AVALON BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Undersea Expedition: Viewing Catalina’s Garibaldi and Bat Rays from Lover’s Cove
Aboard the Sea Wolf and Emerald semi-submersibles operated by the Santa Catalina Island Company, this excursion takes you into Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve to observe Catalina’s vibrant marine life from a climate‑controlled cabin.
Undersea Expedition: Viewing Catalina’s Garibaldi and Bat Rays from Lover’s Cove.
Adventure brief
Undersea Expedition: Viewing Catalina’s Garibaldi and Bat Rays from Lover’s Cove
Embark on an undersea expedition in Avalon that places you inside a spacious, climate‑controlled cabin with personal portholes aboard the Sea Wolf and Emerald semi‑submersibles. From these vessels you can explore Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve and witness the vivid marine life the area is known for, including Garibaldi and bat rays, in one of the world’s healthiest marine environments.
Embark on the thrilling Undersea Expedition zipline adventure in Avalon, California, and experience an unforgettable blend of oceanic beauty and adrenaline-pumping fun. This private tour offers a unique perspective of Catalina Island's stunning coastline, soaring high above the azure waters with panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. As you glide from platform to platform, you'll get an exhilarating overview of the diverse marine environment below and the rugged cliffs that surround Avalon. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, this activity combines the rush of ziplining with the serenity of ocean vistas. Your expert guides from Santa Catalina Island Company ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey, sharing fascinating insights about the local wildlife and history. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a memorable outdoor experience, the Undersea Expedition provides an exciting way to explore California's coast from a fresh perspective. Bring friends or family and create lasting memories with this privately guided adventure that pairs fun, fitness, and stunning scenery in one incredible package.
Route Schematic
Itinerary at a glance
Typical stops and viewing zones on the Undersea Expedition.
Boarding in Avalon
Passengers board the Sea Wolf or Emerald in Avalon and prepare for the semi‑submersible voyage.
Transit to Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve
The vessels travel to Lover’s Cove, the protected marine preserve that is the focus of the trip.
Undersea viewing at Lover’s Cove
Passengers observe the preserve’s marine life—Garibaldi, bat rays and other local species—through the cabin’s portholes and viewing areas.
Return to Avalon
After the viewing period the vessels return to Avalon for disembarkation.
Confirm any participant restrictions or operational details directly with the Santa Catalina Island Company prior to booking; operator guidance should be followed for boarding and route changes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Semi‑submersibles with comfort and access
The Sea Wolf and Emerald semi‑submersibles provide a spacious, climate‑controlled cabin and personal portholes that let passengers watch underwater life without getting wet.
Garibaldi, bat rays and a thriving reef
Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve is home to abundant species; on this trip you can expect to see bright Garibaldi and bat rays among other marine life in one of Catalina’s healthiest underwater habitats.
Lover’s Cove: protected and accessible
The excursion centers on Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve off Avalon, offering protected waters that support clear viewing and concentrated marine biodiversity.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
You board a semi‑submersible in Avalon and settle into a climate‑controlled cabin fitted with individual portholes. The vessels move into Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve, where passengers can scan the underwater scene for Garibaldi, bat rays and other life while remaining dry and comfortable—free to move about the cabin and peer through personal viewing ports.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this excursion suits—and who should check first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The semi‑submersibles feature a spacious, climate‑controlled cabin and personal portholes for viewing; bring any personal items you need for comfort aboard the vessel.
This Undersea Expedition operates out of Avalon and is run by the Santa Catalina Island Company.
Passengers will view marine life from within the cabin aboard the Sea Wolf or Emerald semi‑submersibles while the vessels operate in Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Which vessels are used for the Undersea Expedition?
The excursion uses the Sea Wolf and the Emerald semi‑submersibles.
Where does the trip take place?
The trip operates out of Avalon and visits Lover’s Cove Marine Preserve.
Who operates the Undersea Expedition?
The Santa Catalina Island Company operates this excursion.
What marine life might we see?
Passengers can expect to see species such as Garibaldi and bat rays in the preserve.
What are the viewing conditions on board?
Viewing is inside a spacious, climate‑controlled cabin with personal portholes that allow passengers to observe underwater life without getting wet.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:48:58.606Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.