Few vacations start before you even arrive, but getting to Catalina is part of the adventure. Ocean breezes, frolicking dolphins and watching for whales are all part of the trip, as are comfortable seats, a snack bar and a range of libations of the over-21 variety. Most Catalina ferry boats take a little over an hour. If you choose to take the helicopter, you'll have to forego the aforementioned snack bar and libations, but you'll get a spectacular trip and the adrenaline rush of flight to make up for it.

Cross Channel Boats

There are two companies offering Catalina Island ferry transportation from four ports. Most voyages take about an hour. 

Catalina Express

The largest company also has the most boats and most departures. They operate from San Pedro, Dana Point and Long Beach. Call (800) 481-3470.

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Catalina Passenger Service

They operate the Newport Flyer out of Newport Beach. There's a daily departure most months and weekend departures most of the rest. Call (800) 830-7744.

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IEX HELICOPTER SERVICE

Scheduled helicopter transportation to Catalina Island is available from Long Beach with charter service available from several other Southern California locations, including San Pedro and John Wayne Airport. 

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