Frequently Asked Questions about Catalina scuba diving
Q. What will I see while scuba diving or snorkeling on Catalina Island?
You'll discover a fascinating environment brimming with undersea life, including garibaldi, calico bass, kelp fish, sheepshead, senorita fish and much more. Giant black sea bass are frequently spotted as are moray eels, lobster, octopus and much more. The kelp forest is one of the most beautiful underwater environments on earth.
Q. What if I have to cancel?
There is no penalty for cancellations received 7 days prior to your activity. If you need to cancel between 48 hours and seven days we will attempt to rebook your activity, but you may be assessed a rebooking fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations within 48 hours of your scheduled activity.
No-shows will be charged the full price. If you arrive and your instructor determines that you are not eligible for your activity, either due to lack of certification or a safety issue, you will not be issued a refund. Anyone who arrives under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be allowed to participate and there will be no refund.
Customers will receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.
Q. What's the visibility?
Visibility on the leeward side of the island averages 40-60 feet. It can be up to 70-80 feet, but on the rare occasions when storm surge churns the water, that can drop to 30 feet or less.
Q. How do I get to Catalina Island?
There are two companies that offer ferry service to Catalina Island. Catalina Express offers several departures a day from Long Beach and San Pedro. Catalina Passenger Service operates seasonally and offers one round-trip per day from Newport Beach. IEX Helicopters offers on-demand charter flights from several mainland airports and has a terminal in Long Beach.
Q. Is all gear included in the online scuba rental package?
Yes. (mask, fins, snorkel, booties, gloves, bcd, regulator, 7mm suit, weight and tank)
Q. How cold is the water?
Average surface temperatures are in the high 50s in the winter months and the high 60s in the summer months. Most divers and snorkelers are more comfortable with a wetsuit.
Q. Can you rent fish food?
No. But you can buy it.
Q. What should I bring?
A bathing suit, towel and a sense of adventure
Q. Are there lockers at the Casino Dive Park for our stuff?
No. Our staff keeps an eye on it, while you are in the water on our tours.
Q. Do you offer nitrox?
Yes! We can blend anything you need at our shop on the ground floor of the Catalina Casino Building.
Q. Is there a photographer or can I take my camera on my discover scuba diving tour on Catalina?
PADI regulations are strict about no cameras allowed. Members of our team can be hired to document your underwater adventures.
Q. Is swimming required for any of your tours?
Yes, all of them except for our dolphin watch adventure. You should be comfortable in water over your head, be able to float or tread water for at least a minute and be able to swim at least 25 yards.
Q. Where are you located?
We have two locations, our main shop in the Catalina Casino Building and our original shop, on the green Pleasure Pier.
