Island Packers, the official concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, is expanding its non-landing schedule to include Summer Whale Watching excursions until mid-September to view some truly 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 there 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 dolphins, seals, and sea lions. Located in scenic Ventura Harbor Village, Island Packers invites visitors to plan on booking this “must-see” experience as part of seasonal summer fun for the entire family.
Historically, more than 28 species of whales and dolphins have been identified within the waters of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and the newly designated Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area. During the summer months, humpback whales are the most frequently seen species in the Santa Barbara Channel. Their powerful breaches and elegant tail flukes are awe-inspiring reminders of the wild beauty that thrives just beyond the shores. As both a National Marine Sanctuary and a designated Whale Heritage Area, this region plays a vital role in supporting humpback whale populations by offering rich feeding grounds and a safe habitat. It also serves as a dynamic outdoor classroom, inspiring people of all ages to connect with and care for the ocean. With sightings of humpbacks steadily increasing along the Southern California coast, their return stands as a hopeful symbol of resilience and a call to action to continue safeguarding the marine ecosystems.
Whale watching departs at 10 AM every Thursday from Island Packers deck from Ventura Harbor and returns at approximately 4 PM, at which time guests can enjoy more time by the shore at Ventura Harbor Village. Adults are $84; Seniors $79; and Children ages 3-12 $69.00.
Anacapa Island Shoreline Cruises (Non-Landing) 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. Half-day trips operate on an approximately daily basis on Fridays through Mondays from 9:30 AM to 1 PM. or 1:30 to 5 PM, with departures from Ventura Harbor Village in Ventura and Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard on various dates. Adults are $47; Seniors $43; and Children ages 3-12 $34.
Island Landing Trips, from Ventura Harbor Village, offer other opportunities for visitors to view whales and dolphins during the channel crossing to land on Anacapa and at Santa Cruz Island or at Santa Rosa. Fares start from $70 per adult to $124 for a day trip, and $93 up to $182 per adult fare to camp on one of the islands.
In addition to Island Packers seasonal excursions, travelers can top off their day at Ventura Harbor Village’s idyllic sun-kissed playground, pairing their time at sea with some “dine and drink” options at some of the best waterfront eateries, including fresh seafood and a variety of cuisines; shopping at coastal-inspired boutiques; and renting a boat, kayak or paddle board at Ventura Boat Rentals. For more information, visit www.venturaharborvillage.com.