Island Packers Cruises - Ventura, California

Kevin W.

I took the Island Packer day trip (9a - 4p) cruise to Santa Cruz and it was awesome!

We saw plenty of marine life activity on our way out and back as well as a very interesting feeding frenzy between whales, dolphins, pelicans and seagulls. Spotting animals like whales aren’t guaranteed but I could hear the captain and guides coordinating with other boats to see the best chance.

I sat out back by the bathrooms on the way out and was a bit seasick. The return trip inside the boat was much better.

For those looking to go, I definitely recommend it! Staff are very friendly and ensure everyone gets where they’re supposed to go.

For departure, the email asked us to show up 45 minutes in advance of departure but there was still plenty of time as people queued and gear was loaded onto the boat. Similarly, on the way back, they requested us to meet at the harbor st 3:30p but the boat didn’t arrive until past 4p. Better safe than sorry but just context for folks that may have some extra time to ask about trails before departure or look at foxes around campgrounds for return (with check-in proactively).

Vickie P.

Great experience! Went to Santa Cruz for a kayak tour and traveled with island packers. The ferry ride over was smooth and plenty of seating. We saw a TON of humpback whales and dolphins and some sea lions! It’s awesome they take the time to allow for whale watching as well. Made the channel island experience even more memorable. Went on a whale cruise before in Oregon and wasn’t really plannning to do another because it wasn’t that exciting, this however changed my mind and I would for sure do a whale watching tour (or just the ferry ride over)!

Leslie E.

The BEST (and only) boat to the Islands! I am so impressed with I. P. They have a licensed monopoly on transporting people to the Channel Islands, yet they do NOT abuse that privilege in the least! They are legit’! I’ve been on 14 foot seas, and this last time, glassy smooth seas. Their boats, big Catamarans, smooth out the rolling very well, and are quiet, FAST and comfortable with tons of good places to hang out. They slow, and even change course to see whales and pods of dolphins, giving us all some solid commentary on their habits. They will stop, turn around and snag any floating Mylar balloons they spot from the bridge, as they pose deadly hazards to Marine life. GREAT work! The crews are great, the boats are clean, and safe. By all means, try it! Santa Cruz Island is a wonderland.

Colin S.

I went for Santa Cruz Island and got so much more. The staff on the boat were knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. The boat was clean and comfortable. As a bonus, we saw dolphins, whales and tons of sea birds. Santa Cruz Island was amazing, great hiking with cool weather and lots of different birds and I even saw the island fox.

You won’t see whales every day but it was so much more than I expected. Thank you, Island Packers!

Javier C.

We had a fantastic experience with Island Packers Cruises on our trip to Scorpion Cove! The boat ride was smooth and very comfortable, and we were lucky enough to spot a humpback whale on the way—what a treat! You can buy hot coffee and snacks onboard, which made the journey even nicer.

Once on the island, we had plenty of time to explore. We did a long hike and spotted lots of wildlife, including the famous island foxes and beautiful jays. The landscapes were stunning, and we even found a quiet spot on a cliff to enjoy a short nap with a view of the ocean.

Everything was really well organized, and the crew was friendly and professional. Island Packers did an incredible job from start to finish—highly recommended for anyone wanting to visit Channel Islands National Park!

Wendy M.

Exceptional experience. From their website, to the confirmation emails, waivers, etc. all easy to access and provides all the information you need. We did the day experience to Prisoner's with an excursion to Painted Cove. We did the Pelican Bay hike which was fantastic. We also reserved lunches from Honey Cup coffeehouse which were so tasty on our hike. We ate lunch overlooking the ocean. On our way, we had three humpback whales that liked the attention of all the passengers on board. It was a magical hour that we got to spend with those whales. The captain and crew were patient and loved it just as much as we did. Highly recommend.

Evgeny B.

Amazing experience for the whole family! The crew goes above and beyond for wildlife watching. In our day trips to Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands we saw jumping Humpback whales, a channel full of grey whales with one swimming under the boat, and lots of dolphins playing around the boat! It was also great to combine with hiking on the islands. Did the Potato harbor on Santa Cruz and the Cherry Canyon on Santa Rosa, moderate 4-5 miles each. I personally liked Santa Rosa more, possibly because of wildflowers and a nice view of the Santa Cruz island from there. Santa Rosa did have more of an island feel, while Santa Cruz didn't feel a lot different from hiking near SF. The trip to Santa Rosa was long with a total of 7-8 hours on the boat, but we also got to see more wildlife and sailed into the Pained Cave on the way back.

Gloria G.

I went to the Channel Islands a couple days ago and used island packers to book the ferry ride and it was the most efficient process ever and it couldn’t have been a better time. Definitely remember to pack a lunch. The parking was easy and free. Staff was exceptional and very professional and knowledgeable. The punctuality was outstanding. The boat left at 9:30 on the dot. The boat ride was very enjoyable and I have nothing negative to say. I would recommend this trip to anyone and everyone and would absolutely use the company again. We loved our trip and we got a special visit from a massive pod of dolphins on the way to the island.