We boarded a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) craft that accommodates up to 12 guests. Children had to be 5 or older. Children age 5 to 9 must sit with a parent on the back bench which was perfectly fine and safer. Blankets to keep us warm are available upon request.
We wasted no time on our tour as the boat left on time. The captain stated early on that there was no guarantees, but he would try his best to find dolphins for us. The water was so blue and pristine.
They took us to a remote side of the island where sea lions and rare seals were sunbathing and swimming. The animals were napping so peacefully. I wondered what adventures they faced getting there, and where they were headed to after they rested. The captain also pointed out an eagle on the cliff.
About half way into our tour, we spotted dolphin pods. There were hundreds of common dolphins! In no time, we were riding along the pods, and dolphins were seen all around us and riding our waves.
This is the closest we've seen dolphins in their natural environment. It was truly amazing, and a great experience! Wow, just wow!
We were out there for another good 15 minutes before we headed back inland. The tour lasted an hour as they said, and because of the fast high-speed craft, we got around pretty quickly. We enjoyed views of beautiful Avalon Harbor on the way back. The Dolphin Quest Tour is now one of our favorite experiences on Catalina Island. The kids had fun too. If you easily get motion sickness, have back or neck issues, this tour might not be for you. (Note: Children must be five years or older.)
The Dolphin Quest Tour heads out of the Avalon Harbor three times a day to search for dolphins. It is a year round tour. "Watch these incredible creatures in their natural environment on a guided tour using a high-speed, RIB (rigid inflatable boat) craft." Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. For hours, pricing, or to make a reservation, please call (800) 626-1496 or visit their website at www.visitcatalinaisland.com/activities-adventures/boating/dolphin-quest.
There's nothing better when you see these beauties in their natural environment! So glad you were able to spot them on your tour.. what a neat experience for your boys!
ReplyDeleteThat looks like so much fun! I definitely want to take the kids to see the dolphins there.
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