7-Day Catalina Yacht Charter Itinerary: Southern California's Island Paradise
Embark on an idyllic Catalina yacht charter, tracing the sun-drenched shores and vibrant coves of Southern California's iconic Channel Islands. This bespoke itinerary invites you to discover the island's unique blend of rugged wilderness and charming coastal towns. From the bustling energy of Avalon to the tranquil beauty of its secluded anchorages, a Catalina yacht charter offers a refreshing escape, where the Pacific breezes and crystal-clear waters beckon you to explore, relax, and indulge in the quintessential California yachting experience.
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Plan this charter
- First planned stop
- Avalon, Catalina Island
- Final planned stop
- Return to Avalon, Catalina Island
Shore plans to discuss with your crew
- Day 1Catalina Casino tour
- Day 1Glass bottom boat excursion
- Day 1Golf cart tour of Avalon hills
- Day 1Shopping along Crescent Avenue
- Day 2Descanso Beach Club access
- Day 2Kayaking or paddleboarding
Confirm joining and departure ports, yacht availability and the daily passage plan before paying a deposit. The captain decides anchorages and any route changes for weather, sea conditions and local restrictions. Shore venues, marine-park permissions and activity bookings require separate confirmation.
Map connections are schematic, not a navigable passage plan. Distances, safe approaches and passage times must be checked by the captain.
Ask for an itemised quotation covering the charter fee, taxes, APA or package expenses, berth charges and any delivery or redelivery costs.
- DAY 01
Avalon, Catalina Island
Arrive in the picturesque town of Avalon, Catalina Island's main hub. Explore the iconic casino building and stroll along Crescent Avenue, soaking in the Mediterranean-like atmosphere.
- Catalina Casino tour
- Glass bottom boat excursion
- Golf cart tour of Avalon hills
- Shopping along Crescent Avenue
- Anchorage
- Avalon Harbor
- Dining
- Bluewater Avalon
- DAY 02
Descanso Bay, Catalina Island
A short cruise from Avalon, Descanso Bay offers a private beach club experience with watersports and relaxed dining. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the sand.
- Descanso Beach Club access
- Kayaking or paddleboarding
- Zip Line Eco Tour (nearby)
- Snorkeling in the clear waters
- Anchorage
- Descanso Bay mooring field
- Dining
- Descanso Beach Club Restaurant
- DAY 03
Two Harbors, Catalina Island
Sail to the rustic charm of Two Harbors, a relaxed village on the narrow Isthmus. This is the gateway to the island's wilder side, perfect for hiking and exploring.
- Hiking to Cat Harbor overlook
- Snorkeling at Isthmus Cove
- Relaxing at the Harbor Sands beach
- Exploring the village's general store
- Anchorage
- Isthmus Cove
- Dining
- Harbor Reef Restaurant
- DAY 04
Emerald Bay, Catalina Island
Anchor in the secluded Emerald Bay, known for its pristine waters and excellent snorkeling. This tranquil spot offers a true escape into nature.
- Snorkeling and free diving
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Exploring the surrounding coves by tender
- Evening stargazing
- Anchorage
- Emerald Bay mooring field
- Dining
- Onboard chef's dinner
- DAY 05
Little Harbor, Catalina Island
Discover Little Harbor, a beautiful, undeveloped cove on the island's windward side. It's a popular spot for camping and offers stunning sunset views.
- Beachcombing on the sandy shore
- Kayaking in the calm waters
- Exploring tide pools
- Sunset views from the yacht
- Anchorage
- Little Harbor mooring field
- Dining
- Beach BBQ prepared by crew
- DAY 06
Cactus Bay & Ben Weston Beach, Catalina Island
Cruise along the rugged southern coast, stopping at Cactus Bay for a swim and then heading to Ben Weston Beach, a remote and expansive sandy stretch.
- Swimming in Cactus Bay
- Beach walking at Ben Weston Beach
- Observing local marine life
- Photography of the wild coastline
- Anchorage
- Ben Weston Beach anchorage
- Dining
- Casual onboard dining
- DAY 07
Return to Avalon, Catalina Island
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruise back to Avalon. Take a final opportunity to explore any missed spots or enjoy a last meal ashore before disembarking.
- Last-minute souvenir shopping
- Relaxing on deck during the cruise
- Visit to the Catalina Island Museum
- Farewell lunch in Avalon
- Anchorage
- Avalon Harbor
- Dining
- The Lobster Trap
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