maximize your time underwater and recover in style between sessions. Modern amenities include a refrigerated fish hold to preserve your catch, large bait tanks, an outdoor hot freshwater shower, and a fully stocked galley with appliances like an electric griddle, Instapot, and coffee maker — all geared toward making long offshore trips feel less like an endurance test and more like an adventure. Guided by a licensed captain and a deckhand who doubles as a freediving instructor and spearfishing guide, this charter delivers expert support. Whether you’re refining your dive technique, seeking safe buddy backup on deep descents, or just needing help hauling your catch aboard, these pros ensure a safe, productive outing. Their intimate knowledge of the waters and local pelagic habits means dives are strategically timed around dawn and dusk, when hungry tunas feed near kelp paddies and kelp lines. San Clemente Island itself is a distinctive landmark with dramatic underwater topography, ranging from rocky reefs to kelp forests sheltering colorful marine fauna. The island’s military ownership limits casual public access, making this permitted trip an exceptional opportunity to explore its unique ecosystem and abundant fish populations. This adventure isn’t just about the catch. It’s about embracing the rhythm of the sea, the thrill of the hunt, and reconnecting with nature far from the crowds. As you float above the blue depths, you’ll witness firsthand why Southern California’s offshore waters remain a treasure trove for dedicated anglers and freedivers alike. Preparations include having your California fishing license ready and bringing specialized spearfishing and diving gear, as well as layers for varying weather conditions. The charter provides meals, beverages, wetsuit lube, and toiletries, but packing your own reusable water bottle and sun protection is crucial. Accessible from the bustling city of San Diego, this expedition stands out as a premium, expertly guided offshore experience where adventure meets comfort. Whether you’re chasing trophy tuna or simply craving an extended dive beyond the shoreline, the 2.5 Day San Clemente Island Charter offers a rare blend of wilderness immersion and reliable support on the high seas.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

challenging.

Duration

2.5 days.

Fitness level

Participants should be in good physical condition with strong swimming and freediving skills to maximize dive times and handle offshore conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Is prior spearfishing experience required?

While not mandatory, prior experience significantly enhances safety and success. The guides provide safety and technique support for divers of varying skill levels.

What meals are provided during the charter?

Three meals per day plus snacks, coffee, sodas, and drinking water are included, prepared onboard for convenience and comfort.

Do I need to bring my own diving gear?

Yes. Spearfishing and freediving gear are not provided, so bring your own suited to offshore ocean conditions.

Is the boat suitable for those prone to seasickness?

The Escapade’s heavy, stable design minimizes motion, but seasickness-prone guests should bring remedies just in case.

How many people are on the trip?

Trips accommodate up to four divers plus the captain and deckhand, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Are fishing licenses required?

A California fishing license is mandatory; Mexican licenses may be needed if traveling into Mexican waters—check regulations before booking.

Local insights

Wildlife

Blue Fin Tuna
California Sea Lions

History

San Clemente Island is a U.S. Navy-controlled site, limiting access but preserving rich marine habitats and offshore fish populations.

Conservation

Operational practices emphasize sustainability through catch limits, catch handling techniques, and minimizing environmental impact around sensitive island habitats.

About Just Get Wet

Just Get Wet is a San Diego–based ocean adventure company specializing in freediving, spearfishing, and small-group wildlife trips. With a menu of focused experiences — from pool-only beginner freediving to two-day advanced freediving retreats and a Sea of Cortez liveaboard spearfishing trip — the company serves learners and experienced divers across Southern California and beyond. All programs emphasize safety, skill development, and local ecosystem awareness. Certified instructors lead hands-on spearfishing courses covering breath-hold techniques, fish identification, and sustainable catch practices. Freediving offerings span beginner pool sessions, intermediate courses, an Intermediate Freediver Plus Spearfishing combo, and two-day advanced training that mixes classroom theory, controlled pool work, and open-water practice. For boat-based adventures, small group sizes ensure personalized attention. The whale watching adventure caps at six guests aboard a fast, stable boat with an experienced captain guiding 2–2.5 hour excursions to observe whales and dolphins. The Coronado Islands spearfishing day trip and San Diego shore dives explore kelp forests, Wreck Alley, and Zuniga Jetty under expert supervision. Equipment guidance and tailored coaching help participants build confidence and measurable improvements in bottom time, depth access, and relaxation. Specialty offerings include women-only dives, surf survival courses, and pool training sessions that focus on technique and endurance. Just Get Wet partners with certified instructors and experienced captains to deliver focused, safe, and memorable marine experiences for divers, spearfishers, and ocean enthusiasts seeking skills, adventure, and stewardship. Booking options include single trips, combined course packages, and specialty clinics designed to match varied skill levels and scheduling needs today.

Base locationSan Diego, California

Tours offered35+

Adventure tips

Arrive Prepared with LicensesEnsure you have a valid California fishing license and check if you need a Mexican license, as this trip crosses international waters.

Layer Up for Offshore WeatherBring multiple clothing layers to stay warm during nighttime travel and cool dives, including a dry set for evenings.

Keep Gear Minimal but CompleteSpace is limited onboard, so pack only necessary spearfishing and diving equipment, plus towels and sun protection.

Hydrate and Protect SkinBring a reusable water bottle and high-SPF sunscreen to stay hydrated and shielded from strong ocean sun exposure.

Recommended gear

Wetsuit Lube and Defog: Maintains suit comfort and clear vision during long dive sessions.
Spearfishing Gear: Necessary for catching large pelagic fish like Blue Fin Tuna.
Reusable Water Bottle: Keeps you hydrated on deck during sunny, warm days offshore.
Multiple Clothing Layers: Useful for warmth during night travel and after dives in variable temperatures.