| This fun and educational day provides the perfect way to discover Channel Islands National Park, a “treasure in the sea” that is close to the California mainland, yet worlds apart. Our exploration begins at the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center, featuring a display of marine aquatic life, exhibits focused on the unique character of each island and an observation tower offering one of the best views of Ventura Harbor, the coastline and the Channel Islands. Then, enjoy time at leisure in the picturesque Ventura Harbor Village to take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, browse the boutiques and art galleries and enjoy lunch on your own at a variety of casual waterfront eateries. This afternoon, we’ll embark on a 3 ½ hour narrated wildlife cruise through the waters of Santa Barbara Channel, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Park. Just 12 miles from the California coast, Anacapa Island is the smallest and the closest of the Channel Islands. On this non-landing cruise, we’ll journey along the rugged shoreline and surrounding waters of Anacapa Island with views of the famous Arch Rock, the working lighthouse atop the island and a variety of wildlife. Channel Islands National Park and its ocean environment preserves and protects a wealth of natural and cultural resources. Isolation over thousands of years has created unique animals, plants, and archeological resources found nowhere else on Earth and helped preserve a place where visitors can experience coastal southern California as it once was. Our large passenger vessel features a restroom onboard and offers both indoor and outdoor seating on multiple decks. While traveling across the Santa Barbara Channel our journey may be highlighted by wildlife sightings including dolphins, sea lions and birds. |