Welcome aboard!
The details below are general, but the details specific to your reservation including payment information, itinerary and meeting times, departure times and locations, cancellation policies, and other reservation details can be found in the document attached to your confirmation letter. Be sure to review your confirmation letter and its attachment in detail as it has information specific to your reservation. However, continue reading below for information related to park regulations, packing lists, driving directions, and other tips that will prepare you for your upcoming outdoor experience with
Channel Islands Outfitters!
The National Park Service limits the number of visitors allowed to visit Channel Islands National Park each day in an effort to preserve and protect the natural resources found in and around the Channel Islands. As one of the lucky few fortunate enough to visit these amazing islands, you will need to be aware of the following policies at this National Park:
Pack-‐In, Pack-‐Out: there are no trash receptacles at any of the islands.
Take only photos, leave only footprints: everything at the islands is protected so
please leave things where you find them.
Pack food in hard cases or canvas bags: Plastic bags can be carried away in the
wind and marine animals mistake these as food. The National Park Service requests that you use backpacks, hard coolers, canvas bags, or other durable carriers for food.
No fires: Charcoal and wood fires are prohibited. If you smoke, you must do so at the
water’s edge.
Keep the wildlife wild: Feeding wildlife, intentionally or by mistake, can have
deadly effects on the animals. Keep all food secure at all times, and be aware that ravens can open zippers on backpacks.
What is the weather like at Channel Islands National Park? Check the current marine
forecast
Be prepared for your adventure! Always dress in layers.
Below is a list of day trips to Channel Islands National Park offered by Channel Islands Outfitters as well as a list of recommended items that visitors should
consider bringing with them in order to be fully prepared for their island adventure. The packing list below applies to the following day trips:
Day Trips Departing From Ventura or Channel Islands Harbor
Caves & Coves Kayaking Adventure at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island Kelp Forest Snorkeling Tour at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island ½ Day Caves and Coves at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island Marine Reserve Multi-‐Sport at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island
Arches of Anacapa Kayaking Adventure at Anacapa Island
Santa Barbara Island Circumnavigation at Santa Barbara Island
þLunch and snacks; guests may store food in containers and are encouraged to bring their own hard plastic coolers or durable bags
þ Reusable water bottle
þ Bathing suit which will be worn under your wetsuit
þ Towel
þ Warm clothing for the ferry ride to and from Channel Islands National Park
þ Water shoes that cover the whole foot and have a heel strap. Do not wear flip flops.
þ Hat or visor
þ Synthetic layer for extra warmth such as rashguard, polypro top or other synthetic top
þ Sunscreen
þ Lip balm
þ Sunglasses with a safety strap (example: Chums or Croakies)
þ Waterproof camera or camera with waterproof case for camera
þ Personal medication
Secure storage is available at Scorpion Ranch.
No secure storage is available at Anacapa or Santa Barbara Island.
Day Trips Departing From Santa Barbara Harbor
Painted Cave Kayaking Adventure at Painted Cave, Santa Cruz Island
1-‐Day Diving Trips at locations throughout Channel Islands National Park
þReusable water bottle
þBathing suit which will be worn under your wetsuit
þTowel
þWarm clothing for the boat ride to and from Channel Islands National Park
þWater shoes that cover the whole foot and have a heel strap. Do not wear flip flops.
þHat or visor
þSynthetic layer for extra warmth such as rashguard, polypro top or other synthetic top
þSunscreen
þLip balm
þSunglasses with a safety strap (example: Chums or Croakies)
þWaterproof camera or camera with waterproof case for camera
þPersonal medication
Camping At Channel Islands National Park
Packing Notes: Each bag or piece of luggage going to and from Channel Islands National Park must weigh less than 45 lbs. Water and cooler will be packed separately from other equipment and luggage, and placed on the rear deck of the ferry as indicated by the vessel’s crew. Fuel will be stored above deck in a separate container offered by the ferry transportation provider. Do not store fuel in your bags or luggage.
þBoots for hiking
þWool or synthetic clothing as appropriate for the season in which you are visiting including base and insulating layers
þWeather resistant jacket or shell
þBeanie or warm hat
þHat or visor for sun
þGloves or mittens (if appropriate)
þSunglasses
þBinoculars (optional)
þSunblock
þCompass (optional)
þWater bottles
þHeadlamp or flashlight and extra batteries
þBandana
þCamera
þTravel size soap, shampoo and/or body wash
þToothpaste and toothbrush
þHand sanitizer
þSmall towel or synthetic camp towel
þTowelettes or Handi-‐Wipes (optional)
Scorpion Ranch Campground Details: The beginning of the campground is ¼ of a mile from the beach and extends another ¼ mile to the edge of Scorpion Valley. Keep in mind you will have to walk all of your gear to your camp, so pack accordingly!
Wear synthetic or other non-‐cotton fabrics only: For all activities where a participant may become wet, such as kayaking, be sure to avoid wearing any and all cotton fabric. Once saturated, cotton ceases to insulate, can make the wearer more cold, and dries very slowly. Fabrics such as wool, polypropylene, and synthetic blends are recommended.
For
Departures from Ventura Harbor
, which include the following island adventures:Caves & Coves Kayaking Adventure at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island Kelp Forest Snorkeling Tour at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island ½ Day Caves and Coves at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island Marine Reserve Multi-‐Sport at Scorpion Anchorage, Santa Cruz Island
Arches of Anacapa Kayaking Adventure at Anacapa Island [also departing Channel Islands Harbor, check your confirmation letter for departure location]
Santa Barbara Island Circumnavigation at Santa Barbara Island All travelers meet at Island Packers office and launch area located at: Island Packers Company
1691 Spinnaker Drive Ventura, CA 93001
Checking In: If traveling under a reservation created by Channel Islands Outfitters, check in with your guide upon arrival at Island Packers. A Channel Islands Outfitters guide will be wearing attire that prominently features the Channel Islands Outfitters logo shown at right. If unable to locate a Channel Islands Outfitters guide, step into the Island Packers office and ask their front desk staff it assist you in locating a Channel Islands Outfitters guide.
Directions for Southbound Hwy 101
Exit Hwy 101 South at Seaward Avenue. Turn left upon exiting, onto Harbor Blvd.
Travel approximately 1.75 miles, and turn right onto Spinnaker Drive.
Turn right into Ventura Harbor Village entrance #4. The Island Packers office and check-‐in area is located in the white two-‐story building with free parking available for national park visitors.
Directions for Northbound Hwy 101 Exit Hwy 101 North at Victoria Ave. Turn left upon exiting, onto Victoria Ave.
Travel approximately 0.5 miles, and turn right onto Olivas Park Drive.
Follow Olivas Park Drive, as it crosses Harbor Blvd, the road becomes Spinnaker Drive. Continue on Spinnaker Drive, turning right into Ventura Harbor Village entrance #4.
The Island Packers office and check-‐in area is located in the white two-‐story building with free parking available for national park visitors.
For
Departures from Channel Islands Harbor
, which include the following island adventures:Arches of Anacapa Kayaking Adventure at Anacapa Island [also departing Channel Islands Harbor, check your confirmation letter for departure location]
All travelers meet at Island Packers office and launch area located at: Island Packers Company
3550 Harbor Blvd Oxnard, CA 93035
Checking In: If traveling under a reservation created by Channel Islands Outfitters, check in with your guide upon arrival at Island Packers. A Channel Islands Outfitters guide will be wearing attire that prominently features the Channel Islands Outfitters logo shown at right. If unable to locate a Channel Islands Outfitters guide, step into the Island Packers office and ask their front desk staff it assist you in locating a Channel Islands Outfitters guide.
Directions for Southbound Hwy 101
Exit Hwy 101 South at Seaward Avenue. Turn left upon exiting, onto Harbor Blvd.
Travel approximately 7 miles, and veer right to remain on Harbor Blvd. Turn left onto Cabezone Circle and park in front of the Marine Emporium. Directions for Northbound Hwy 101
Exit Hwy 101 North at Victoria Ave. Turn left upon exiting, onto Victoria Ave.
Travel approximately 5 miles, and turn right onto Channel Islands Blvd. Turn left onto W Channel Islands Blvd/S Harbor Blvd.
Turn left onto Cabezone Circle and park in front of the Marine Emporium.
Departures from Santa Barbara Harbor
, including the following island adventures:Painted Cave Kayaking Adventure at the western portion of Santa Cruz Island All travelers meet the Sea Landing launch area located at:
Truth Aquatics at the Sea Landing 301 W. Cabrillo Ave
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Checking In: If traveling under a reservation created by Channel Islands Outfitters, check in with your guide upon arrival at Truth Aquatics. A Channel Islands Outfitters guide will be wearing attire that prominently features the Channel Islands Outfitters logo shown at right. If unable to locate a Channel Islands Outfitters guide, step into the Truth Aquatics office and ask their front desk staff it assist you in locating a Channel Islands Outfitters guide.
Directions for Southbound Hwy 101 Exit Hwy 101 South at Castillo Street.
Turn right onto Cabrillo/Shoreline Drive and proceed to Harbor Way. Turn left into Santa Barbara Harbor at the intersection with Harbor Way.
Take the first left into the parking lot and past the parking kiosk where you will receive a parking pass that can be validated at the Sea Landing.
Continue to the far end of the parking area, approximately .5 mile, through the bike path and to the boat launch area. Do not park in the yellow stalls. Park in the white lined stalls. The Sea Landing and the Truth Aquatics office are located at the far east end of the parking area.
Directions for Northbound Hwy 101 Exit Hwy 101 North at Garden Ave.
Turn left onto Garden Street, driving less than one mile to Cabrillo/Shoreline Drive. Turn right onto Cabrillo/Shoreline Drive and proceed to Harbor Way.
Turn left into Santa Barbara Harbor at the intersection with Harbor Way.
Take the first left into the parking lot and past the parking kiosk where you will receive a parking pass that can be validated at the Sea Landing.
Continue to the far end of the parking area, approximately .5 mile, through the bike path and to the boat launch area. Do not park in the yellow stalls. Park in the white lined stalls. The Sea Landing and the Truth Aquatics office are located at the far east end of the parking area.
No piece of baggage or other item over 45 lbs will be permitted aboard the ferry. Water containers must not exceed 3 gallons per container
All propane, gases, and flammable liquids must be kept separate from gear going into storage and placed in special container as directed by Island Packers crew.
Island Packers will not transport gear with dangling or loose items attached, carts, wagons, dollies, items over 45 lbs, items stored in paper or plastic bags, items stored in cardboard boxes, surfboards over 8 feet in length, outboard motors, rubber rafts, or windsurfing rigs.
Free parking is available. Campers must display a parking pass in their windshield for overnight parking, be sure to get this pass from your guide or Island Packers during check-‐in.
Day trip passengers must arrive NO LATER than 45 minutes prior to the ferry's scheduled departure time. This is a public ferry that departs promptly on the hour. It will not wait for late passengers; plan extra time to account for traffic delays.
Unescorted Travel: Some travelers may rendezvous with their Channel Islands Outfitters’ guide at Channel Islands National Park, such passengers are considered
“unescorted.” If this is scheduled to occur, Channel Islands Outfitters will notify passengers by phone and/or email that unescorted travel is scheduled. Upon arrival at the Island Packers office, passengers must check in with the Island Packers front desk. Island Packers will check in passengers once notified of passenger names traveling and that the passengers are traveling under a Channel Island Outfitters reservation. Following check-‐in with the desk staff, passengers will be instructed to board the ferry and disembark at the scheduled destination. Enjoy the ride, a Channel Islands Outfitters guide will meet passengers at the pier located at the destination within Channel Islands National Park.
Additional Information for Ferry Transportation from
Ventura & Channel Islands Harbor with Island Packers Co.
Additional purchasing: If interested in purchasing snacks, food or beverages while visiting the national park, please note that these items will only be available aboard ferry transportation to and from Channel Islands National Park. Credit cards are not currently accepted aboard the ferry going to and from Channel Islands National Park. Passengers that wish to purchase items must bring cash.
Inclement Weather: For last minute weather cancellation information please
call (805) 642-‐1393 after 5:30 a.m. on the morning of the trip. Please read our cancellation policies for details regarding weather related cancellations to CIO reservations or programs
Physical Conditioning
CIO Adventures include anywhere from 1-‐5 hours of paddling. If you are not already
experienced and comfortable paddling, consider upper body workouts with a partner using light weights or another method of resistance training with which you are experienced and comfortable. Workouts need not last more than 20-‐30 minutes, and should not cause discomfort. Rest in between workout days. Experienced paddlers may consider short excursions with a partner lasting no more than 1 hour to start and gradually working up to 4-‐6 hour trips, resting for water and snacks before becoming too tired while paddling. We recommend you begin assessing your preparedness and training appropriately as far in advance of your departure as possible.
Sea Sickness
Travelers prone to motion sickness should take the following precautionary measures so that they may enjoy travel to and from Channel Islands National Park:
Hydrate – Drink plenty of water 24 hours prior to departure
Rest – Get a good nights sleep the night before your departures
Motion Sickness Medicine -‐ Take as indicated by the medication’s directions and
do not take more than indicated.
Eat A Light Breakfast -‐ Stay away from greasy foods and foods high in acidity.
Gratuity
Gratuity for your guide's hard work and providing a memorable experience is always appreciated, but never expected or required, and shared by all. For corporate events or large parties, gratuity may be paid to your guide or guides via our office following your trip, simply call 805-‐899-‐4925. Industry standard gratuity is between 10% and 15%.
Acknowledgement of Risk
All participants must complete an Acknowledgement of Risk Form prior to participating in any Channel Islands Outfitters activities. Clients unable to fill this form out online may print a copy and bring the completed with them to their rendezvous with a Channel Islands Outfitters guide.
Medical Information
It is the responsibility of each trip member to bring their own personal medications for
conditions such as allergies, bee stings, etc. Our trip leaders carry a basic field first aid kit for the group. If any participant has a medical condition/s or carries medications as a precaution, please notify Channel Islands Outfitters staff prior to departure.
