An Hour to Catalina: A Fullerton Gateway to Island Calm and Adventure

FULLERTON FERRY FIELD GUIDE

An Hour to Catalina: A Fullerton Gateway to Island Calm and Adventure

Catalina Express ferry tickets with optional island tours — daily departures from Long Beach and flexible return options for an 8–10 hour island day.

An Hour to Catalina: A Fullerton Gateway to Island Calm and Adventure.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Fullerton
Operator
Karmel Shuttle's EXTREME Tours
Category
Ferry
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Catalina Island sits 22 miles off the Southern California coast, reachable year‑round in roughly an hour aboard Catalina Express’ fast, modern fleet. The service runs daily from Long Beach Landing and packages a quick sea crossing with a full day on the island — a practical escape for a day of adventure or relaxation.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Fast, smooth crossings on modern boats
THE FERRY

Fast, smooth crossings on modern boats

Catalina Express operates a fleet of fast, smooth, modern boats that make the 22‑mile hop comfortable and quick, turning a coastal morning into an island afternoon.

Daily departures and multiple return options
THE SCHEDULE

Daily departures and multiple return options

Service runs seven days a week with a typical Long Beach departure mid‑morning and return sailings that include afternoon and evening slots; additional boat options can be requested at booking.

A day of adventure and relaxation on Catalina
THE ISLAND

A day of adventure and relaxation on Catalina

The itinerary delivers a memorable day on Catalina — time ashore for walking, tours or simply relaxing — with return times designed to suit different schedules.

What the day feels like

How the day unfolds

Board at Long Beach Landing for a roughly one‑hour crossing on Catalina Express’ modern fast ferries, arrive on Catalina Island for a day of sights or optional tours, then choose from multiple return sailings to fit your schedule — a compact, year‑round island escape.

Fast, smooth crossings on modern boats

THE FERRY

Fast, smooth crossings on modern boats

Catalina Express operates a fleet of fast, smooth, modern boats that make the 22‑mile hop comfortable and quick, turning a coastal morning into an island afternoon.

Daily departures and multiple return options

THE SCHEDULE

Daily departures and multiple return options

Service runs seven days a week with a typical Long Beach departure mid‑morning and return sailings that include afternoon and evening slots; additional boat options can be requested at booking.

A day of adventure and relaxation on Catalina

THE ISLAND

A day of adventure and relaxation on Catalina

The itinerary delivers a memorable day on Catalina — time ashore for walking, tours or simply relaxing — with return times designed to suit different schedules.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits — and what to confirm before you go.

1
Day trippersDesigned as a same‑day island outing (8–10 hours total), this ticketing option fits travelers planning a single‑day visit; confirm return options when you book.
2
FamiliesFamilies seeking a day away can use the daily departures and flexible returns, but confirm boarding and ticketing details with the operator for party needs.
3
Solo travelers and small groupsSolo travelers and small groups will find the straightforward ferry schedule and optional island tours well suited to a compact day trip; contact the operator for additional boat availability if needed.
4
Travelers needing schedule flexibilityIf you require a specific return time, note it at checkout and contact Karmel Connect after booking to request alternate boat options or availability.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Typical outing spans about 8–10 hours with a mid‑morning departure and afternoon/evening return options; the service runs seven days a week.

Booking & Changes

Additional boat options are available; leave a note at checkout and contact Karmel Connect after booking to request alternate sailings.

What to Bring

No specific packing list is provided in the materials; plan for a day ashore and verify any gear recommendations with the operator before travel.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the outing?

The outing is listed as an approximately 8–10 hour day trip.

Where does the ferry depart?

The listed departure point is Long Beach Landing, with a 9:50 a.m. departure noted.

What return times are available?

Return sailings noted include 3:55 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and a seasonal 7:30 p.m.; additional options may be available on request.

Can I request a different boat time?

Yes — additional boat options are available; leave a note at checkout and contact Karmel Connect after booking to request availability.

Who operates this listing?

The operator listed for these tickets and optional tours is Karmel Shuttle's EXTREME Tours.

Is service year‑round?

Catalina Island service is described as year‑round.