Photo By David Beeninga.
VENTURA — Coinciding with the busy summer season, Island Packers is expanding its non-landing schedule to include Summer Whale Watching excursions through mid September to view some truly extraordinary magnificent mammals.
Passengers on Summer Whale Watching trips, departing Ventura Harbor Village, have an excellent chance to view several whale species in the Santa Barbara Channel, who migrate here to feed on the abundant shoals of baitfish and krill. Summer species that can be seen include blue whales, fin whales, and humpbacks, as well as marine life such as common dolphin, seals, and sea lions.
Historically, more than 28 species of whales and dolphins have been identified within the waters of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. A day spent on the ocean in the company of these creatures can be an awe-inspiring and truly a memorable experience. The boat departs at 10:00 a.m. from Island Packers deck and returns at approximately 4:00 p.m. at which time guests can enjoy more time by the shore at Ventura Harbor Village. Fare: Adults $75.00; Seniors $70; and Children age 3-12 $60.00.
Anacapa Island Half-Day Wildlife Cruises to the north shore of the island offer views of the historic lighthouse, the highly-photographed arch rock, and allows a closer look at California sea lions, spotted harbor seals and occasionally dolphins or whales. Trip options are from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and departs from Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. Fare: Adults $44; Seniors $40; and Children $31.
About Island Packers:
As the official concessioner to Channel Islands National Park, Island Packers has been providing island transportation and wildlife viewing in the Santa Barbara Channel for more than 55 years. Captains and crews on all trips have many years of experience finding and viewing wildlife. Their thoughtful narration informs guests about the history, human impact, and unique characteristics of the channel and wildlife encountered.
Visit Island Packers official website www.islandpackers.com or call 805-642-1393 for more information and details on regularly scheduled transportation to the Channel Islands, specialty trips and to view the marine sightings.
About Ventura Harbor Village:
Situated along the picturesque California Central Coast, endowed with breathtaking views, Ventura Harbor Village is the waterfront seaside attraction in the Ventura Harbor, bordered by the City of Ventura on three sides and the Pacific Ocean on the West. Ventura Harbor is 20 miles from Santa Barbara and is 60 miles from Los Angeles and just minutes off scenic US Highway 1 and 101. The Ventura Harbor offers several sandy beaches for beach-goers, and wide open spaces for boating & recreation. The Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center makes it home in Ventura Harbor.
For information regarding Ventura Harbor Village, visit Ventura Harbor Village or call 805-477-0470. Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura. Post, share, and like #VenturaHarbor