Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon

Los Angeles , United States

Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon

Active

(516 reviews)

45m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come aboard Catalina Island's newest semi-submarine, the SS Nautilus, and enjoy a deep sea adventure 1,000 leagues beyond your imagination. The main attraction of this unique vessel allows six feet underwater viewing while staying dry so eager seafarers can get up close and face-to-face with schools of fish anticipating treats fired away from custom designed fish food torpedo buttons. Designed after America's first nuclear powered submarine, the USS Nautilus, the 45-minute journey is the destination itself as our captain and his crew ventures out on an exploratory mission to the undersea gardens of Avalon Bay.

Available options

45-Minute Semi-Submarine Tour

What's included

English guide

Detailed itinerary

Explore the Catalina Island's amazing undersea gardens by venturing on an exploratory mission aboard the semi-submersible SS Nautilus. Designed after the USS Nautilus, America's first nuclear powered submarine, this 45-minute 6-feet underwater journey departs from the Green Pier and will cruise to a marine preserved sanctuary known as the Lovers' Cove. Equipped with torpedo buttons, adventurers can create a feeding frenzy right from their viewing porthole for an additional charge. On the way back to the marina, enjoy breathtaking harbor views on the top deck of the submarine. Weather permitting, undersea garden tours depart hourly year round from mid-morning until an hour before sunset.
**we highly suggest you secure transportation to Catalina island prior to booking tour to confirm you can get to the tour as the boat to the island sells out quickly.
Catalina Express or Newport Flyer for your transportation needs.

What's not included

Fish food offered at additional charge during tour. Cash only.

Travel To Catalina Island is not included in ticket price. Tour is located on Catalina Island.

Transportation needed by Ferry to Island -Catalina express or Newport Flyer to get to Island.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

328 reviews

5★

224

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

188 reviews

5★

125

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We are located on Catalina Island, You must secure transportation to the island to take the tour. There are no refunds if you miss the tour

Not wheelchair accessible. Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair

Your tickets will be held at the will-call window for collection on the day of the tour.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Infants (2 years old and under) must be ticketed on a USCG vessel; fare is free-of-charge but fees apply

You MUST arrive 15 minutes prior to boarding to check in. We leave promptly at the scheduled time and cannot wait. When booking travel to the island please make sure to give enough time from arrival to island to get to tour departure location.

Late Policy: The Nautilus expedition departs from only one location. If you arrive late, we are not able to provide you with a refund. Our tours are scheduled to provide you with the best experience possible, and we are not able to make any exceptions if you are late.

Meeting point

Welcome to Catalina! Find us at the Green Pleasure Pier. Check in at our booth at the end of the pier—our ride boards just behind it! Bring your sense of adventure!

Important notes

• Transportation to island is not provided, Please secure transportation prior to booking tour.
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to tour departure time
• Boat tours depart from the Green Pier
• Tours are subject to change or cancellation
• All sales are final. No cancellations, substitutions, or exchanges. A 25% change fee will be charged and paid directly to Catalina Adventure Tours for any itinerary change once the tour is confirmed, subject to availability
• Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Tour departs within walking distance of the cruise port

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its Hollywood glamour, sunny beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class dining and entertainment, LA offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Hollywood Walk of Fame

A must-visit for film and entertainment enthusiasts, the Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities in the entertainment industry.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Santa Monica Pier

An iconic beachfront amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and numerous rides, the Santa Monica Pier offers fun for all ages.

Entertainment Half day Free entry, rides cost extra

Griffith Observatory

A public observatory offering stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign, as well as educational exhibits about space and astronomy.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (some exhibits and shows have fees)

The Getty Center

A world-renowned art museum featuring European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs.

Museum Half day Free (parking fee applies)

Venice Beach

A vibrant beach community known for its boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops, as well as its beautiful sandy beaches.

Beach Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A popular street food item featuring grilled or fried fish in a tortilla, topped with salsa and crema.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with various types of fish, vegetarian options available.

Korean BBQ

A staple of LA's Korean food scene, featuring marinated meats grilled at the table and served with side dishes.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.

Avocado Toast

A trendy dish featuring toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often garnished with eggs, tomatoes, or other toppings.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian, vegan options available.

Tacos al Pastor

A traditional Mexican taco featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Griffith Park Rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park Surfing in Malibu Beach day in Santa Monica Spa day in Beverly Hills Yoga in Venice Beach Visiting museums in Downtown LA Exploring historic sites in Olvera Street

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is the best time to visit for comfortable sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Time Zone (PT), GMT-8 (Standard Time), GMT-7 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

LA is generally safe for tourists, but some areas can be risky, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious at night and in less touristy areas
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Los Angeles International Airport • 20 km from city center
Bob Hope Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Union Station

By bus

Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro Rail system includes several subway and light rail lines that cover most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hollywood Santa Monica Downtown LA Venice Beverly Hills

Day trips

Santa Barbara

150 km from LA • Full day

A charming coastal city known for its Spanish architecture, wineries, and beautiful beaches.

Disneyland Resort

50 km from LA • Full day

A world-famous theme park featuring Disney characters, rides, and attractions for all ages.

Joshua Tree National Park

200 km from LA • Full day or overnight

A unique desert landscape featuring iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Hollywood Bowl Summer Concert Series • June to September LA Pride • June LA County Fair • September to October

Pro tips

Use public transportation or walk whenever possible to avoid traffic and parking issues
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions and events
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots for a more local experience
Be prepared for traffic and congestion, especially during peak hours
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as LA can be hot and sunny year-round