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Florida day cruises & boat tours, sail away into the sunset on one of florida's many boat cruises and tours..

By Erin Carter

After spending a long, hot day at the beach, taking in Florida’s mansions and other shoreline vistas from a deck chair could be the perfect recipe for Florida day cruises. 

St. Augustine Scenic Cruises - scenic-cruise.com St. Augustine Relax and take in the sights aboard Victory III’s one-hour, 15-minute cruise. The tour, narrated by the captain, shows off the beauty of the city with its natural and historic landmarks, including the Bridge of Lions.

Dolphin Cruise - southernstardolphincruise.com Destin Relax on a two-hour tour aboard this million-dollar cruise ship with Captain Steve. Children are allowed to steer the 80-foot glass-bottom boat, which has a snack bar and restrooms.

Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise - captainmemo.com Clearwater Water-gun battles and treasure hunts are just some of the kid-friendly activities offered during this two-hour family fun cruise. Complimentary beverages are also available.

Hubbard’s Marina - hubbardsmarina.com John’s Pass, Madeira Beach The catamaran Big Blue tour boat not only takes you out to see the dolphins but also showcases a wide variety of birds, including osprey and pelicans. During sunset tours, enjoy free drinks while you cruise down the Intracoastal Waterway, past Treasure Island and through Blind Pass, returning by way of the Gulf of Mexico.

Pier Dolphin Cruises - stpetepier.com St. Petersburg Pier Climb aboard the catamaran M/V Dolphin Queen, where dolphin sightings are guaranteed or you get a second trip. During the tour, also see beautiful mansions on Snell Island and hundreds of pelicans at Pelican Island.

Starlite Cruises - starlitecruises.com Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg Lunch and dinner cruises are available aboard Starlite’s two vessels, the Majesty in Clearwater Beach and the Princess in St. Petersburg.

Naples Princess - naplesprincesscruises.com Naples This 105-foot luxury yacht takes you to see multimillion-dollar homes at Port Royal and lets you discover dolphins and other wildlife in the Gulf of Mexico. Lunch and sunset dinner cruises are also available.

Captiva Cruises - captivacruises.com Captiva Island Cruise to the barrier islands, accessible only by boat, to watch dolphins in the wild or collect seashells on Cayo Costa’s seashore. With a fleet of boats, traveling into the Gulf of Mexico to witness a beautiful Captiva sunset is a breeze.

Southeast Island Queen Cruises - islandqueencruises.com Miami During Florida day cruises, make sure to see the homes of the rich and famous when one of Island Queen’s yachts goes through “Millionaire Row.” If you miss one cruise, don’t fret – narrated tours along scenic Biscayne Bay begin every hour.

Yankee Freedom - yankeefreedom.com Key West The Yankee Freedom II brings you to the Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson. Learn about the natural park and surrounding area from the vessel’s onboard naturalist.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Eco-Boat Tours -  seewinter.com/sea-life-safari Clearwater Experience scenic, 90-minute eco-boat cruises that include searching for wild dolphins, sea birds and other marine life as CMA’s marine biologists narrate the tour of Clearwater Bay. Stop at Shell Island to collect seashells and take part in citizen science with a net pull and sea creature presentation aboard the Sea Life Safari tour.

PLACES TO REMEMBER

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE PARTNERS

Day Cruising

Day cruising is about enjoying one day or part of a day on the water without necessarily having a destination or a specific goal/activity in mind. That said, fishing , wakesurfing , sailing , gunkholing (like a Sunday drive exploring coves and beaches) and picnicking are perfect ways to cruise on a boat and they are fairly specific adventures. 

Are you hoping to go day cruising on a boat? Here’s what to expect, what to bring and what kind of boats are perfect for a great getaway on the water.

What to Bring Aboard for Day Cruising

Your preparation for a day on the water will depend on many factors including the size and type of boat, the anticipated activity if any, the weather and the length of your outing. Every boat needs the minimum safety items including:

• - Appropriately sized PFDs (lifejackets) for everyone aboard;
• - Signaling device;
• - Throwable flotation device;
• - Fire extinguishers.

Learn More: Boating Safety Checklist & Equipment List

Other safety regulations depend on the size/type of vessel and location (lakes/rivers/ocean, etc.). You'll also want to think about how you'll be spending your time on the water:

• - If you’ll be in the water, bring water toys, skis or boards. Make sure the boat has a ladder so you can get back aboard easily.
• - For fishing, bring rods, tackle, bait and a cooler with ice to keep your catch.
• - Bring your smartphone to connect your music with the onboard stereo or record the outing on video or in photos but bring a dry bag to keep electronics and your car keys dry.
• - For open boat cruising of more than a couple hours, snacks are good and you should always have plenty of drinking water and sunscreen.
• - Bring timed personal medications and seasickness medicine if you suspect you may be susceptible.

Best Day Cruising Boats

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Want to plan a boat picnic? Read this post to discover our top tips and boat picnic ideas to make your next event successful.

How to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day on a Boat

St. Patrick's Day is just around the corner, and you know what that means – time to celebrate! Looking for a way to do something a little different this year? How about a St. Patrick's Day boat cruise? We don't know about you, but we're always looking for an excuse to hit the water.

Charter Boat Tipping Etiquette: How to Tip Your Private Charter Captain

Chartering a boat is one of the best ways to spend a day on the water. But if it’s your first time, you’re probably curious about charter boat tipping etiquette. 

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Must Do 1 Day Cruises and Boat Trips in South Florida

View this post on Instagram Your chariot to adventure awaits! ⚓ A post shared by Dry Tortugas (@drytortugas) on Dec 11, 2018 at 12:44pm PST

Yankee Freedom

One of the most unforgettable day trips on the water you’ll ever take in Florida is a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park and historic Fort Jefferson aboard the Yankee Freedom. The Dry Tortugas sit just 70 miles west of Key West in the midst of the azure Gulf of Mexico waters. A secluded cluster of tiny islands with a Civil War fortress onsite, this magnificent natural attraction is one of the most unique places on earth—and the best way to visit is aboard the Yankee Freedom, the park’s official ferry. A boat tour unlike anything you’ve ever experienced, the Yankee Freedom’s high-speed, state-of-the-art catamaran, complete with expansive sundeck and spacious air-conditioned cabin, fresh water showers and restrooms, will transport you in comfort and treat you to gorgeous views, warm ocean breezes and the possibility of seeing bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and more. The Yankee Freedom’s onboard naturalist will also share fascinating facts about the area with you along the way. Spend the day discovering all the eco-wonders of the Dry Tortugas, including the powdery-soft sand beaches, snorkeling and swimming in the warm clear waters or just lazing under a swaying palm tree. Tour Fort Jefferson, which served as a prison during the Civil War. You’ll learn the intriguing history of the fort and get to see the cell that once held their most famous inmate, Samuel Mudd. A day of natural beauty and adventure awaits you on the Yankee Freedom.

Included with trip:

• Breakfast and Lunch (campers, arrival day only)
• Complimentary snorkeling equipment
• Beach walk, snorkel, swim, or just relax in the sun
• Fully narrated 45 minute tour of the fort
• Ticket includes entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson
• Awesome boat ride
• CHECK IN TIME: 7:00 am (campers 6:30 am)
• BOARDING TIME: 7:30 am
• DEPARTURE TIME: 8:00 am
• ARRIVE AT FORT JEFFERSON: 10:15 am*
• FORT JEFFERSON TOUR: 11:00 am
• LUNCH: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
• DEPART: 3:00 pm
• ARRIVE IN KEY WEST: 5:15 pm*

Island Queen Cruises

For those who enjoy celebrity spotting and witnessing the true lifestyles of the rich and famous, this Miami day cruise delivers in a big way. The double-decker, air-conditioned boat leaves Bayside and takes you past some of the most opulent mansions on Star and Hibiscus Islands. You’ll have the opportunity to see the homes of local celebrities like Gloria Estefan, Shaquille O’ Neal, Julio Iglesias and more, plus learn a little bit of history from the onboard guide. This 90-minute tour also treats you to views of the beautiful Miami skyline, Port of Miami, Miami Beach and Fisher Island.

Jetboat Miami

If you like action and your pace is anything but slow, this high-speed thrill ride is for you. Jetboat Miami offers a tour that includes speed, spins, twists, and turns and even getting a little wet. The sleek boat will transport you into some of the area’s exclusive enclaves and past the San Marco Islands, Star Island, Memorial Island and Fisher Island.

Tampa History Cruise

History abounds on this unique day cruise in Tampa. You’ll travel in the picturesque Tampa Harbor past museums, shipyards and million dollar homes and even have the opportunity to see the Pirate Ship Gabrielle and the lovely Plant Hotel up close. The tour guide shares fascinating facts about the city, including how Tampa grew from a small Spanish outpost to one of the fastest growing cities in Florida.

Tarpon Springs

Dolphin adventure island cruise.

Spend an afternoon learning about the famous Sponge Docks and watching the seas for dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, and other marine wildlife. This day cruise takes you along the Anclote River into the Gulf of Mexico and includes a narration from the captain about the history of Tarpon Springs. You’ll have a chance to see the restored Historic Anclote Lighthouse on Anclote Island when the boat docks, allowing time for a dip in the water and some shell hunting. There’s a cash bar onboard featuring a variety of cocktails including frosty margaritas, beer and wine and you’re welcome to bring along a picnic lunch.

St. Augustine/Jacksonville

Sea Serpent St. Johns River Sunset Safari

This evening tour takes you on a journey through the beautiful freshwater tributaries along the St. Johns River. Many guests have spotted a variety of wildlife during the tour including alligators, turtles, herons, bald eagles, wild boar, deer, manatees, egrets and more. The ideal way to see the sunset over the water, this tour is great for couples, groups, and families. It’s about two hours long and includes a ride through Trout Creek, Six Mile Creek and the Bayard Conservation Area. You’ll have the opportunity to view some of St. Augustine’s untouched beauty and gorgeous waterways.

Manatee Eco Boat Tour

Families and those who enjoy spotting marine animals will enjoy this special day tour out of Fort Myers. A smooth ride to little-known manatee hideouts, the Eco Boat Tour treats you to a look at these gentle sea cows in their natural habitat. Tours are for small groups and depart morning, midday and afternoon.

Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise

The Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise travels to Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, home to area manatees, dolphins, seabirds and more. An eco-tour that travels past rookery islands, mangrove islands and Lover’s Key State Park, the trip includes commentary from a certified Florida Naturalist so you can learn all about the ecosystems.

Manatee Queen Boat Tours

Grab the family or some fun-loving friends and head over to the Manatee Queen Boat Tour in Jupiter for an afternoon of sightseeing on the water. This laid-back tour transports you along the Atlantic Intracoastal and past many of Florida’s most luxurious estates on Jupiter Island. Snacks and beverages are available for sale onboard and you are welcome to bring along your own snacks and drinks.

Fort Lauderdale

Jungle queen riverboat cruise.

Sun, fun and balmy sea breezes are in store when you climb aboard the Jungle Queen in Fort Lauderdale. This guided three-hour sightseeing cruise takes you along the historic New River and past Millionaire’s Row, home to some of the area’s most luxurious homes and yachts. See wildlife, including birds and alligators, on Jungle Queen Tropical Isle. An on-board concession stand serves a variety of snacks and beverages. When looking for a day trip on the water for your Florida vacation, use this guide for some of the most popular vacation destinations in the state. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends or planning a romantic getaway, you’ll find there are excursions to suit everyone’s taste and budget. *Times may vary depending on weather

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• Travel Guide

What To Take On A Boat Day Trip

Published: November 15, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Drucill Cover

• Plan Your Trip

Planning Your Boat Day Trip

Embarking on a boat day trip can be an exciting adventure, whether you’re cruising along the coast or exploring remote islands. To make the most of your experience, careful planning is essential. Here are some key steps to consider when planning your boat day trip:

• Choose the Right Boat: Determine the type of boat that suits your needs and preferences. Whether it’s a motorboat, sailboat, or catamaran, consider factors such as size, amenities, and capacity to ensure a comfortable journey.
• Select the Destination: Research and select a destination that aligns with your interests. Whether you prefer serene beaches, snorkeling spots, or bustling harbors, choose a location that offers the activities and sights you desire.
• Check the Weather: Keep a close eye on weather forecasts to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions for your boat trip. Avoid embarking on days with predicted storms or strong winds, as it can pose risks to your safety.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Create an itinerary that outlines your desired activities and stops along the way. Consider the time needed for each activity, allowing for relaxation, exploration, and any other experiences you wish to have.
• Obtain Nautical Charts: Acquire nautical charts of the area you’ll be navigating. These charts provide valuable information about water depths, navigational aids, and potential hazards, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
• Check Required Permits: Some boating locations may require permits or licenses. Research and obtain any necessary permits in advance to avoid any unexpected complications on the day of your trip.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Before setting sail, inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary. Provide them with details of your destination, planned route, and expected time of return. This ensures someone is aware of your whereabouts in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

By properly planning your boat day trip, you can maximize your enjoyment and minimize any potential issues. Take the time to consider these important factors, and get ready to embark on a memorable adventure on the open water!

Safety Essentials to Bring

When heading out on a boat day trip, prioritizing safety is of utmost importance. Here are some essential items to bring to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Life Jackets: Always carry an appropriate number of life jackets for everyone on board. Make sure they are in good condition and properly fitted for each individual.
• First Aid Kit: Pack a well-stocked first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, seasickness medication, and any necessary prescription medications for your group.
• Emergency Flares and Whistle: These signaling devices are crucial for attracting attention in case of an emergency. Ensure they are easily accessible and in working condition.
• Fire Extinguisher: Have a fully charged and easily accessible fire extinguisher on board. Familiarize yourself with how to use it properly.
• Personal Floatation Devices: In addition to life jackets, consider bringing additional floatation devices such as pool noodles or inflatable rafts for added safety, especially if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Navigation Lights: If your boat will be operating after sunset, make sure you have proper navigation lights to ensure visibility to other vessels.
• Tool Kit: Bring along a basic tool kit that includes essentials like a knife, screwdriver, wrench, and duct tape. These tools can be helpful for performing minor repairs or adjustments.
• Extra Rope and Anchors: Having extra rope and anchors on board is essential for securing your boat properly, especially in case of unexpected weather conditions or if you plan to anchor at a specific spot.
• Communication Devices: Carry a fully charged cell phone and a marine VHF radio for communication purposes. Make sure you understand how to use them effectively in case of emergencies.
• Personal Locator Beacon: Consider investing in a personal locator beacon that can transmit a distress signal in case of a life-threatening situation. This can be a valuable asset in remote areas.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when on a boat day trip. By ensuring you have these essential safety items on board, you can enjoy your adventure with peace of mind, knowing that you are well-prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise.

Sun Protection Must-Haves

When spending a day out on the water, sun protection is crucial to keep yourself and your fellow boaters safe from harmful UV rays. Here are some sun protection essentials to bring on your boat day trip:

• Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
• Sunglasses: Invest in a good pair of polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare reflecting off the water. Look for sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.
• Wide-Brimmed Hat: Wear a wide-brimmed hat to provide shade for your face, head, and neck. This helps protect against sunburn and reduces the risk of heatstroke.
• Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs to shield them from direct sun exposure. Look for fabrics with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) for added sun protection.
• Sun Protective Gear: Consider bringing additional sun protective gear such as rash guards, sun sleeves, and UV-blocking swimwear for added coverage and protection.
• Umbrella or Shade Canopy: If your boat doesn’t have a built-in shade, bring along a beach umbrella or a portable shade canopy to create a cool retreat from the sun.
• Cooling Accessories: Pack cooling accessories like cooling towels or misting fans to help combat the heat and keep you comfortable during your boat day trip.
• Hydration: Remember to stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks to prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather.

Spending prolonged hours in the sun without proper protection can lead to sunburn, heatstroke, and long-term skin damage. By incorporating these sun protection must-haves into your boat day trip, you can enjoy your time on the water while safeguarding your health and well-being.

Comfort and Clothing for the Boat

When preparing for a boat day trip, it’s important to consider comfort and appropriate clothing to ensure an enjoyable experience. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Appropriate Footwear: Choose comfortable, non-slip footwear that is suitable for a boat environment. Opt for boat shoes or sandals with rubber soles to provide traction and prevent slips on wet surfaces.
• Layered Clothing: Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Mornings and evenings can be cooler, so having a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt on hand will help you stay comfortable.
• Swimwear: If you plan to take a dip in the water, wear your swimwear underneath your clothing for easy access. Pack a towel and a change of clothes to dry off and stay comfortable after swimming.
• Waterproof Bag or Dry Bag: Keep your valuables, electronics, and extra clothing items safe and dry by storing them in a waterproof bag or dry bag. This is especially important if you anticipate water splashes or rain.
• Comfortable Seating and Cushions: Enhance your comfort on board by bringing cushions or seat pads. This will provide extra padding and support during your boat journey.
• Bug Repellent: Depending on your location and the time of year, insects can be a nuisance. Remember to bring insect repellent to keep those pesky bugs at bay.
• Waterproof Sunshade: If your boat doesn’t have a built-in sunshade, consider bringing along a portable sunshade or umbrella to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
• Snacks and Drinks: Pack some light snacks and beverages to keep you energized and hydrated throughout the trip. Choose items that are easy to eat and won’t spoil quickly.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay eco-friendly by bringing a reusable water bottle to reduce waste and ensure you have access to fresh water throughout the day.

By considering comfort and appropriate clothing for your boat day trip, you can focus on enjoying the experience without any discomfort. Remember to dress in layers, wear suitable footwear, and pack essential items to keep you comfortable during your time on the water.

Navigation and Communication Tools

When venturing out on a boat day trip, having the right navigation and communication tools is essential for a safe and successful journey. Here are some tools to consider bringing on board:

• Marine GPS: A marine GPS device is crucial for accurate navigation on the water. It provides real-time positioning, charts, and waypoints, ensuring you stay on course and safely reach your destination.
• Compass: Alongside a GPS, having a compass on board is essential for basic navigation. In the event of GPS failure, a compass can help you accurately determine your direction and navigate back to shore.
• Chartplotter: A chartplotter integrated with your marine GPS allows for detailed mapping, plotting courses, and tracking your route. It provides valuable information about water depths, navigation aids, and potential hazards.
• Marine VHF Radio: A marine VHF radio is a critical communication tool for boaters. It allows you to communicate with other vessels, request assistance in emergencies, and receive important weather updates and safety information.
• Cell Phone or Satellite Phone: Carry a fully charged cell phone as a backup communication device. However, if you’re heading to a remote area with limited cellular coverage, consider bringing a satellite phone for reliable communication.
• Flashlight and Flares: In case of an emergency or unexpected nighttime navigation, have a powerful waterproof flashlight and emergency flares readily available for signaling and attracting attention.
• Anchor and Anchor Line: An anchor is essential for temporarily securing your boat when stopping during your trip. Ensure you have the appropriate anchor and enough anchor line to accommodate the depth of the waters you’ll be navigating.
• Whistle or Horn: A whistle or horn is a vital sound-producing device that can be used to attract attention or signal distress in situations where verbal communication may not be effective.
• Navigation Lights: If you plan to be out on the water after sunset or during low visibility conditions, ensure your boat is equipped with proper navigation lights. These lights enhance your vessel’s visibility to other boaters and prevent collisions.
• Extra Batteries and Chargers: Bring extra batteries and chargers for all your electronic devices to ensure they remain powered throughout your journey.

Before setting sail, familiarize yourself with how to properly use these navigation and communication tools. Having them on board will not only enhance your safety but also provide peace of mind as you navigate the waters on your boat day trip.

Entertainment and Activities on Board

While the main focus of a boat day trip is enjoying the water and beautiful surroundings, it’s also important to bring along some entertainment and plan activities to enhance the experience. Here are some ideas for entertainment and activities on board:

• Music and Speakers: Create a lively atmosphere on board by bringing a portable Bluetooth speaker or a marine-grade audio system. Prepare a playlist of your favorite tunes to enjoy while cruising.
• Water Toys: Pack inflatable tubes, water skis, paddleboards, or a kayak, depending on the size and capabilities of your boat. These water toys offer fun and exciting ways to explore and enjoy the water.
• Fishing Gear: If you enjoy fishing, bring along your fishing gear and bait. You might just reel in a delicious catch to enjoy later or engage in catch and release for a thrilling experience.
• Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Equipment: If you’re heading to a destination with clear waters and vibrant marine life, don’t forget to bring your snorkeling or scuba diving gear. Dive in and explore the underwater world beneath you.
• Board Games or Cards: Engage in some friendly competition by bringing along board games or a deck of cards. They’re a great way to spend time with family and friends while taking a break from the water activities.
• Binoculars: Pack a pair of binoculars to enhance your viewing experience. They can come in handy for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, or getting a closer look at points of interest along the coastline.
• Photography Equipment: Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful moments and stunning landscapes you encounter during your boat day trip. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof case or bag to protect your equipment from water splashes.
• Books or E-Readers: If you prefer a relaxing day on the boat, bring along your favorite books or load up your e-reader with novels, magazines, or informative guides to read and unwind.
• Unwind and Relax: Take the time to appreciate the tranquility of the open water. Enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat, soak up the sun, and let yourself relax and rejuvenate.

By incorporating entertainment and activities into your boat day trip, you can make the most of your time on the water, creating lasting memories and enjoying a variety of experiences. Choose activities that align with your interests and make the most of the opportunities available during your journey.

Food and Drinks for the Day Trip

Food and drinks are an essential part of any boat day trip, ensuring that you and your fellow passengers stay nourished and hydrated throughout the journey. Here are some tips for planning your meals and refreshments:

• Pack a Cooler: Bring a cooler filled with ice to keep your perishable food and beverages fresh throughout the day. Opt for a cooler with a tight seal to maintain the cool temperature.
• Snacks: Pack a variety of snacks such as fruits, granola bars, trail mix, and sandwiches. These portable snacks will provide you with energy during the trip and keep hunger at bay.
• Easy-to-Eat Meals: Prepare meals that are easy to eat on a boat, such as wraps, sandwiches, salads, or pasta salads. Avoid dishes that are messy or require heating.
• Finger Foods: Finger foods like chips, crackers, and vegetables with dip are convenient and require minimal preparation. They can be enjoyed easily while on board.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial during a day out on the water. Pack plenty of water and electrolyte-rich drinks to prevent dehydration. Avoid alcoholic beverages as they can dehydrate you further.
• Cool Drinks: Bring cold refreshments like canned or bottled beverages. Opt for drinks that are refreshing and hydrating, such as flavored water, sports drinks, or iced tea.
• Cutlery and Utensils: Don’t forget to pack disposable plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery for easy cleanup. Opt for reusable options to minimize waste if possible.
• Special Considerations: Take into account any dietary restrictions or allergies of your group members. Pack alternative options, such as gluten-free snacks or vegan-friendly foods, to accommodate everyone’s needs.
• Trash Bags: Bring extra trash bags to properly dispose of any waste generated during the day. Leave no trace and take all trash with you to maintain the cleanliness of the boat and the surrounding environment.

Remember to pack enough food and drinks to last the duration of your boat day trip. Plan for a bit of extra food and beverages in case your trip lasts longer than expected or if you encounter unexpected delays. With proper meal planning, you can enjoy delicious treats and stay nourished throughout your adventure on the water.

Medications and First Aid Kit

Bringing a well-stocked first aid kit and necessary medications on your boat day trip is essential to handle minor injuries and address any medical needs that may arise. Here’s what you should include in your first aid kit and medications:

• Basic First Aid Supplies: Pack bandages, adhesive tape, gauze pads, sterile wipes, antiseptic ointment, and scissors. These supplies can be used to clean and dress minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
• Seasickness Medication: If you or anyone in your group is prone to motion sickness, bring seasickness medication. Consider consulting with a healthcare professional to choose the most suitable option for you.
• Pain Relievers: Include over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These can help ease headaches or minor aches and pains that may occur during the trip.
• Allergy Medication: If anyone in your group has known allergies, bring appropriate allergy medication such as antihistamines or epinephrine auto-injectors. Be prepared for insect stings, food allergies, or other allergic reactions.
• Motion Sickness Bands or Patches: Consider bringing motion sickness bands or patches as an alternative to medication. These can be effective in relieving motion sickness symptoms.
• Prescription Medications: If anyone in your group requires prescription medications, ensure an adequate supply is available for the duration of the trip. Keep them in their original labeled containers.
• Emergency Contact Information: Include a list of emergency contact numbers, including local Coast Guard or emergency services, in your first aid kit. This allows for quick access to crucial information in case of a medical emergency.
• Tweezers and Insect Sting Relief: Pack tweezers to remove splinters or ticks. Also, include insect sting relief products in case of bee or wasp stings.
• Sunburn Relief: Include aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion to soothe sunburned skin. It’s important to treat any sunburns promptly to prevent further discomfort.
• Medication Organizer: Use a pill organizer or separate containers to keep medications organized and easily accessible. Label them clearly to ensure proper dosage and to avoid any confusion.

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the contents of the first aid kit and their proper usage. Additionally, ensure that everyone on the boat is aware of the location of the first aid kit and how to use its contents in case of an emergency. By being prepared with the necessary medications and a well-equipped first aid kit, you can handle minor injuries or medical issues and ensure the safety and well-being of all on board during your boat day trip.

Additional Items to Consider

In addition to the essentials mentioned earlier, there are a few more items you might want to consider bringing on your boat day trip. These items can enhance your overall experience and provide additional convenience and safety:

• Waterproof Bags or Containers: Store important documents, electronics, and personal belongings in waterproof bags or containers to protect them from water splashes or unexpected rain.
• Extra Clothing and Towels: Pack extra clothing, including swimsuits, cover-ups, and dry clothes, in case you need to change. Bringing extra towels is also useful for drying off after swimming or for lounging on the boat.
• Binoculars: Bring a pair of binoculars to enhance your viewing experience. They can be handy for birdwatching, observing marine life, or getting a closer look at points of interest along the shoreline.
• Portable Phone Charger: Keep your electronic devices charged with a portable phone charger. This is particularly useful if you plan to use your phone for navigation, music, or capturing memories.
• Cash and Cards: Bring some cash and a few credit/debit cards for any unexpected expenses or to purchase items from local vendors or marinas along the way.
• Camera or GoPro: Capture the highlights of your boat day trip with a camera or GoPro. This allows you to document the stunning views, exciting activities, and memorable moments during your adventure.
• Bluetooth Speaker: If your boat doesn’t have a built-in audio system, consider bringing a portable Bluetooth speaker to enjoy music or enhance the ambiance during your journey.
• Extra Fuel: If you’re venturing to a remote location or planning an extended trip, bring extra fuel in appropriate containers to ensure you have enough to return safely.
• Fishing License: If you plan to fish, make sure you have a valid fishing license for the area you’ll be exploring. Check the local regulations and obtain the necessary license in advance.
• Waterproof Watch: Keep track of time and ensure you stay on schedule with a waterproof watch. This can be helpful for adhering to your planned itinerary and ensuring a smooth day on the water.

These additional items can add convenience, safety, and entertainment to your boat day trip. Consider which ones are suitable for your adventure and pack accordingly.

Planning and preparing for a boat day trip is crucial for a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience on the water. By considering the various factors discussed in this guide, you can ensure that you have everything you need to make the most of your adventure. From safety essentials to sun protection, comfort and clothing, navigation tools, entertainment options, and even food and drinks, each aspect plays an important role in enhancing your excursion.

Remember to prioritize safety by bringing necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, a first aid kit, and communication devices. Sun protection must-haves, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats, should not be overlooked to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays.

Comfort and appropriate clothing will contribute to a pleasant experience on board. Consider the activities you plan to undertake, such as swimming, fishing, or exploring, and pack accordingly. Navigation and communication tools are essential for ensuring a smooth journey, keeping you on course and connected with others in case of emergencies.

Entertainment and activities will add to the enjoyment of your boat day trip. Whether it’s snorkeling, fishing, playing games, or simply relaxing and enjoying the views, having options for entertainment will make the trip more fulfilling.

Finally, don’t forget to pack necessary food and drinks, as well as any required medications and a well-stocked first aid kit. Being prepared for emergencies and having sustenance readily available will ensure your well-being throughout the day.

By considering these various aspects and preparing properly, you can embark on a fantastic boat day trip filled with adventure and enjoyment. So, gather your supplies, plan your itinerary, and get ready for a remarkable experience on the open water!

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Clearwater Boats Tours

A Boat Day has a convenient location in the famous Clearwater, Florida. Four fun boats are docked at our Marina in downtown Clearwater area, minutes from Clearwater Beach.  Our Clearwater boat location is amazing if you are staying in Tampa, St. Pete, Orlando as you MISS the Clearwater island traffic and crazy parking issues to get to us.

If you are staying in Clearwater Beach we have several spots where we can pick you up by boat, many locations are walkable from most anywhere on Clearwater Beach.  We can recommend a service such as Free Beach Rides that operates for tip money only!  If your Clearwater Beach hotel or Airbnb has a floating boat dock we may be able to pick you up right where you are staying.

We do our best to match your family vacation destination to a pickup location that is mutually convenient as well as time & cost effective.   Prior to your Clearwater boat tour, our Trip Coordinator will confirm the pickup location with you and send you the address (pin).

Must-Have Items for a Boat Day Trip in Sarasota, Florida

• Boat Concierge Services
• October 14, 2023

Are you planning a boat day trip? Whether you’re headed out for a relaxing day on the water or an adventurous fishing expedition, it’s essential to be prepared with all the necessary items. In this article, we’ll discuss the must-have items that will ensure your boat day trip is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.

From essential safety gear and navigation tools to sun protection, snacks, and entertainment, our boat concierge service have got you covered. Embark on your maritime journey with confidence, knowing that you’re equipped with the knowledge of what it takes to make your boat day trip a seamless and delightful experience provided by the benefits of a boat concierge service .

Safety Essentials For Boat Day Trip

Ensure you have all the must-have safety essentials for your boat day trip, like a life jacket and a first aid kit. Life jackets are crucial when it comes to boating safety. They are designed to keep you afloat in case of an emergency and can be the difference between life and death. Make sure to have enough life jackets on board for every passenger, and ensure they are properly fitted and in good condition.

In addition to life jackets, having a well-stocked first aid kit is vital for any boat day trip. Accidents can happen anytime, especially when you’re out on the water. A comprehensive first aid kit should comprise bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, tweezers, and pain relievers. It’s important to regularly check your first aid kit before each boat trip to make sure all supplies are up-to-date and replenished if necessary.

By being prepared with these safety essentials, and with a professional captain , you can enjoy your boat day trip with peace of mind, knowing that you have taken the necessary precautions for any unforeseen circumstances. Remember, safety should always be a primary priority when out on the water.

Comfort Items

Bringing some cozy cushions and blankets will ensure a comfortable boat day experience. As you embark on your boat trip, having the right items is important to make your journey enjoyable and relaxing. Here are four comfort essentials that should be at the top of your list:

• Beach Towels: Whether you’re lounging on the deck or taking a dip in the water, having beach towels onboard is essential for drying off and keeping comfortable. Opt for quick-drying towels that are lightweight and easy to pack.
• Sunscreen: Spending a day on the water means being exposed to the sun’s rays for an extended period. Protect yourself from harmful UV rays by applying sunscreen regularly throughout the day. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a strong SPF rating to ensure maximum protection.
• Cushions: Boat seats can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially if you’re planning on spending long hours aboard. Bringing along some cushions will provide much-needed support and cushioning, making your seating experience more enjoyable.
• Blankets: Even on warm days, having blankets onboard is always a good idea for added comfort and coziness. They can come in handy during cooler evenings or when you want to nap while gently rocking with the boat’s motion.

With these comfort essentials packed, you can fully relax and enjoy your boat tours in Sarasota without any discomfort or worries about sunburns or chilly nights. So don’t forget to bring along beach towels, sunscreen, cushions, and blankets – they’ll make all the difference in ensuring a pleasant boating experience!

Food and Drinks

Planning your food and drinks properly is vital to having an enjoyable and comfortable boat day trip. Here are some tips to consider when preparing your food and beverages:

• Cooler Essentials: Use a high-quality cooler with ample ice to keep your drinks and perishable foods cold. Consider using ice packs instead of loose ice to avoid any water leakage.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential, especially when you’re out in the sun and potentially engaging in physical activities. Pack plenty of bottled water and electrolyte-rich drinks to replenish fluids lost through sweating.
• Snacks: Opt for a mix of snacks that are easy to handle and won’t spoil quickly. Think about options like pre-cut fruits, nuts, trail mix, granola bars, and single-serving packs of crackers or chips.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Prepare sandwiches or wraps with fillings that won’t become soggy over time. Deli meats, cheeses, and veggies work well. Pack them in airtight containers to sustain their freshness.
• Condiments and Spreads: Consider packing condiments and spreads separately to prevent sandwiches from becoming too soggy. You can use small, spill-proof containers for mayo, mustard, ketchup, etc.

By planning and selecting a variety of snacks and drinks that cater to different tastes, you’ll ensure a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience during your boat day trip. Just remember to prioritize safety, hygiene, and environmental responsibility throughout your journey.

Entertainment and Recreation

Combining card games, water sports, and outdoor activities will make for a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Here’s a breakdown of your plan and some tips to enhance the entertainment and recreation on your boat day trip:

• Card Games: Opting for a deck of cards is a fantastic idea. Card games are adaptable and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Classics like Poker, Rummy, Crazy Eights, and Go Fish can keep the competitive spirit alive and create a fun atmosphere on the boat. Remember to bring a waterproof container for the cards to ensure they stay safe for any accidental splashes.
• Water Sports: Engaging in water sports like wakeboarding, tubing, and waterskiing is a great way to get everyone’s adrenaline pumping. Make sure to have the necessary equipments, such as life jackets, and safety ropes, and ensure that the participants are aware of the safety guidelines and precautions. Consider having an experienced individual or guide onboard to help beginners with these activities.
• Outdoor Games: Classic outdoor games like frisbee, cornhole (bean bag toss), and beach volleyball are excellent choices for creating a lively and competitive atmosphere. Ensure you have enough space on the boat’s deck to set up these games and establish some basic rules. You might want to pack extra frisbees and bean bags in case some get lost in the water.
• Music and Atmosphere: Enhance the overall experience by creating a lively atmosphere with some background music that everyone can enjoy. Create playlists in advance or let different people take turns in being the “DJ” on the boat.
• Capture the Memories: Carry a waterproof camera or smartphone case to capture fun moments during water sports, outdoor games, and card games. These photos will serve as great mementos of the day.

With a well-rounded plan that includes card games, water sports, and outdoor activities, your boat day trip will surely be a hit. Enjoy the company of your friends and family while making lasting memories and enjoying the beauty of the waters and the outdoors.

Communication and Navigation

Now that you have taken care of your entertainment and recreational needs for your boat day trip, let us focus on the essential aspects of communication and navigation. These are crucial elements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience out on the water.

Here are essential items for communication and navigation during your boat day trip:

• Marine radio – A reliable means of communication with other boaters and emergency services.
• GPS navigation system – An indispensable tool for accurate positioning and efficient route planning.
• Charts or maps – Supplementary aids to complement the GPS navigation system.
• Compass – A traditional navigational instrument that serves as a backup in case electronic devices fail.

With these crucial communication and navigation tools at hand, you can confidently sail away knowing that you are well-prepared for any situation that may arise during your day trip.

The Bottom Line

Proper preparation is vital for a safe and enjoyable boat day trip. Essential items like life jackets, first aid kits, and sun protection ensure safety and comfort. Adequate food, drinks, and entertainment add to the experience. Communication tools like marine radios and waterproof phones are critical. With these in place, you can embark on a worry-free water adventure.

At the Boat Concierge , we understand the importance of a well-prepared boat day trip. Contact us today to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment on the water. Explore our day trip services and let us make your maritime adventure truly unforgettable.

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• Kayaking Sea Caves
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The CIEx Difference

Celebrating 32 years – since 1991.

Our founders were some of the first to bring kayakers into sea caves in the 90s, we were the first to lead snorkeling tours in kelp forests, and the first AND ONLY to operate an all islands boat trip within Channel Islands National Park.

PROFESSIONAL CREW MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Channel Islands Expeditions is a guide-owned and operated company – we have been leading trips at the islands since the mid-90s’.

CUSTOM DIVE AND EXPEDITION FLEET

Our fleet of dive and expedition vessels offer guests a safe and comfortable way to experience Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary

CIEx TRIPS ARE THE PERFECT BLEND OF ADVENTURE AND SIGHTSEEING

Offshore islands present both unique opportunities for thrill seeking AND wildlife viewing. We appreciate both and we hope you will too! Each day at the Channel Islands is different and we take full advantage of the season, weather, and wildlife throughout the year.

SEE MORE, DO MORE, PLAN LESS…

If you are planning your trip to the Channel Islands National Park and overwhelmed with logistics and planning… ferries, campsites, tours, etc. you’ve come to the right place. All CIEx trips start and stop from the same land based location and we’ll take care of everything else you need!

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Trips from channel islands harbor, oxnard.

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Be sure to check your confirmation email before leaving for your trip, these harbors are 45 minutes from each other!

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• EPIC Sea Cave Combo Day Trip Downwind Kayaking – Kelp Forest Snorkeling Departs from Oxnard Harbor on the 54′ SUNFISH
• Painted Cave Combo Day Trip Downwind Kayaking – Modified Snorkeling Departs from Santa Barbara on the 64′ TRUTH
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We are a local, family-owned company that employs professional crew with decades of experience. As owner/operators we are engaged in our daily operations. It takes a lot of human power, planning, and training to operate a safe and sound fleet and team, and we take pride in the expeditions we run.

Traveling to the Channel Islands from the mainland is a distance ranging from 11 to 45 miles (one way) depending on where we depart from and where we go. This journey consumes both time and fuel. Crew and fuel costs account for 50% of the cost of our operations. We operate in US Waters and our vessels are inspected semi-annually by the United States Coast Guard. 

In 2022 we underwent 3 USCG full-vessel inspections (top and bottom side) with ZERO MAJOR* deficiencies and one vessel with ZERO overall deficiencies (TRUTH). Our commitment to running the safest small boat expedition fleet in the world requires resources, and our safety record indicates our resources are going to the correct places. 

Here’s a simple breakdown of the costs per ticket:

The number of passengers on the vessel does affect this breakdown, and so if you’re choosing an expedition or a summer camp with a 24 passenger load, this is why your ticket cost is higher than a full capacity expedition.

Thank you for understanding and supporting these amazing California Expeditions!

CIEx Family

*Minor deficiencies must be corrected within 30 days, major deficiencies must be corrected before carrying passengers again. We correct minor deficiencies as soon as possible.

Expedition Blue Season Pass – 2023 Season

• 2 redemptions for any “Boat Trip Only” ticket per month
• 1 redemption for any “Kayak Expedition” ticket per month
• 1 redemption for any “Snorkeling Expedition” ticket per month
• 4 redemptions for “Santa Barbara Sunset Boat Cruise” per month
• 10% discount on the “Ultimate 5 Day”
• 10% discount on the “Ocean Explorers Liveaboard Camp”

Value – over $3,000 for the season!

Cost – only $399/person/year.

Only Sold Through May 1, 2023

Cortes Bank

Cortes Bank is a chain of underwater pinnacles and plateaus located 137 nautical miles (nm) South by Southeast from Santa Barbara and about 40 nm Southwest of San Clemente Island. Bishop Rock is one of the peaks in the underwater mountain chain that rises to within 6 feet of the surface and is marked by a nearby warning buoy. It was named for the clipper ship Stillwell S. Bishop that struck the rock in 1855 and with a patched hull limped its way back to San Francisco. Nine Fathom spot is about 4.5 miles Northwest of Bishop Rock and rises to about 60 feet below the surface. Both are noted scuba diving locations featuring clear water and abundant sea life.

Scuba diving Cortes Bank with Channel Islands Expeditions is a truly unique experience. It is an open water seamount where currents sweep clean ocean water over the spot and invertebrates cling to the rocks. Sea palms ( Postelsia palmaeformis ) fixed to the rocks provides shelter for smaller fish and invertebrates that hide amongst its fronds. Large clusters of purple hydrocorals can be seen throughout the area as well as tuna, yellowtail, large schools of baitfish, sea lions, and occasional sharks. Large black and white sea bass are common sights as well California sheep head. Lobster divers continue to make this spot a top priority to visit during season and free divers frequent the area in the spring and summer for yellowtail, white sea bass, and tuna. Wreck diving can also be done at this location on the  Abalonia .

Diving at Cortes Bank can be spectacular but anyone who ventures out there needs to be mentally and physically prepared. On any open ocean dive location, one needs to understand that ocean swells and currents are normally present. A flat calm day is rare. When you get good conditions at “The Bank” it will be a dive you will not forget. Sometimes it can be frustrating to get to the bank, but when you do, it can be well worth the effort.

In 1969 a group of promoters bought the World War II surplus troop ship SS  Jalisco , renamed her USS  Abalonia , and sailed her to the bank intending to sink her in shallow water to form a tax-free island nation and shellfish processing plant. But during the sinking, rough seas broke a mooring line and pushed her into deeper water. Another company planned to build a platform on the bank and form a nation called ‘Taluga,’ but the US government declared that the bank was part of the continental shelf and was US territory. The wreck of the  Abalonia  today lies in three pieces in about 30 to 40 feet of water. Now, only scuba divers and the vibrant marine life are citizens of this almost-nation.

On November 2, 1985, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS  Enterprise  struck Cortes Bank about one mile east of Bishop Rock during exercises, putting a 40-foot gash in her outer hull and damaging a propeller. She continued operations then went into dry dock at Hunter’s Point Shipyard in San Francisco for repairs.

Tanner Bank

Tanner Bank is a chain of underwater pinnacles and plateaus located 120 nautical miles (nm) south by southeast of Santa Barbara, California, and 35 miles West by Southwest of San Clemente Island This bank rises within 80 feet of the surface and is considered one of the best advanced open water dive locations on the California coast. Like Cortes Banks, this seamount is open ocean with exposure to wind, current, and swell. Timing is everything when it comes to a successful day of diving this spot.

Scuba diving with Channel Islands Expeditions at Tanner Bank offers no protection from the weather so anchoring overnight is truly rare. Diving the bank is generally done on a multiple day liveaboard trip when you can take advantage of a weather window and dash out for a day. This dive location is so far offshore and exposed to the elements, so a diver can get a true feeling of open ocean diving that you cannot get next to land.

Under most circumstances this is considered advanced diving. It is deep and there can be current and surge, but the payoff can be huge. Like any other open ocean dive spot, you must be willing to roll the dice and see what Mother Nature will dish out.

This is an open water seamount, so currents sweep clean ocean water over the spot. You’ll find that everything that lives here clings tightly to the rocks. Palm kelp fixed to the rocks provides shelter for smaller fish and sea life that hide amongst its fronds. Large clusters of purple hydrocorals can be seen throughout the area as well as tuna, yellowtail, large schools of baitfish, sea lions, and occasional sharks. Lobster divers have scored well in this location at times and many a sea story have been written once aboard the Truth and Vision.

Santa Catalina Island

After Alcatraz, Santa Catalina Island is probably the best known of any of California’s islands. This island’s proximity to Los Angeles transformed it into a popular tourist destination, evidenced by its one million visitors each year. The island is 22 miles long and eight miles across at its greatest width. The highest point on the island is Mt. Orizaba 2,126 feet. The island was widely developed as a resort by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. Now, ninety percent of the island is owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, with the remainder of the island under the ownership of private entities.

The island is a rugged terrain of ridges and canyons with a few valleys inland and on its coastal fringes. The island is a semi-arid with only 12 inches of rainfall each year, though the marine climate does moderate temperatures during the summer and winter. The majority of the terrain here is characterized by chapparal vegetation with pine forest interspersed in canyons and at higher elevations.

Catalina Island is well known for its calm, clear, and warm waters. Even though Catalina is the most populated dive site of any other Channel Island, it is still sought out by scuba divers around the globe. Any trip with Channel Islands Expeditions is sure to encounter verdant kelp forest full of garibaldi, yellowtail, kelp bass, white seabass, giant black sea bass, and leopard sharks, as well as many other intriguing species. Photography and sightseeing are especially good in these clear waters, though free divers enjoy the possibility of spearing yellowtail and white seabass. Channel Islands Expeditions makes this destination part of its itinerary on the southern islands multi-day dive excursions, mostly during the summer months.

Scenic coastlines and warm waters make for the perfect opportunity to paddle, swim, and snorkel away an afternoon in beautiful surroundings. Your expedition leader will choose amongst the variety of sheltered coastal paddling opportunities that may present themselves on an adventure to Catalina Island with Channel Islands Expeditions.

There are many hiking trails along Catalina Island. Beach walking is allowed for anyone, but a permit is required for any back country travel. Permits can be acquired through the Catalina Island Conservancy. A point of pride for the island is the Trans-Catalina Trail, a recently finished 37.2-mile track that spans from Avalon on the east end of the island, past the isthmus, and ending at Starlight Beach on the west end.

Human History

Archaeological evidence shows Catalina was occupied by ancient cultures at least as far back as 6,800 years ago. The most recent native peoples to occupy the island were of the Tongva culture, whose languages and traditions were distinct from the Chumash of the northern Channel Islands. The Tongva referred to the island as “ pimu ” and to those that lived there as “ pimuvit .” Large settlements dotted the coastline of  pimu , and the pimuvit were renowned for the quarrying and trading of soapstone, which they excelled in carving.

The island would be discovered on Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s foundational voyage of exploration in 1542. The colonization of California by the Spanish brought about the swift disintegration of the Tongva people, including those that resided on Santa Catalina Island. Over the years, the island would change hands and small ranchos were established, but it was not until the turn of the 20th century that anyone would have designs on turning Catalina Island into a tourist destination. A real estate developer from Michigan named George Shatto created the settlement that would become Avalon and built its first hotel and pier.

William Wrigley Jr. acquired the majority of the Catalina Island Company in 1919, when he bought the island as an investment, but was so enamored by it he decided to keep it and develop the island so as to make it accessible to anyone that might like to visit. Wrigley subsequently, invested millions of dollars in the island, building and modernizing utilities and buildings in and around the now famous city of Avalon. He made it the spring training location for the Chicago Cubs built the iconic Catalina Casino building in 1929. The Wrigleys later donated 42,000 acres of land to the Catalina Island Conservancy for preservation.

Natural History

Santa Catalina Island’s diversity in flora and fauna is second to only Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands chain. Its proximity to the outflows of the Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and Santa Ana river basins opens the island up to a higher probability of species “rafting” over to the beaches of Catalina. This naturally leads to isolation and speciation, and as a result, Catalina is home to five native land mammals: the Santa Catalina Island Fox ( Urocyon littoralis catalinae ) being the most well-known among them. It is home to a diverse array of endemic birds, reptiles, insects, and plants. Interestingly, it is the only Channel Island to have a native rattlesnake population.

DDT, a pesticide that was outlawed in 1972 wreaked havoc on California’s marine ecosystem and was especially consequential for the island’s native population of Bald eagles. DDT was absorbed by the birds’ major prey, fish, and then ingested by the eagles. It caused the eagles to lay eggs with weakened shells that cracked under the adults’ weight during incubation. DDT poisoning eventually extirpated the Bald eagle from California’s Channel Islands. The Catalina Island Conservancy and the Institute for Wildlife Studies (IWS) have been working in a long-standing relationship to restore Bald eagles to the island for decades. To assist the eagles, IWS biologists began retrieving the fragile eggs, hatching them off-site in incubators and returning healthy chicks to the nests, where the parents accepted them back and raised them. In 2007, DDT levels had finally decreased enough to allow bald eagles to successfully hatch eggs in the wild, when five eagle chicks hatched naturally – the first time an eagle had successfully hatched in over 50 years! By 2009, all nests on Catalina were left to natural hatching and incubation, and in 2014 and 2020 four more Bald eagle chicks hatched and fledged in nests around the island.

A herd of American Bison were supposedly first imported in 1924 for the silent film version of Catalina Island resident Zane Grey’s western novella, “The Vanishing American,” still roam the island. Over the decades, the bison herd grew to as many as 600 individuals, though the Catalina Island Conservancy concluded that a population of 150-200 individuals would reduce the impact of these non-native animals on the native flora and fauna to a sufficient degree. The herd was managed to the point where only 100 animals remained in 2020. To bolster the herd’s genetics, the Catalina Island Conservancy introduced two pregnant females in 2020.

SANTA BARBARA ISLAND

Santa Barbara Island (639 acres) is 1.67 miles across at its longest point and lies 73 nautical miles (nm) Southeast of Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara Island is the smallest of all of California’s Channel Islands and the southern-most member of the Channel Islands National Park. Like most of the Channel Islands, it can be seen from the mainland on exceptionally clear days usually in winter, though the island’s profile is markedly lower than those of its bigger counterparts. The highest peak on the Santa Barbara Island is Signal Hill, at 634 feet. Despite its volcanic composure of Miocene basalts, Santa Barbara Island is not a volcano. The steep wave-cut cliffs of its shoreline indicate that erosion is still in its formative processes; this is one of the younger Channel Islands. Signs of a rising and falling ocean are marked into the basalt cliffs. Six wave-cut marine terraces can be found, an indication of both changes in sea level as well as tectonic uplift and subsidence (called porpoising). A 130 ft. arch dominates the aptly named Arch Point on the northeast corner of the island. Extensive colonies of birds reside on the volcanic cliffs of Santa Barbara Island as well as the two nearby offshore rocks: Shag Rock off the northerly shore (1 acre), and Sutil Island off the southwest end (12 acres). The steep cliffs and isolation from mainland predators provide safe breeding sites for thousands of sea birds. Santa Barbara Island, although small by any standard, boasts an impressive diversity in its habitats, with a few narrow rocky beaches, six canyons, and a badlands area.

Santa Barbara Island is known for its large rookery where you can spend hours diving with sea lions. Photographers get more opportunities to photograph these animals up close here than any Channel Island. The playful, curious pups will pose and frolic in front of a diver’s lens as long as one can stay in the water.

Diving Santa Barbara Island with Channel Islands Expeditions will take you to a host of incredible sites around the island, including the famous undersea “Arch.” The top of the reef just breaks the surface at low tide and the bottom of the arch lies in 40 feet of water. One of the more unique underwater arches in the world it makes the perfect backdrop for photographers. In addition to the “Arch,” there are many offshore pinnacles that are home to shear walls along with some of the largest clusters of purple hydrocoral found anywhere.

Santa Barbara has long been a prime destination for spearfishing. Warm southern currents coupled with lush kelp beds make this island attract a wealth of game fish. Calico bass, white sea bass, yellowtail, and an occasional tuna are among the species that can be found in the waters surrounding this island. As with all Channel Islands, a healthy spiny lobster population makes this a favorite destination during season.

Santa Barbara Island can offer some of the best scuba diving found in Southern California but if conditions are rough there are not many places to go.

Similar in many ways to Anacapa Island, kayaking Santa Barbara Island offers the perfect setting for this water sport. Weather permitting, your expedition leader may decide to attempt a complete circumnavigation of Santa Barbara Island. Wind and swell can be a factor, so attempting this trip is best done on one of Channel Islands Expeditions multi-day adventures. Kayaking long distances with a support vessel offers an added layer of safety for an unforgettable journey around this hidden gem of the Pacific.

Hiking on Santa Barbara Island will provide you with one of the most remote island hiking experiences of any of the Channel Islands. Don’t be fooled, the steep incline of this island can offer a challenge to just about anyone, but just beyond that you will find five miles of hiking trails with gentle rolling hills and breathtaking panoramic ocean views.

Though is thought to have never been permanently inhabited, Santa Barbara Island may have played a crucial role in the lives of the island peoples who occupied the surrounding Channel Islands for well over 10,000 years. Archeological evidence suggests that Santa Barbara Island may have been a convenient stopover on inter-island trade routes, a testament to its central location in the Channel Islands chain. The rich marine life found here may have drawn people to seasonally harvest the shores of this island for shellfish, seals, and fish. Recent studies indicate this may have begun about 4,000 years ago.

The first European visitor to the Channel Islands in 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer, made no mention of this island. Sixty years later, the island was named by Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino, who visited the island on December 4, 1602, the feast day dedicated to Santa Barbara. The island was infrequently visited in subsequent years, owning largely to its sparse vegetation and lack of a reliable water source. Santa Barbara Island did play host to an assemblage of seal hunters, squatters, fishermen, and the occasional whaling ship off its shores.

A few notable individuals eked out a living here, chief among them the family of Alvin Hyder. After a winning bid of $250 in 1916, Hyder and his family assumed ownership of the island and were the first to establish a residence of any permanence there. Hard work and a constant struggle to maintain a supply of fresh water were trademark features of a tough existence on this island. Santa Barbara Island would become a part of the Channel Islands National Monument in 1938 and was utilized as Coastal Lookout Station during WWII. Santa Barbara Island became part of the Channel Islands National Park upon its establishment in 1980.

Santa Barbara Island is home to a large sea lion rookery and seabird nesting colonies, including three species of storm-petrel, three species of cormorant, and the once-endangered California brown pelican. It is also home to the largest breeding colony for the Scripps’s Murrelet, a threatened seabird species. Scripps’s murrelet is listed as vulnerable, and is mainly threatened by oil spills, as the population exists in such a small area and is adjacent to the heavily trafficked shipping lanes that connect to the Port of Los Angeles. Spring rains bring out the flowering plants, such as the Giant coreopsis, the endemic Santa Barbara Island live-forever (Dudleya traskiae), shrubby buckwheat, sea blite, and an annual poppy. There is a visitor contact station and museum on the island with exhibits, dioramas, and murals of the natural and cultural resources.

San Nicholas Island

San Nicolas Island is the most remote of California’s Channel Islands lying 78 nautical miles (nm) south by southeast from Santa Barbara and 53 miles from the nearest coastline. Rising out of the rolling Pacific swells, the 14,500 acre (23 square miles) island is defined by wave cut terraces and windswept, grassy hills. It is currently controlled and operated as a weapons testing and training facility by the United States Navy. The island has a small airport and the several buildings supporting the naval operation are affectionately referred to as ‘Nictown.’ Landing on the island is strictly prohibited and one of the offshore water areas is restricted from transiting or anchoring.

Channel Islands Expeditions travels out to San Nicolas Island during the summer and early fall to dive the iconic Begg Rock and some of the island’s nearshore reefs. Begg Rock is a small rock lying almost 8 miles to the west from the island and it is one of California’s most pristine dive locations. This is open ocean diving so wind, swell, and currents can make this a difficult area to scuba dive. When the conditions are right, this dive will not be forgotten. Shear walls covered in corynactis anemones paint this dive in a rainbow of colors. In the fall, the island itself is a popular lobster diving area when they are in season. Its remote location means that a trip to San Nicolas implies a chance of encountering unstable weather. A day of unfavorable conditions can result in tough diving in this open ocean environment. However, or those up for the adventure, a good day of weather will result in one of the most unique and unforgettable dive experiences you can have at the Channel Islands.

No kayaking is available due to a mandatory 300-yard distance from shore regulation.

No island hiking available as landing is prohibited.

San Nicolas Island shows signs of habitation that date back over 10,000 years. The native peoples that most recently occupied the island are referred to as “Nicholeños,” who had their own distinctive language and culture, though they were probably related to the Tongva people who lived on Santa Catalina Island. The name the Tongva have for San Nicholas is ‘Haraashngna.’ We do not know much of the language or history of the Nicholeños, as the large majority of their population was evacuated and assimilated into the California mission system. Their language became extinct soon after.

The person who would become the most famous resident of San Nicholas Island was left behind by the Franciscan padres who took the rest of the Nicholeños to the California missions. Juana Maria, as she would be known (though her real name was never found out), was the last surviving member of the Nicholeños. She lived alone on the island for 18 years, subsisting on shellfish and seal fat from the Northern elephant seals. Captain George Nidever found Juana Maria on the island in 1853, living in a crude whalebone hut. She was brought back to Santa Barbara, and was the object of much curiosity, becoming well-known for the beautiful songs she would sing. This would be short-lived though, as she died only seven weeks after her arrival to the mainland. Her story was the basis for Scott O’Dell’s Newbery Medal-winning 1961 novel Island of the Blue Dolphins. Academic curiosity about the “Lone Woman of San Nicholas Island” still persists, and after a 20-year search, archaeologists may have uncovered the cave she lived in in 2012.

The ecological diversity of San Nicholas was heavily impacted by sheep ranching for a period of over 80 years. The sheep removed much of the native ground cover until their removal in 1943. This in turn increased the rates of erosion and promoted non-native plant species to spread. Despite the degradation, three endemic plants are found on the island:  Astragalus traskiae ,  Eriogonum grande tamorum , and  Lomatium insulare .

The isolated beaches of San Nicholas are anything but lonely during the breeding season of one of the world’s largest seals. The Northern elephant seal ( Mirounga angustirostris ) hauls out here to breed each season, with an estimated 23,000 individuals occupying the beachfront to mate and give birth to pups. A bull elephant seal can weigh in at over 8,000 pounds and measure at up to 16 feet from nose to tail. The female is distinctively smaller, “only” weighing in at 2,000 pounds and measuring 12 feet in length. The island is home to about 30 percent of the wide-ranging California population

The dominant plant community on the island is coastal bluff scrubland, with giant coreopsis ( Coreopsis gigantea ) and coyote brush ( Baccharis pilularis ) the most visible components. The few trees present today, including California fan palms ( Washingtonia filifera ) were introduced in modern times. However, early written accounts and the remains of ancient plants in the form of calcareous root casts, known as ‘caliche,’ indicate that, prior to 1860, brush covered a portion of the island.

There are only three species of endemic land vertebrates on the island; the Island night lizard ( Xantusia riversiana ), deer mouse ( Peromyscus maniculatus exterus ), and island fox ( Urocyon littoralis dickey ). Two other reptiles, the common side-blotched lizard ( Uta stansburiana ), and the southern alligator lizard ( Elgaria multicarinatus ) were at one time thought to be endemic, but an analysis of mitochondrial DNA indicates that both species were most likely introduced in recent times.

San Nicolas Island is home to large populations of nesting birds. The two largest nesting populations are the Western gull ( Larus occidentalis ) and Brandt’s cormorant ( Phalacrocorax penicillatus ). These birds, along with the Island night lizard were threatened by a large population of feral cats, but after extensive eradication efforts by the US Navy and other organizations, the island was declared free of cats in 2012. The birds and once endangered Island night lizard populations immediately rebounded, and the night lizard was consequently taken off the endangered species list in 2014.

San Clemente Island

San Clemente Island is the southernmost of all eight of the Channel Islands and is located 113 nautical miles (nm) from Santa Barbara. It is 21 nm long and is 4-1/2 nm across at its widest point, with a total area of 57 square miles. The U.S. Navy acquired the island in 1934 and it has been owned and operated by various naval commands. San Clemente is also home to an auxiliary naval airfield, United States Navy SEALs training facilities, and the southern end of the island is the Navy’s only remaining ship-to-shore live firing range.

San Clemente Island is made of up of volcanic materials dating back to 5 million years ago. The terrain varies between exposed marine terraces and steep canyons dotted sparsely with freshwater springs. The island can be described as being on a ‘tilt;’ the north side rises dramatically out of the ocean (the highest point, Mt. Thirst, is 1,965 ft), while the south side has a much gentler slope to its rocky shores. With a frost-free, semi-arid climate, the island typically gets less than 6 inches of rain in a year.

Diving conditions at San Clemente Island are known for the clearest, warmest waters of all eight Channel Islands. Located in the southernmost region of California this island receives the warmest waters from the tropical currents from the south. Giant kelp beds, schools of fish, coral banks, and shear walls make this a diver’s paradise. Waters in the summer can reach over 70 degrees Fahrenheit and photographers flock to this island for some of the best wide-angle photography available in California.

Most of the prime scuba diving is located at each end of the island. The east end of the island is more protected and offers pinnacles, shear walls, and protected shallow kelp covered coves. San Clemente’s west end is more exposed to the westerly winds and swells but has some of the more prolific areas found off California. Nine Fathom Reef (it rises to 6 ½ fathoms) is a rocky structure with shear walls covered in purple hydrocoral. This is an open ocean diving location and is swept by currents and swells so diving this area can be tricky. Once dove, it is never forgotten.

Because of the military presence at the island, kayaking can be enjoyed near the boat only. As any on any of the Channel Islands, lush kelp beds, volcanic rock formations, and sea lions make kayaking well worth the effort. Generally, kayaking is done during one of Channel Islands Expeditions regularly scheduled liveaboard dive trips.

San Clemente Island is one of the best documented archeological settings in California. Archeologists have found traces of human occupation on the San Clemente Island dating back 10,000 years, a remarkable figure for an island 55 nautical miles out to sea, but consistent with results on other Channel Islands. The native inhabitants here called the island ‘ Kinipar ,’ and bore many cultural similarities to the nearby Nicholenos on San Nicolas Island. Travel between the islands was facilitated by the ‘ ti’at, ’ a plank canoe that enabled the islanders to cross wide channels and open ocean. Inhabitants here left trade materials from the northern islands and from the mainland, including Coso obsidian from the Mohave high desert. It has not been established what tribe the recent inhabitants belonged to, although the Tongva, from Santa Catalina Island and the Los Angeles Basin, are the most likely candidates. The Chumash who occupied the northern Channel Islands may have influenced the inhabitants.

The island was named by the mapping expedition Spanish explorer Sebastian Vizcaino, who spotted it on November 23, 1602; known as Saint Clement’s feast day in the Catholic tradition. The first actual visit happened much later in 1769, when the  San Antonio  of the Portola expedition anchored in Pyramid Cove on the south end of the island. Natives rowed out in ti’ats and exchanged gifts with the expedition, including two otter-fur robes. It was later used by ranchers, fishermen, and smugglers during the 19th century and into the 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s the factory ships Lansing and California anchored off San Clemente Island, processing blue and fin whales, among other species, caught by their own fleets of steam-driven whale catchers.

In recent years effort has been made by several conservation organizations, including Channel Islands Restoration, to remove invasive species from San Clemente Island and promote the re-emergence of native and endemic flora and fauna. The removal of invasive ice plant has encouraged native plants, like the boxthorn ( Lycium spp .) to flourish. This is especially important as many endemic species of birds and reptiles use this native plant as cover and nesting habitat.

The San Clemente Island Loggerhead Shrike ( Lanius ludovicianus mearnsi ) is an endangered species that the Navy is taking steps to protect. The Island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ) and San Clemente Island brodiaea ( Brodiaea kinkiensis ) are notable examples of endemic species on the island. Feral goats roamed the island for centuries, reaching a population of 11,000 in 1972 when their effect on indigenous species was realized. By 1980 the population had been reduced to 4,000 and a plan for shooting remaining goats was blocked in court by the Fund for Animals, so the goats were removed with nets and helicopters.

Anacapa Island

Anacapa is a small volcanic island located 28 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. The smallest of the northern Channel Islands, Anacapa was discovered by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542. Later, in 1793, Captain George Vancouver christened the island Anacapa, a name derived from the Chumash Indian word, “’anyapax,” which means translates to ‘illusion’ or ‘mirage.’ The island’s name, the only one of the Channel Islands chain to maintain its original etymology, suits the place very well. The low rises of the sea cliffs can often be shrouded by marine haze or fog giving the island an air of mystery.

Anacapa is composed of three islets: East Island, Middle Island and West Island. Altogether, the islets make up a narrow island that is 5 miles long and only a ¼ mile wide. Ocean waves have eroded the perimeter of the island, creating steep sea cliffs towering hundreds of feet in height and exposing the volcanic origins of air pockets, lava tubes, and sea caves. At the east end of the island a natural bridge has formed in the ocean. The forty-foot-high Cabrillo Arch is a trademark of Anacapa and the Channel Islands National Park. The highest peak is Summit Peak 2 on West Island at 930 feet.

ATTRACTIONS

Lurking serpent.

• Anacapa is the only island to retain its Chumash nomenclature, “Eenapah” meant “island of illusion”. This was due to the inversion layer of the atmosphere that sits near the horizon some days and makes the island look much larger than it is. To us it looks more like a lurking serpent out on the Channel on clear days. Either way, the island is mysterious and has an interesting history.

Chumash Camp

• Anacapa doesn’t have fresh water and therefor the Chumash didn’t make permanent settlements there. However, there are very large “middens” or trash piles of shells and such that suggest that the Chumash did in fact camp there when making their trade journeys to the mainland.

Navigation Hazard

• The Chumash most likely used Anacapa as a navigational aid and resting point while traveling, however, the mysterious rock has met it’s share of unintended visitors, including the 300+ people aboard the  Winfield Scott in 1853 when it went aground at Middle Anacapa .

USCG Lighthouse

• In 1932 the Anacapa lighthouse was completed on the Eastern island, almost 20 years after it was begun. This light has been keeping sailors from meeting similar fates of the Winfield Scott since that time.

National Park And Marine Sanctuary

• In 1980 congress signed into law the Channel Islands National Park which included Anacapa and Santa Barbara Islands. It also established Marine Sanctuaries around both islands. 23 years later, in 2003, 13 marines protected areas were established, including the Anacapa Marine Reserve with more protection and enforcement.This protection has allowed fish species to rebound in diversity and density. Kayaking and snorkeling in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is a profound example of how this protection has been effective and is important for overall ocean health.All of the kayaking and snorkeling on our tours take place in MPAs so you’ll get to see for yourself!

Diving at Anacapa Island is known for warmer waters as it is at the southern edge of the Northern chain of Channel Islands that receive tropical currents from the south. Many species that are found at the Southern chain of Channel Islands can be found at Anacapa. Lush kelp beds, Garibaldi’s, brittle stars, giant black sea bass, leopard sharks, and sea lions are common sights while scuba diving.

Photographers enjoy the clear waters and many student divers get their first island dive in its temperate conditions. Anacapa Island generally has calmer conditions as it is further to the east of the prevailing Northwest winds generated off Point Conception. Because of its proximity to the mainland, Anacapa is visited by more divers than any other island in the Northern chain of Channel Islands.

Kayaking at Anacapa is often the exclamation point at the end of a trip with Channel Islands Expeditions. Steep cliff faces, secluded coves, inlets packed with marine life, and beautiful sea caves are among just some of the sights you can explore with our expert guides. Kelp forests and sea grass flourish along this rocky coast, which serve as home and feeding ground for an abundance of wildlife. Though small in stature, Anacapa provides perhaps the most diverse sea cave experience of any of the Channel Islands. The basalt cliffs of the island are easily eroded over time by the sea, leaving spectacular geological formations that you’ll have to see to believe.

Landings are done at a pier in the landing cove at East Island. There is a staircase leading out of the cove up a steep cliff side that brings you to a figure eight-shaped trail system that is about 2 miles long. This trail will lead out to one of the most sought-after sea-scape overlooks in the national park, Inspiration Point. An interpretive trail guide is available on the island to interpret island resources. Middle and West Anacapa are not open to hiking as they are set aside for the island’s recovering sea bird populations.

Sea birds are the most conspicuous wildlife on the island. The largest breeding colony of the once-endangered California brown pelican ( Pelecanus occidentalis californicus ) is located on West Anacapa. Other sea birds include Western gulls ( Larus occidentalis ) and several species of cormorants. Scripps’s murrelets ( Synthliboramphus scrippsi ) and Cassin’s auklets ( Ptychoramphus aleuticus ) nest in sea caves and on isolated rocky shores. Anacapa’s rocky shores provide resting and breeding areas for both California sea lions and Harbor seals, two species you have a high likelihood of encountering while on the water with Channel Islands Expeditions. Springtime brings colorful flowers, including the strange tree sunflower called coreopsis ( Coreopsis gigantea ), a plant found only on the Channel Islands and a few isolated areas on the mainland.

On the night of December 2, 1853, the sidewheel steamer  Winfield Scott  running at full speed crashed into the rocks off Middle Anacapa in dense fog and sank. Invasive ship rats ( Rattus rattus ) are thought to have been introduced to the island from the wrecked ship. They had devastating consequences for the island’s seabirds and other native species, but were successfully eradicated in 2001–2002. With the rats gone, the number of nesting Scripps’s murrelets has increased by more than 80 percent in the last two decades. This is one of many recoveries following invasive species eradications from the Channel Islands.

A U.S. Coast Survey team visited the island in 1854 and concluded that although the island’s position at the eastern entrance to the Santa Barbara Channel was a natural choice for a lighthouse “it is inconceivable for a lighthouse to be constructed on this mass of volcanic rock – perpendicular on every face, with an ascent inaccessible by any natural means.”

As approximately nine-tenths of all vessels trading up and down the Pacific Coast passed inside the islands of the Santa Barbara Channel, the American Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots petitioned for a proper fog signal on the island. Funds for what would be the last major light station to be built on the west coast were finally allocated in the late 1920s.

The construction of the station was carried out in two phases and commenced in the spring of 1930. A landing dock, a hoisting crane and roads were added first, and then work began on the various station buildings. A thirty-nine-foot, cylindrical tower and a fog signal were built near the highest point on the eastern end of the island. Four Spanish-style, white stucco houses with red tile roofs were provided for the keepers and their families. Today, there is a museum on the island which houses the original crystal and brass Fresnel lens from the light beacon.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island is the largest island off the continental United States. Located 23 nautical miles (nm) off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, the island is 22 miles long, from 2 to 6 miles wide, and is 97 square miles in area. The Chumash that inhabited this island for well over 11,000 years call this island ‘limuw,’ meaning “in the ocean.” The island Chumash consider this island to be the cradle of their civilization; the birthplace of their people. The scenic beauty of Santa Cruz is reflected in its many landforms including its two rugged mountain ranges. The highest peak on the island is Devil’s Peak, at 2450 feet. Deep canyons, year-round springs and streams, plus 77 miles of craggy coastline cliffs, giant sea caves, pristine tide pools, expansive beaches, and a central valley are features of the unique island. The central valley splits the island along the Santa Cruz Island Fault with volcanic rock on the north and older sedimentary rock on the south. Lying directly on the boundary between cold northern and warm southern waters, this island hosts unique plant, animal, and marine communities representing nearly 1000 miles of marine diversity from California’s coastline.

Diving at Santa Cruz Island is probably the most diverse of all eight Channel Islands. Being on the break of the warm southerly and colder northern currents creates marine habitat for many different species. Being the largest of California’s Channel Islands, there is a wide variety of different dive spots to explore around Santa Cruz Island, each with its own unique characteristics.

The northwest section of the island is volcanic with steep faces and hosts some of the world’s largest sea caves. The southeast section is more sedimentary with large plateaus and thick kelp beds. Santa Cruz offers more places to find good diving during rough weather periods than any other island due to its size and many coves. Seals, sea lions, bat rays, and many schools of fish are common sights while scuba diving with Channel Islands Expeditions along this island’s shores.

Given it’s ample 77-mile coastline, Santa Cruz Island has vast number of kayaking destinations that you are able to visit with Channel Islands Expeditions. In fact, traveling with CIX is the only way to see a vast majority of the island’s scenic shoreline, as most of the island itself is closed to conventional tourism.

Santa Cruz Island has huge variety of flora and fauna that live on and around it’s craggy cliff lines and giant sea caves. The west end of Santa Cruz Island is where you’ll find one of the world’s biggest sea caves, Painted Cave – so named for the vibrant lichen growth on the cave walls. Measured at a towering 160 ft at its entrance, Painted Cave stretches back into the basalt cliff for over a quarter-mile before you reach its terminus. Expect to see plenty of playful sea lions and seals as well as a host of bird life here or anywhere else you paddle on Santa Cruz Island.

There are several hiking trails and roads that traverse the eastern portion of Santa Cruz Island that is part of the Channel Islands National Park. While visitors may explore this section, no hiking is allowed beyond the national park boundary onto The Nature Conservancy property to the west without first obtaining a permit. Landings onto Santa Cruz are either by pier or by skiff. Potential landing areas include Prisoners Harbor and Smugglers Cove.

Once on the Santa Cruz, a well-marked trail system will take you to several scenic overlooks of the island’s coastline, as well as to areas of natural and historical significance. Consult your Channel Islands Expeditions trip leaders as to what may be possible on your expedition, as there is such a vast array of options to explore on this island. Wherever you go, be sure to keep a sharp eye out for some of the island’s many endemic species found here and no where else in the world, including the Island scrub jay and the Island fox.

Archaeological investigations indicate that Santa Cruz Island has been inhabited for at least 10,000 years. Chumash of limuw had their largest village, swaxil, located near present day Scorpion Anchorage. The island had over 10 villages and was home to over 1,200 people. They developed a highly complex society dependent on marine harvest and craft specialization. The island Chumash produced shell-beads that they used for currency. This formed the backbone of an intricate inter-island and cross-channel trading system with the counterparts on the mainland. Their trade was made possible by  tomols , plank canoes constructed from driftwood and sealed with tar and pitch. In teams of as many as ten people, the Chumash would paddle across the channel and trade shell-bead money and island goods for food staples and other goods from the mainland.

Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and his men made first contact with the Chumash of limuw in 1542. The journey would eventually be Cabrillo’s demise, as he is rumored to have died in the winter of 1543 on San Miguel Island, though some postulate we very well could have died on Santa Cruz. The explorers and missionaries that visited after him discovered the complex aboriginal society of the Chumash. Legend has it that on one such visit during a gift exchange, a staff with an iron cross atop of it was forgotten. The next day, the Chumash paddled in a tomol to the expedition’s ship and return it. From that day, the island was called “La Isla de la Santa Cruz,” meaning “the island of the sacred cross.”

By the early 1800’s the Chumash were said to have ‘voluntarily’ moved to the Santa Barbara and Santa Buenaventura missions. Thus ended 10,000 years of habitation by the Chumash on Santa Cruz Island. The Mexican government claimed the island as its own territory in 1821 before California’s independence movement began in 1838. Santa Cruz Island was gifted to Andres Castillero for his role in brokering a shaky peace in California. He would be the first of many private owners who would shape the island into what it is today.

The ranching period on Santa Cruz began with a small sheep ranching operation managed by James Barron Shaw and grew to be one a well-recognized operation by the 1860’s. Ownership of the ranch passed on to the businessman Justinian Caire in 1886, who had a vision to establish both sheep and cattle ranching on Santa Cruz Island as well as one of California’s first commercial vineyards. Caire’s legacy of ranching and land husbandry would remain until the National Park Service bought the east end of Santa Cruz Island from Caire’s descendants in 1980 and the last of the flocks of sheep were taken off the island in 1999. The Nature Conservancy came into full ownership of the west end of the island, including Main Ranch in the central valley in 1987.

Today, Santa Cruz Island is divided between The Nature Conservancy and the National Park Service. The Nature Conservancy owns and manages the western 76% of the island; the eastern 24% is owned and managed by the National Park Service.

Permanent and seasonal water sources, plus a number of microclimates, support over 650 species of plants and trees in ten different plant communities, from marshes and grasslands to chaparral and pine forests. Owing to millions of years of isolation, eight of these plants are “endemic”-they grow nowhere else in the world. Springtime is a patchwork of blooming annuals, sometimes seen from the mainland as bright splashes of color. Over 140 land bird species have been identified here. The Island scrub jay ( Aphelocoma insularis ), a Santa Cruz Island endemic, is a living example of “gigantism,” whereby some island animals evolve to a larger form. This bird is one-third bigger and much bluer than the mainland scrub jay. Other animals, like the Island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ) and Island spotted skunk ( Spilogale gracilis amphialus ), tend toward “dwarfism,” growing smaller over the ages. Eleven other mammal species including nine bats, deer and harvest mouse, three kinds of amphibians including the Channel Islands slender salamander ( Batrachoseps pacificus ), five reptiles including the Side-blotched lizard, Southern alligator lizard, Western fence lizard, Western yellow belly racer, and Gopher snake, might be seen by visitors.

Bald eagles ( Haliaeetus leucocephalus ) were once numerous on California’s Channel Islands, but because of eggshell thinning caused by the illegal dumping of the pesticide, “DDT,” and other factors, the last known successful Bald eagle nesting in the northern Channel Islands was in 1949. By the 1960’s, Bald eagles could no longer be found on any of the Channel Islands. Soon after, Golden eagles ( Aquila chrysaetos ) began nesting on the islands, and began hunting Island foxes until native fox populations declined to a threatened status. After successful trapping and relocating of the Golden eagles, the Institute for Wildlife Studies started a program in 2002 to reintroduce Bald eagles to the California’s Channel Islands funded by money from a $25 million fund to deal with the lingering effects of DDT dumped by the Montrose Chemical Corporation into the ocean near Los Angeles.

Between 2002 and 2006, 61 young bald eagles have been released on Santa Cruz Island. On March 17, 2006 wildlife biologists for the Institute announced that for the first time in over 50 years there has been a successful hatching on Santa Cruz Island. In April 2007, the Nature Conservancy announced another successful chick hatching. The chick broke free of its shell on April 13, 2007. The parents were one of the two nesting pairs who had returned to the island after making history the previous year. Both pairs were born in captivity. This second birth represented a turning point in the struggle to return the eagles to their former habitat on the island. Three nests have now been documented on Santa Cruz island as of the 2008 breeding season.

Painted Cave

Santa rosa island.

Santa Rosa Island is the second largest of the Channel Islands and lies about 26 nautical miles (nm) from Santa Barbara. The island is nearly 17 nm long, 10.75 nm wide at the widest point, and 53,000 acres or 83 square miles in total area. The island has a relatively low profile with the exception of a rugged central mountain range.

The highest peak in the range is Vail Peak, at 1589 feet.

It is a diverse island of grass-covered rolling hills, steep canyons, creeks, rocky inter-tidal areas and sandy beaches adorned with sand dunes and driftwood. The Chumash, the native peoples who inhabited the Channel Islands for well over twelve millennia called this island “wima,” the Chumash word for “driftwood.” It is thought that the island is so named for the driftwood (sometimes redwood) logs that would wash ashore here. They would use these logs to craft dugout canoes called “ tomols ” with which they would travel and trade from island to island and to the mainland.

In the 1970’s and 80’s scuba divers flocked to Santa Rosa to take advantage of the many species of game fish available. Talcott Shoals, which lies off the northwest section of the island, is a large plateau that offers various terrains for divers. The western section of Talcott becomes more dramatic in its topography and offers not only hunting opportunities for game-divers, but great underwater photography opportunities as well. The shipwreck of the Aggie , which lays in 25 to 50 feet of water along a ridge, is readily accessible to divers at Talcott. The east end of Santa Rosa has a wonderful assortment of pinnacles that are covered in corynactis (strawberry anemone) and large schools of fish. Santa Rosa Island lies at an intersection of warm-water and cold, nutrient-rich currents. A diverse web of marine life can be found and enjoyed in these pristine waters.

Kayaking at Santa Rosa Island is a fascinating way to experience a wild California seascape. The sandy beaches and cliffs are breeding and resting areas for sea birds and seals and sea lions. Kayaking will often give you views and access to wildlife that you might not get in any other way. However, being a wild place means that we are at the mercy of the wind and waves. There may be times when the conditions are not favorable for kayaking, or when kayaking at particular location may require you and your group to be experienced paddlers.

Hiking with Channel Islands Expeditions on Santa Rosa Island will lead you down some of the several trails and roads traverse the island, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the spectacular scenery Santa Rosa provides. These trails and roads range from the relatively flat route to Water Canyon Beach to the rugged, mountainous path to Black Mountain.

A variety of Torrey Pine ( Pinus torreyana var. insularis ) grows on the island. The population of this endangered species is estimated at approximately 1000 trees. This ancient grove is just a remnant of a much larger forest of Torrey pines that once existed in the Pleistocene era, some 12,000 years ago. A trail that leads to this exceedingly rare species of pine tree can be accessed from Becher’s Bay, the island’s main landing.

Keep a sharp eye out for the Island fox, Spotted skunk, and Munchkin dudleya ( Dudleya gnoma ); one of the six endemic plant species on the island. 

Archeological and paleontological sites are abundant on the island. In 1994, the world’s most complete skeleton of a pygmy mammoth ( Mammuthus exilis ) had been excavated; a dwarf species related to the Columbian mammoths. In 1960 archaeologists discovered humans remains dating back 13,000 years at Arlington Springs on Santa Rosa Island. These remains are among the oldest human remains in the Americas and were discovered by Phil C. Orr, curator of anthropology and natural history at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Orr believed the remains were those of a 10,000-year old man and dubbed them the “Arlington Springs Man”.

Santa Rosa Island was originally part of a Spanish land grant. The island was used as a sheep ranch during the mid-1800s by the More family. Then during the cold war the United States Air Force maintained a radar base on the island. In the late 1970s Mobil Oil Corporation was granted exploration rights on the island. Both explosive and vibroseis exploration methods were used. Extensive surveys and geological maps were made at that time. Finally, in 1980, Santa Rosa Island was included within Channel Islands National Park.

San Miguel Island

Wind-battered San Miguel Island is the westernmost of California’s Channel Islands lying 45 nautical miles (nm) from Santa Barbara. San Miguel is the sixth largest of all eight offshore islands at 9,500 acres or 14 square miles, including offshore islands and rocks. The island at its furthest extent is 8 miles long and 3.7 miles wide. The highest peak is San Miguel Hill, at 831 feet. Its maritime location makes San Miguel subject to high winds and lots of fog. The cold, nutrient-rich water surrounding the island supports a diverse array of sea life that is not found on the southern or eastern counterparts.

Channel Islands Expeditions can take you to this windswept tableland of lush grasses and wildflowers, with 27 miles of jagged, rocky coastline dotted with sandy white beaches. An impressive Caliche forest (sand-castings of an ancient forest) near Cuyler’s Harbor reminds us that San Miguel once supported much more varied plant life than it does now. The westernmost beach, Point Bennett, is the only place in the world where up to five different species of pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) can be found. When the weather permits, scuba diving and kayaking with these creatures is a truly unique experience.

San Miguel has some of the most spectacular scuba diving found anywhere off the coast of California. On a given day the water can be 10 to 15 degrees colder at San Miguel so proper equipment (7 mm wetsuit minimum or drysuit) is needed to enjoy this remote dive location. The topography at its offshore pinnacles makes a diver feel small. Mountainous pinnacles can go from 20 feet of water to 200 on some walls. More varieties of seals and sea lions can be viewed here than any other Channel Island. Protected coves, banks, offshore rocks and pinnacles make this a sought-after destination for scuba divers. Weather protects this island from too much human visitation so patience is needed to dive here on a nice day. A nice day at San Miguel is about as good as it gets.

Weather, weather, weather. Anyone who sets out to enjoy a day of kayaking around San Miguel Island needs to understand that the weather at this remote island can change in a minute. Generally, it would be considered a more advanced area to kayak but good weather periods do happen. The remoteness and wildlife at this island make kayaking incredibly unique. Large seal and sea lion colonies are spread out along the shores. Many varieties seabirds call this home and dolphins and whales are commonly sighted near shore. Special arrangements can be made on private charters for island to island kayaking. Advanced kayakers have found the downhill run in a northwest wind to be invigorating. Attempting this should be done by only those who have the skill and endurance along with support vessel assistance supplied by Channel Islands Expeditions on its multi-day liveaboard excursions.

There are several trails that traverse San Miguel Island providing a variety of hikes. Many parts of the island are closed to protect wildlife, fragile plants, and geological features, so hikes outside of the Cuyler Harbor beach, Cabrillo Monument, and Lester Ranch site are done with a qualified naturalist or Park Ranger. Longer hikes are available on Channel Islands Expeditions multi-day liveaboard excursions to San Miguel. A vigorous 16-mile hike to Point Bennett will take you to see one of the most spectacular wildlife events on our planet. Over 30,000 seals and sea lions can be hauled out on the point at certain times of year.

There is no pier on San Miguel Island so all landings are done by inflatable skiff at Cuyler Harbor. Landing on the island can be an exciting experience as the surf can make the landing challenging. Channel Islands Expeditions has developed a “launch line” procedure that has made this operation much safer for our passengers.

Being the most westerly of the Channel Islands, San Miguel Island is more prone to receive the brunt of any weather systems that move through the area. Most of the time a strong northwest wind blows across the island and these winds typically exceed 25 mph and can surpass 50 mph. When strong high pressure is over the mainland, the winds often cease creating a surreal environment. On warmer days the fog will burn off only to have the strong northwest wind blow in additional fog from the open ocean. On foggy days the temperature will rarely exceed 55°F.

The National Park Service maintains two airstrips, a ranger station and a research station on the island. San Miguel is normally staffed by a ranger who enforces park laws, while also sometimes providing interpretive services for public visitors. The island also hosts scientists that study pinnipeds and manage the Island fox (Urocyon littoralis) captive breeding program that is conducted on the island. Volunteer interpretive rangers often fill in for regularly paid rangers due to budget deficits within the park. Park employees and researchers are flown to the island by Channel Islands Aviation. Public visitors are not permitted to fly in.

Archaeological research has uncovered over 600 fragile and relatively undisturbed sites belonging to the native peoples that once lived here. Some have been radio-carbon dated to 11,600 years ago. Because the northern Channel Islands have not been connected to the adjacent mainland in recent geological history, the paleoindians who first settled the island clearly had boats and other maritime technologies. Rough seas and risky landings did not daunt the Chumash who lived there in later times, nor did they deter the first European explorer, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, in 1542, who first claimed the island for the Spanish crown, named it “La Posesion.” San Miguel is also rumored to be Cabrillo’s burial place (there is a monument there in his honor).

Ranchers raised sheep from 1850 to 1948. One of the longest homesteaded ranching families were the Lesters, a family of four that parted their way from the island during Pearl Harbor due to the dangers the war posed on them. The detailed information was written and published in a book called “The Legendary King of San Miguel Island,” by Elizabeth Sherman Lester. Later, the United States Navy used the island for a bombing range.

San Miguel is world famous for its pinniped viewing. In the winter, as many as 30,000 individual seals and sea lions of five different species can be seen at one time on Point Bennett, where they breed and birth their pups. Other wildlife includes the Island fox ( Urocyon littoralis ), a species that is found only on the Channel Islands. Over one third of the bird-life in the Channel Islands National Park lives here on San Miguel Island. Species like the California brown pelican ( Pelecanus occidentalis californicus),  cormorants, and Cassin’s auklets all breed on the island and its surrounding islets. Terrestrial birds include the Western meadowlark ( Sturnella neglecta ), Channel Islands song sparrow ( Melospiza melodia graminea ), and Peregrine falcons ( Falco peregrinus ).

A geologic feature called the caliche forest attracts many people. This ghost forest was formed by caliche sand castings of plant roots and trunks. Today the plants are long gone, leaving behind the eerie stone replicas. Come springtime, San Miguel’s wildflowers are spectacular due to the abundance of fog and moisture. Any one of these natural features is stunning in its own right. Together, they make for a photographer’s paradise.

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Day Trips To Isle Royale National Park

​​​​​​ grand portage isle royale transportation lines.

Grand Portage Isle Royale Transportation Lines offers day trips to the island aboard the Sea Hunter III.  We depart at 8:30 am CDT from Hat Point Marina in Grand Portage, MN.  *For late September day trips aboard the Voyageur II see "Schedules" below. We arrive on the island around 10:00 am, and the Park rangers will welcome you to take part in planned activities including guided hikes and programs, or you can plan your own stay. Sea Hunter III passengers have 4 hours on the island, allowing plenty of time for hiking, a picnic lunch, shopping for souvenirs and snacks at the Windigo Store, exploring the exhibits at the visitor center, or just relaxing. Then we reboard at 1:45pm for a 2:00 pm CDT departure and get back to the marina around 3:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to visit other places of interest in Grand Portage or get to your next destination.

Please Note The Following:

• We strongly recommend that you make your reservations for both boats at least two to three months in advance, as they tend to sell out. 

Schedules Sea Hunter III   2024 sailing dates are June 12th - August 31st (Providing service to and from Windigo, Isle Royale from Grand Portage, MN) DEPART: Grand Portage, MN - 08:30 AM CDT ARRIVE: Windigo, Isle Royale Nat. Park - 10:00 AM CDT DEPART: Windigo, Isle Royale Nat. Park - 02:00 PM CDT ARRIVE: Grand Portage, MN - 03:30 PM CDT Jun 12th - July 13th: to and from Windigo Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday July 17th - August 11th: to and from Windigo Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday August 14th - August 31st: to and from Windigo on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday  *Saturday and Sunday, Sept 21st, 22nd and Sept 28th, 29th  - day trips back and forth to Windigo each day aboard the Voyageur II; depart Grand Portage at 8am and Windigo at 1pm

PLEASE NOTE: There are no day trips available from September 1st through September 20th.

Departure Times

Passengers must be at the boat dock and prepared to board 20 minutes prior to departure from Grand Portage and 15 minutes prior to departure from Isle Royale on the way back. 

$102 Day trip passenger over and back in the same day $94 Day trip passenger under 16 years of age

All reservations require a full fare remittance at the time of the reservation. A reservation is not confirmed until payment is received. Payment can be made by Visa or MasterCard only. 

National Park Entrance Fee For information about the daily entrance fee and park passes please  CLICK HERE . Keep your pass or proof of entrance fee payment on your person during boat transportation as you will need to present it to park personnel upon arrival.

Gear Restrictions Each passenger is allowed up to 40 lbs of gear. If you will have over 40 lbs of gear you will need to call our office ahead of time to pay an extra charge (see cost on our Rates page) and reserve room on the boat for it.   Our vessels may not be able to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs. Please call us for more information. We are not able to accommodate power scooters on our boats.

Weather Conditions

Our boats traverse the largest of the Great Lakes during many weather conditions. Wind speed and direction on any given day determine wave size that may affect your comfort on board. In addition, as the boat moves through the water even smaller waves may cause spray on the decks, and our vessels travel rain or shine. Based on cabin size, not all passengers will be able to sit in an enclosed area; seating for some will be on the outside decks. For these reasons we suggest passengers bring their rain gear with them in case. Please keep in mind that the lake is typically 30 to 40 degrees cooler than the air temperature on the mainland. Dress accordingly, in layers, and include a jacket and long pants. Our crew is dedicated to your comfort and safety and we ask that you come prepared for Lake Superior's varied weather conditions.

Cancellation Policy 

Please read and understand our cancellation policy before making a reservation. 

All reservations cancelled at least two full weeks prior to the initial scheduled outbound trip date are subject to a 15% fee, and 85% of fare will be refunded. If a reservation is cancelled within two weeks or if you fail to arrive on your departure date ("No Show") there is absolutely NO REFUND, nor are ticket transfers to other persons allowed within that time frame. All group reservations (over 6 passengers) are subject to a minimum of six weeks notice to receive an 85% refund. There is no refund for group reservations cancelled within six weeks prior to initial departure date. Our cancellation policy is non-negotiable regardless of circumstances. If WE cancel a trip due to weather or any other reason you will receive a full refund of all fares. However, since weather cancellations are never made prior to departure time you must be present and check in with our office staff to receive the refund. If you are not present you will be deemed "No Show" and will forfeit your refund.

​Reservation Changes If you need to change your itinerary on an existing reservation to a different day than you booked you may do so by calling our office. Changes are subject to availability and there will be a $10 charge for this service. Making a change to the date of a trip is not allowed within two weeks of the initial departure date (six weeks for groups). 

Have you read, and do you agree to the preceding policies? If so, please click "I AGREE" to continue with ONLINE BOOKING.

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Top Rhine River Day-Trip Cruise Lines in Germany

Published on March 18, 2024

by Henk Bekker

in Germany , N24 , Rhine / Rhein River , Rhine River , River Cruises

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) is the best Rhine River day trip cruise line with excursions from Cologne (Köln), Koblenz, Rüdesheim, and the Loreley Valley.

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) and the Weisse Flotte Rhein are the best-known day-trip riverboat cruise lines on the Rhine River in Germany and are good choices for short to all-day excursion cruises. Popular day-trip cruises are to tour the Loreley Valley between Rüdesheim, St Goar, and Koblenz or panorama sightseeing cruises in larger cities such as Cologne, Düsseldorf, Cochem ( Mosel ), and Frankfurt ( Main ).

The Rhine River is a very popular day-trip destination from cities such as Cologne (Köln) and Frankfurt am Main. Trains run on both banks of the Rhein but nothing beats a cruise on the river itself. Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) has the largest number of boats on the Rhine River and has many cruises through the lovely Loreley Valley that could be as short as an hour or all day. Several further companies operate cruises on the Rhine and past the Lorelei (Loreley). Special savings deals are available on many cruises.

The KD Rhine Pass savings deal has not been on sale in recent years but Get Your Guide offers easy booking (and often sensible cancelation options) for day-trip cruises on the Rhine departing from many popular cities such as Cologne , Düsseldorf , Bonn , Koblenz , Boppard , Ruedesheim , Cochem , and Frankfurt . Most cruise lines now also accept online ticket purchases but several still prefer to sell tickets directly at the quay or on board cruise boats.

Tips for the Best Rhine River Day Trip Cruises in Germany

Day-trip cruises on the Rhine River are very popular in Germany with departures available from many cities and even small towns on the Rhine. Reservations are often not possible for regular day cruises but it is worth planning a bit in advance to take advantage of savings deals to get the best value (and finest views) from a cruise.

• Rhine riverboats differ in size in and between companies but there are little real noticeable differences between boats. Often it is best to simply take the next boat to depart.
• Most boats cruising on the Rhine River have their own restaurants and bars but it is acceptable to consume your own food and drink on the open decks of Linienfahrten , i.e. cruises with stops en route.
• The high season for Rhine River day cruises is from end April to early October. However, regular cruises operate usually from late March to late October.
• Cruises in winter months are very limited but often a few cruises may be available during the Christmas market Advent season. Departures are most likely from Rüdesheim and Cologne .
• Return trips on most Rhine River cruise lines are only marginally more expensive than one-way cruises. Often cruising up and down river on a scenic part of the river may be more rewarding than going a longer distance in one direction.
• If space is available, bicycles are transported for free on some boats — KD charges €3.50.
• Show Deutsche Bahn tickets (or often any public transportation ticket) if applicable when buying boat tickets and discounts are often applied – check German Railways timetables and book train tickets online at Deutsche Bahn . (If available, select the town name with KD at the end to include instructions on how to reach the boat landing from the train station.) The timetables sometimes include boat trips too.
• Smaller lines are often slightly cheaper than the Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) boats. However, the price difference is very small and the discounts offered by KD and the higher number of departures may well outweigh any price disadvantage.

See also Loreley Valley Rhine River Day Cruises for tips on sensible routings and cruise times between ports on the very popular Middle Rhine Valley.

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) – the Largest Pleasure Day Cruise Line on the Rhine in Germany

Köln-Düsseldorfer, or simply KD , is the largest operator of pleasure boats for short and full single day cruises on the Rhine River in Germany. KD has been in business since 1827 but the oldest KD boat in operation is the SS Goethe first launched in 1913.

Köln-Düsseldorfer is generally a good choice for day cruises on the Rhine. KD has the largest number of departures by far of all Rhine pleasure boat lines. This allows passengers to make more stops en route if desired — remember to indicate all planned stops when buying tickets as separate tickets are issued for each leg of the cruise.

During the high season, KD has at least two boats doing the daily cruise route from Rüdesheim and Bingen to Koblenz (and return) with further boats cruising between Mainz and Boppard. Many more KD boats cruise between Bonn and Linz with the occasional boat starting from Cologne.

In 2024, no regular Rhine boats cruise between Linz and Koblenz in either direction. KD also does not offer Mosel cruises other than the panorama cruise in Cochem .

KD also often has arrangements with other local boat operators to offer a high number of departures.

Köln-Düsseldorfer historic SS Goethe paddle steamer from 1913 is the oldest regular cruise boat on the Rhine River. The Goethe steams daily (except Monday) from Koblenz to Rüdesheim and back — just over 6 hours upstream and just less than 4 hours going back.

Depending on the season, KD has scheduled cruises on the Rhine, Mosel , and Main rivers and panorama cruises in Düsseldorf , Cologne , Cochem , and Frankfurt . The Middle Rhine and Loreley Valley remain the top cruise by far.

Special Savings Deals KD Rhine River Boat Day Cruises

Köln-Düsseldorfer offers a wide range of special savings deals to make Rhine River day trips cheaper. Different discounts generally cannot be combined and official identification may be required. Also, discounts are only available for tickets bought in person for regular cruises and are usually only valid if KD’s own boats are used:

• Birthday Child – irrespective of age, a passenger and any partner may cruise for 50% off on the specific birthday date.
• Special family passes are good value. Sometimes the family day deals are available: Family Day — Wednesdays up to three children under 13 cruise for free per paying adult.
• Children between 4 and 13 cruise on KD for only €9 per day as long as they are accompanied by a fare-paying adult (up to 3 children per adult). Children under 4 sail for free.
• School children and students under 27 pay only half price if the above discounts are not applicable.
• Seniors over 60 receive 20% discount on all cruises.
• Dog tickets are €3.90 per cruise — dogs must be kept on a leash the whole cruise.
• On Tuesdays and Thursdays, cyclists sail two for the price of one on one-way trips (two cyclists and two bicycles – or a tandem – are required!). Ironically the bicycle ticket (€3.50 per bike per cruise) is not discounted.

For more details on these and other saving fares see Rhine River Day Cruise Saver Fares .

Weisse Flotte Rhein Rhine River Day Cruises in Germany

A few independent Rhine boat cruise operators cooperate under the Weisse Flotte Rhein banner. However, these companies set their own schedules and prices. These companies cruise on all parts of the Rhine but departures and cruises are most frequent in the vicinity of the Rhine where these independent boat cruise lines are based. Many cruise lines offer discount combination tickets for cruises and sightseeing sites.

Note that Rundfahrt (circular cruises) and Panorama Cruises usually mean that it is not possible to leave the boat en route or at a destination other than the original departure point, while Linienfahrten allow passengers to disembark anywhere en route, as is mostly the case with KD cruises.

The Weisse Flotter Rhein companies in geographical downstream order:

Bingen-Rüdesheimer Rhine River Day Cruise Pleasure Boat Line

Bingen-Rüdesheimer offers cruises in the Rüdesheim and Bingen area, as well as up to three daily cruises through the Loreley Valley to St Goar and St Goarhausen. Rüdesheim has a popular Christmas market and is one of the few towns along the Rhine that offers some cruises during the winter season. Bingen-Rüdesheimer still honors the tradition Geburtstagtarif — free cruises on a birthday. The child an bicycle fares are also slightly cheaper than KD and dogs mostly cruise for free.

See also Rhine River Cruises from Rüdesheim – a great town to start or conclude a Rhine day cruise.

Loreley Linie Weinand from Kamp Bornhofen

Loreley-Linie Weinand operates from Kamp Bornhofen with cruises to the Loreley Valley with stops mostly in Boppard, Kamp Bornhofen, Kestert, St Goar, and St Goarhausen. Once a week, it is possible to cruise all the way to Rüdesheim and back.

Bonner Personen Schiffahrt Rhine Cruises

Bonner Personen Schiffahrt cruises on the Rhine mostly from Bonn with panorama cruises in the former German capital as well as Rhine cruises mostly to Linz — some may be booked online. Cruises between Linz and Koblenz are rare and usually only for repositioning boats after Rhine in Flames fireworks shows.

Rössler Linie Rhine River Boat Cruises in Germany

Rössler Line is based in Rüdesheim-Assmannshausen. Rössler has mostly shorter Rhine cruises in the Rüdesheim vicinity but Rössler occasionally cruises down the Loreley Valley past Die Lorelei to St Goar / St Goarhausen. The shorter cruises in the popular Rüdesheim area may include visiting castles or winetastings — many may be booked online .

Köln Tourist Personenschiffahrt am Dom

Köln Tourist competes with KD in its home town Cologne. Although it offers some excursion cruises, it mostly operates panorama sightseeing cruises in the Cologne area including special harbor cruises and cruises with an emphasis on culinary events, dancing, and parties.

See also Loreley Valley Rhine River Day Cruises for tips on sensible routings and cruise times between towns from Koblenz to Mainz and Top Rhine Day Cruises from Cologne for similar information on cruises from Cologne (Köln), Bonn, and Düsseldorf.

More on the Rhine River in Germany

Day-Trip Excursions and Pleasure Cruises on the Rhine River:

• cruise from Rüdesheim ( cruise lines ), Koblenz ( cruise lines ), winter & Christmas
• from Frankfurt — fast trains to the Rhine , or slow boat to the Rhine
• from Mainz and Wiesbaden
• Savings Tips , Best Cruise Lines
• Lower Rhine — Cologne, Düsseldorf, Bonn to Linz
• Special events: Cruises to Rhine in Flames Fireworks , Christmas and New Year’s Cruises in Cologne , Düsseldorf , Frankfurt , and Rüdesheim
• Moselle River Cruises ( Cochem , Bernkastel-Kues, Trier, Koblenz , Burg Eltz )
• Cruises on the Main River in Frankfurt (or better By Train from Frankfurt to the Best Rhine Cruises )
• Cruises from Worms, Mannheim, Heidelberg (on the Neckar River)
• Cruises from Speyer
• Rhinefalls (Rhine Waterfalls, Schaffhausen, Stein am Rhein, Kreuzlingen) in Switzerland

Tips and Savings on Day-Trip Rhine Cruises

• The best part of the Rhine for day-trip excursion cruises in the Middle Rhine between Rüdesheim / Bingen and Koblenz . See Savings Tips and the Best Cruise Lines cruising in the Loreley Valley.
• Check train times for Germany (and most of Europe) at German Railways .

About the author:

Henk Bekker

Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.

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Boat Holidays in Croatia

Find the right boat holiday for you in Croatia. There are 24 boating trips to choose from, that range from 3 days in length, up to 8 days. The month with the most departures is August, making it the most popular time to visit Croatia.

24 Boat holiday packages in Croatia with 79 positive reviews

5-day Dubrovnik to Split one-way cruise - Premier Plus boat, 30-49s

8-day Split Return cruise - Premier boat, Mixed-age

Pearls of Adriatic cruise

We enjoyed this trip very much. Fantastic scenery, good food, great crew, and interesting travel companions. Accommodations were basic, but comfortable and the ship was very nice for a relaxing journey along the coast and through the islands. Along with Croatia itself, the highlights were, surprisingly for us, swimming in the bays and the captain's dinner. Bonus was a great week of weather the last week of October.

Pearls of Adriatic Deluxe cruise

Relaxing trip sailing around the Croatian islands with a swim stop and different port overnight every day. Guided tours of Split, Dubrovnik and Trogir. Cannot fault the boat, crew or itinerary. Cabins very comfortable. The lunches were adequate on board (breakfasts and Captain's table dinner were good). Drinks were quite pricey. At the time of year we went all the other passengers were German and retired.

Bike and Boat: Cycling Croatia's Islands

Croatia is open! What a wonderful experience boating to all the islands and traveling by bicycle each day from docked boat. The #bikeexplus staff was exceptional. The #tanjamora staff was superb. They all made the trip...."a trip of a lifetime".

• Sightseeing

Dalmatian Coast and Dubrovnik Bike and Sail

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking and Biking in Croatia (3 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Coast - Deluxe

5-day Dubrovnik to Split one-way cruise - Premier boat, Mixed-age

4-day Split to Dubrovnik one-way - Premier boat, Mixed-age group

4-day Split to Dubrovnik One-way Cruise - Classic Plus above-deck, 20-35s

Had an amazing time. The crew was lovely and our cruise manager Luna was honestly incredible! She made sure that everyone was having a good time, always smiling and sharing her joy with everyone. I came alone but never truly felt alone. If you are hesitating, don’t! I dont have anything bad to say about this team and cruise. Xx

5-day Dubrovnik to Split one-way cruise - Classic Plus above-deck, 20-35s

The staff was really nice, they would give us suggestions for places, the food was very delicious. The boat room is pretty small and the bathroom also, but you’re not gonna spend a lot of time there anyway. They stop everyday in nice swim spots and the boat we have been on had also stand-up paddle board which I think it’s a very cool idea.

8-day Split Return cruise - Classic Plus boat, above-deck, 20-35s

Amazing tour! Great people, food and facilities - not to mention a great country to tour by boat. Highly recommend.

8-day Split Return cruise - Premier Plus boat, 30-49s

Kvarner Islands & Northern Dalmatia Deluxe Cruise

Beautiful cruise with amazing food. The staff was wonderful and the guided tours were great. Loved the swims in the afternoon and all of the overnight stops in Croatia.

Croatia Boat Trip Reviews

Had the best time with the crew and other passengers, meals and service couldn’t fault them. But the cabin was under the gang plank and so noisy could get no sleep on fist night, second night no sleep as my cabin was right next to generators on neighbouring boat.. Next 5 nights things were better.

The tour itself was very good, the crew was friendly, the ship very satisfactory, the food OK (tended to be over-cooked). The biggest drawback was that there were a large number of "smokers" on the tour, perhaps 30-40% of the passengers. Unfortunately, there was no smoking prohibition in the aft lounge, which was enclosed for several days due to windy/rainy weather. Also, the crew members took their smoke-breaks there.. It made for a very unpleasant situation. I strongly recommend that this issue be addressed for the health and enjoyment of your future passengers. Are there non-smoking tours? Perhaps, a smoking area can be designated for the benefit of all. Thanks. MIchael

Biking itinerary & rides/scenery 10+! Luxurious sailboat 10+! Comfy, cozy cabin/ accommodation 10+! Delicious food 10+! Boat crew 10+! Our guides, Silvija & Mario, 10+++! So nice not to pack up every night and the swimming off the boat in the clear turquoise water was divine. Loved everything about this bike/boat trip! Thank you ExperiencePlus!

Regions in Croatia

• Croatian Islands (23)
• Dalmatia (20)

Travel Styles

• Croatia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Croatia Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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The Ultimate 5 Day Phuket Itinerary

P huket is the largest island in Thailand and is well known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. In order to see the best of this island, putting together a 5-day Phuket itinerary is a good way to maximise your time.

In five days, you can have enough time to explore the island’s many beaches, such as Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach, as well as immerse yourself in Thai culture by visiting local temples and sacred sites, diving into cooking the Thai cuisine, and exploring the bustling markets.

You can also take advantage of Phuket’s proximity to nearby islands such as the Phi Phi Islands or James Bond Island, which allow you to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in Thailand.

If you’re thinking of spending 5 days in Phuket but not sure what to do or where to go, below is the ultimate 5-day itinerary for Phuket.

Is 5 days enough for Phuket?

Where to base yourself in phuket, stop 1: hit the beach or sit by the pool, stop 2: take a traditional thai cooking class with pat, stop 3: visit wat chalong and the big buddha, stop 4: enjoy an indulgent dinner at the hilton, stop 2: catch the sunset at the after beach bar in kata, stop 4: eat street food at the local karon temple night markets, stop 1: indulge in a thai massage, stop 2: old town phuket, stop 3: try water sports such as jet ski or parasailing, stop 4: simon cabaret show, stop 1: maya bay, stop 2: lagoon swim, stop 3: snorkeling spot, stop 4: lunch at don phi phi, stop 5: swimming spot, stop 1: elephant sanctuary, stop 2: bang pae waterfall, stop 3: promthep cape, getting around phuket, best time to visit phuket, save this to pinterest:.

Planning your trip to Phuket last-minute?

Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Phuket! Here are some of the top tours, hotels, and useful items you may need before your trip!

Top Experiences and Tours in Phuket

• Visit the Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket (a must for animal lovers!)
• A day trip to the Phi Phi Islands (see the iconic Maya Bay!)
• Watch the Simon Cabaret Show (an unmissable thing to do at night)

Top Accommodation and Hotels in Phuket

• Amari Phuket, Patong Beach (luxury resort, near the nightlife but away from the noise)
• Ozo Phuket, Kata Beach (a quiet resort, excellent for couples)
• Pullman Phuket, Karon Beach (excellent location, ideal for families)

Phuket, Thailand is the perfect place for those wanting an indulgent getaway – whether for just the weekend, or a longer stay.

Personally, I think 5 days is the minimum number of days you need in Phuket as there is so much to see and do, plus you want to have a good amount of time to really enjoy the beaches and top attractions.

We stayed at the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa for 6 nights and had a fantastic family holiday enjoying all that was on offer on Thailand’s largest island.

We first visited Phuket 10 years earlier on our honeymoon and were not impressed. That was because we stayed in Patong Beach, the area notorious for wild party nights and a chaotic mess of street markets, pubs, and go go bars.

On our second stay in Phuket, we decided to stay in Karon Beach , which was perfect.

It is a much quieter destination more suited to families and those wanting to relax and appreciate, rather than paint the town scarlet!

We discovered that Phuket attracts many type of travelers, but where you base yourself really impacts your experience. If you stay in Karon Beach, Kata Beach or Kamala Beach, you can avoid the nightlife of Bangla Road and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation.

If you want to party, then Patong Beach is the place to go.

Wherever you stay, you can rent a car or scooter to get around and still be able to see the best of Phuket.

Honestly, all of Phuket’s attractions are within a scooter ride and it really doesn’t matter where you base yourself. You just got to pick an area with the vibe that’s right for you.

In the following Phuket itinerary, we’ve captured all of the highlights of Phuket, allowing you time to really get a sense of the Thai culture, discover the most beautiful scenery and indulge in the laid-back Phuket way.

Day 1: Phuket Town and Karon Beach

We’re going to assume that you arrive in Phuket the night before, so our first day in Phuket on this itinerary will be the first full day you have available.

If you traveled a long way, or if you landed in the morning, use the day that you arrive as a rest day before you start exploring.

On your first full day, rise early for breakfast in your hotel. Depending on where you’re staying, you might want to spend some time in the morning hitting the Phuket beaches and cooling off with a morning swim.

Some excellent beaches for a swim are Karon Beach, Kata Beach (And Kata Noi Beach, a smaller beach near Kata), Nai Harn Beach, Layan Beach or even Patong Beach in the day time.

You might also need to use your morning to get orientated, such as picking up a sim card and hiring a car or scooter, so use this morning as a chilled morning to get yourself ready for a Phuket adventure.

Thailand is full of difficult decisions, like should I drink a beer or a cocktail, or swim at the pool with ocean views or cross the road to swim in the warm ocean, with views?

You will find there is plenty of time to enjoy the beaches or swim by the pool in this 5 day Phuket itinerary, as we want you to have a relaxing vacation and enjoy the number one thing to do in Phuket – visit the beaches.

At the beginning or end of each day, allow some downtime by the pool or on the beach.

After lunch, opt to take a Thai cooking class with Pat. This is your first introduction to Thai culture and a way to mingle with the locals and learn from them.

Visiting Pat’s home and learning to cook Thai food was one of our Phuket highlights.

Pat’s home Thai cooking school first opened in 1996 in Phuket Town and has since been featured in many print media publications and TV programs.

Our experience began in the local market gathering the supplies for the food we were soon to prepare.

We had a lesson in the various uses of vegetables and herbs in Thai cooking as we walked through, picking up each new one to smell and feel the textures.

This introduction was the perfect way to get a feel for the basics of a delicious Thai meal and what sets it apart from the cuisine of its Asian neighbours. I certainly had a better understanding of where I was going wrong with my own attempts of cooking Thai food at home.

Pat’s open aired kitchen is attached to the side of her home and she never has more than 8 people per class , maintaining that small, homely feel.

After a welcome glass of iced lemongrass tea, we donned the aprons and set to work chopping, peeling, mortar and pestle bashing to create some of my favourite Thai meals: tom yum goong, spring rolls, green curry, som tum and banana in coconut milk.

What I loved the most was sharing the experience with Kalyra. She eagerly followed us through the markets learning about the different ingredients and enthusiastically helped me prepare the food. My Junior – Masterchef even rolled a near perfect spring roll.

I was even impressed with my ability to finally produce a delicious Thai meal thanks to Pat’s expert guidance.

Not far from Phuket Town is the stunning Wat Chalong . I was suffering from Bangkok belly on our visit and could barely focus on the aesthetic designs of the temple complex.

We’ve visited a lot of wats in South East Asia, and this one certainly had its own unique flare. Craig was more than impressed and found it to be a perfect temple for those new to Thailand.

The Grand Pagoda dominates the temple grounds–it’s cool and breezy location makes it just as popular as the splinter of Buddha’s bone that rests inside.

The pagoda walls depict Buddha’s life story and immense golden statues of the various Buddha poses sit in the main hall. Choose the one you wish to worship to most.

Pay attention to the fire crackers going off inside the brick oven out the front of the ordination hall. Thai people set them off to celebrate if they receive any good luck.

The Big Buddha sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and is 45 meter high and can be seen far and wide across Phuket.

Not only is it a place of tranquillity to receive your blessings, but it’s one of the best viewpoints in Phuket which has 360 degree views of the island.

The Buddha’s body is layered with Burmese marble which shines in the sun, making it a symbol of hope and a guarding force of protection.

It’s a great place to visit for sunset as it has sweeping views.

I have one rule in Thailand. No Western food allowed.

I would even put it in my black book of crimes you should never commit. My second rule is you should never stop eating, no matter how full you are.

Who cares you cooked up a smorgasbord for lunch, you have had a whole afternoon to digest it. It’s time to top up!

You can have an indulgent Thai dinner at the Thai Thai Restaurant at the Hilton. It’s a great way to ease into Thai cuisine when you’re not ready for street food yet.

Enjoy it, because tomorrow I’m sending you to a night market!

What I love the most about dining out in Thailand – and this restaurant excelled at this – is the outstanding service.

Our head waiter, Pop, was always on hand to ensure we were happy and content. He shared many stories with us of Thailand and his own life, always with an affectionate giggle.

We enjoyed crab cakes and Thai prawn salad for entrees, followed by slow cooked tilapia in coconut milk and Phuket yellow noodles.

I had to finish dinner with my favourite Thai desert—mango and sticky rice; Craig opted for the coconut ice cream and tried unsuccessfully to convince me his was better.

Lucky Kalyra was asleep in the chair or she would have backed him.

Now you can go back to your room and collapse. The pillows will mould around your head so you feel like you are sleeping on clouds.

Day 2: Phang Ngha Bay Boat Tour

Your day will start early so first stop will be the poolside breakfast buffet. Eat up as today is a BIG day!

Stop 1: Go on the James Bond Island Tour of Phang Nga Bay (Full Day)

I never wanted to go on his tour before because it was so James Bond focused, and I have never watched a movie.

Our friend Roger recommended it as one of his favorite things to do in Phuket , so we decided to give it a chance.

James Bond Island was made famous by his movie “ The Man with the Golden Gun ” It does not mean much to me, but the island itself is very picturesque and photo worthy.

Check prices and availability for James Bond Island Day Trips here.

Many of our followers on facebook recommended the Sea Canoes as the best way to enjoy the limestone tunnels and caves.

This was not really an option with our little ones, so we did a full day tour taking in four of the islands in the Phang Nga Bay area.

The seas were a little rough and the water murky, but if you arrived on a day when the Andaman Sea was blazing with its crystal clear emerald waters and the dramatic limestone mountains, I’d imagine it would be stunning.

The floating Muslim village at Koh Paynee was a fascinating stop.

The silted homes joined together in the mud swamps in front of a large limestone rock island was started 200 years ago by 3 Indonesian families now hosts nearly 1700 people and over 300 families.

We really loved our small kayak tour through the mangroves and tunnels of one island and swimming at Naka Island . It’s a full day tour and popular, but an enjoyable day out.

Do not delay in heading straight to the After Beach Bar on the hill behind Kata Noi. This place is legendary for sunset drinks and a relaxed vibe.

We arrived here after a day of cruising the beaches of the West Coast of Phuket. As soon as we arrived and saw the amazing views and felt the cool breeze we were happy.

It didn’t even faze us that we had chosen the one day in our two weeks in Thailand that was cloudy!!

Luckily there was a small break in the clouds so we were able to see a beautiful pink orb poking through.

Sit back with a cocktail and enjoy. Just don’t order a mojito – they were awful and they tried to charge me for three of them!

If you are not too exhausted, head to the Karon temple night markets held every Tuesday and Saturday night for some incredible street food and to shop for souvenirs.

The shopping here is cheap! It is mostly clothes with the odd tourist artifacts like lanterns and Buddha statues thrown in.

You can even pick up a cheap bowl of curry noodles for 30 baht and Thai banana pancake for 40 baht.

Day 3: Culture Day: Thai Massage, Phuket Old Town, Cabaret Show

After a long day on the boat yesterday, you might want to give yourself a little treat. I highly recommend you get yourself a Thai massage at least once on your trip.

Alternatively, you can visit a resort spa and opt for a relaxing hot stone massage or aromatherapy treatment.

You cannot come to Thailand without worshipping your body with a Thai massage. Crime number 10 to never commit in Thailand!

We’d already had our cheap 200 baht massage in Bangkok before arriving to Phuket and would definitely say it’s a good idea to get one before a flight home.

If you’re not familiar with the concept of a Thai massage, allow me to explain.

A Thai massage is a traditional form of bodywork that originated in Thailand over 2,500 years ago.

It is a type of massage that combines acupressure, stretching, and deep tissue techniques to help release tension and promote relaxation.

During a Thai massage, you typically lie on a mat on the floor while the practitioner uses their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure to various points on the body.

The massage therapist may also use gentle stretching movements to help improve flexibility and range of motion.

Essentially it’s a cross between massage and some kind of sports yoga.

Thai massage has many benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving circulation, boosting energy levels, and reducing muscle tension and pain.

Thai massage is often performed fully clothed, without the use of oils or lotions. It is becoming increasingly popular in western countries as a way to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind.

If this doesn’t sound relaxing to you, you can ramp up the feel good factor with a special spa treatment.

They may be expensive in comparisons to the ones you can get on the beach or in a room with 10 other people, but in comparison to Australian prices they’re really quite cheap.

A body scrub and a Thai-herbal-heat massage later we felt like new and improved version of ourselves. We possibly couldn’t get any more relaxed.

Disclaimer: Our stay at Hilton Arcadia was hosted in part by Thailand Tourism and Hilton Arcadia Phuket, though all thoughts, ideas and opinions in this guide are our own.

After a massage, you are probably feeling more energized and ready to explore. So take a trip over to Old Town Phuket, a charming and historic district located in the heart of Phuket.

One of the main reasons to visit Old Town Phuket is its fascinating mix of architecture. The district is home to beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings, some of which date back to the 19th century.

These buildings give visitors a glimpse into Phuket’s colonial past and offer a unique backdrop for exploring the area.

In addition to its stunning architecture, Old Town Phuket is also home to a vibrant street art scene.

Keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti that adorn the walls of many buildings throughout the district.

After exploring Old Town Phuket, head over to Patong Beach to try your hand at some watersports.

Patong Beach is a great place to try parasailing, jet skiing, or even just rent a kayak or stand up paddle board and hit the ocean.

If you’ve never tried any adventurous water sports before, this is a great place to try it because the prices are cheap and the bay is sheltered so you don’t get a huge strong wind blowing you in all directions.

One of the best things to do in Phuket at night is to attend a cabaret show.

A cabaret show in Phuket is a unique and entertaining experience that allows you to dive into Phuket’s long-standing traditions and history.

The shows are known for their elaborate costumes, stunning stage design, and talented performers. They offer a variety of performances, from traditional Thai dances to contemporary pop numbers, the shows cater to all tastes and interests.

The performances are also family-friendly, making them a great activity for travelers of all ages.

Check prices and availability for Simon Cabaret Show here.

Day 4: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip

Another popular day trip from Phuket is to the Phi Phi Islands, which are arguably the most beautiful islands in the Thailand archipelago.

You can stay on the larger of the two islands, Don Phi Phi, if you have more time, but it’s also easy to see the highlights on a day trip.

Check prices and availability for Phi Phi Islands Day Trips here.

The tour departs from Phuket at around 8am in the morning and you will hop into a speedboat or long tail boat and head to Phi Phi Islands. I would suggest getting a speedboat tour as they are faster, so you can visit more stops.

The first stop is Maya Bay, usually. The boat tours may swap these stops around so you can visit Maya Bay at a time when there are less people.

It’s the highlight of a Phi Phi Islands day tour because it’s Thailand’s most beautiful beach. It was made famous after it appeared in the movie The Beach starring Leonardo Dicaprio and is a protected beach.

It was closed for around five years or so due to overtourism, but now it’s open again for day tours only. You cannot swim in the beach, but it’s beauty is worth the journey.

You can sit back and admire the stunning limestone cliffs that surrounding it, and maybe even spot a black-tip reef shark in the water if you’re lucky.

The next stop is Pileh Lagoon, a hidden gem located between tall cliffs. It’s a great place to swim in the emerald-green waters of the lagoon and take in the breathtaking views around you.

If you didn’t see much marine life swimming in the lagoon, then don’t worry. The next stop is a snorkel spot at one of the best spots in Phi Phi Islands.

It’s usually a spot around Viking Cave, a sea cave that looks out into the open waters of the Andaman Sea.

Here is a great spot to discover the colorful coral and marine life that inhabit the waters, and marvel at the beauty of the underwater world.

I mentioned earlier that Don Phi Phi Island is the largest island in the Phi Phi Islands and is much more developed than the others.

It’s a great place for lunch at a local restaurant and to browse the market shops that line the two streets on the island.

Usually, if the weather is good, the tour will end with a swimming spot at a remote uninhabited island.

Usually, you will visit Bamboo Island, a small and secluded island with clear waters perfect for swimming.

Soak up the sun on the white sandy beach or swim in the crystal clear waters before you relax on the boat and enjoy the ride back to Phuket.

Day 5: Elephant Sanctuary, Bang Pae Waterfall, Promthep Cape

On the last day, we will visit some of the lesser known attractions and wildlife sanctuaries.

Visiting an elephant sanctuary is one of the most popular and rewarding experiences in Thailand, and allows tourists to see these majestic animals up close while supporting their welfare and conservation efforts.

One of the main reasons to visit an elephant sanctuary in Phuket is the opportunity to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

However, not all sanctuaries provide a safe and ethical environment for elephants, so you do need to do your research carefully.

An ethical sanctuary allows you to observe them roaming freely, socializing with other elephants, and engaging in natural behaviors such as bathing and grazing but without getting involved.

Most of the elephants have been rescued from the tourism or logging industries.

Check prices and availability for Elephant Sanctuaries here.

Bangae Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction in Phuket’s Khao Phra Thaeo National Park.

One of the main reasons to visit Bang Pae Waterfall is its breathtaking beauty.

It is the largest and most impressive waterfall on the island, with water cascading down a series of rocky tiers.

You can cool off in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls or take a dip in the natural pools along the trail.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bang Pae Waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest, making it a great place to explore and hike.

Another great sunset spot in Phuket is Promthep Cape, located at the southernmost point of Phuket island.

One of the main reasons to visit Promthep Cape is its breathtaking views. The cape overlooks the Andaman Sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and surrounding mountains.

The sunset views from Promthep Cape are particularly stunning and draw large crowds of visitors every evening.

The best way to get around Phuket is to hire a scooter and drive yourself. It’s going to save you money, and also allows you the freedom to travel at your own pace.

With a family, a scooter isn’t a good option, but you can also hire a car as well.

Alternatively, you can take taxis. This is a convenient and reliable way to get around Phuket. They can be found at Phuket International Airport, major hotels, and tourist areas.

However, taxi fares in Phuket can be expensive, especially for long distances, so you might want to use a ride-share app such as Grab or Bolt.

Tuk-tuks are an experience in Thailand. They are three-wheeled vehicles that are a popular mode of transportation in Phuket.

They are cheaper than taxis, but prices can be negotiated, so it’s important to agree on a price before getting in.

Songthaews are like bus versions of tuk tuks. They are converted pickup trucks that operate as shared taxis.

They are a budget-friendly option, but routes and schedules can be limited, and they also take a long time to get from A to B, making them less convenient for travelers with specific plans.

The best time to visit Phuket depends on your preferences and travel plans, but winter is our prefered time of year to visit.

Phuket has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year, though it does have a long rainy season from June to October which can get in the way of your beach time.

The peak tourist season in Phuket is from November to February, when the weather is generally sunny and dry. December is the busiest month and can be crowded, so book accommodation and tours in advance.

The temperatures during this time are milder, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach hopping.

The sea is also calm during these months, making it ideal for water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

March to May is the hot season in Phuket, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C.

April is also a time when you see pollution from the north come down to the south, which doesn’t usually reach Phuket, but it does mean you get a lot of people fleeing the north to escape the pollution and residing in Phuket.

So, expect accommodations to be booked up in these months as well.

This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable during the day, but the evenings are cooler and perfect for exploring the island’s nightlife scene.

Final Thoughts on This 5 Day Phuket Itinerary

Phuket is an island that offers so much to see and do, and 5 days is the perfect amount of time for those looking to explore the island’s diverse attractions and experiences.

I hope this Phuket itinerary gave you some inspiration about what to do and how to spend your days in Phuket.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us in the comments.

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I will be on VG from June 5 to June 12. I'm looking for a day trip to island hop, snorkel, and lunch for my wife and I. Either private or part of a group. I would like to keep the expense to $1000 including tips. Any suggestions.

2 replies to this topic

I highly recommend DiveBVI. We've done numerous private and join in trips and the join ins have always been our favorites. And they are very reasonable for an entire day out. They run about $165/pp not including lunch and tip.

I'd recommend the Island Hopper for a first timer. All the best stops.

Can't really think of any full day private charters where you wouldn't go above that budget anyway.

Thank you very much for the recommendation.

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• Bicycle rental on Tortola and maybe Gorda Apr 26, 2024
• A place to go dancing into the night? Apr 25, 2024
• BVI Water Taxi Company Apr 25, 2024
• St. John regular looking to try Tortola Apr 22, 2024
• Is Tortola crowded on days when cruises dock? Apr 22, 2024
• Fly into STT or Tortolla then ferry Apr 20, 2024
• Charlotte amalie ferry Apr 19, 2024
• 50th Birthday Celebration Apr 18, 2024
• moving to BVI 20 replies
• Which is better? British VI or the US? 12 replies
• Flights & best time to visit 7 replies
• Tortola vs. St. John, USVI 8 replies
• Verizon wireless coverage in BVI? 2 replies
• San Juan-Tortola customs 20 replies
• Jelly fish in the Caribbean?? 5 replies
• BVI vs. St. Lucia? 3 replies
• Sailing Trip: Packing Questions 18 replies
• Verizon cell phone service in BVI 3 replies

British Virgin Islands Hotels and Places to Stay