Catalina Island: Catamaran Snorkeling Tour with Lunch & Small Group

Summary

Snorkeling Catalina’s reefs on a relaxed catamaran day with lunch

You’ll sail from Bayahibe to Catalina Island on a comfortable catamaran with a small group—snorkeling coral reefs with your guide, sharing lunch onboard near “the Aquarium,” then drifting past Casa de Campo and up the Chavon River before returning. Expect easygoing company, plenty of space to relax, and those little moments you remember later when life gets noisy again.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed onto the Quetzal just after nine—honestly, I was still waking up as we left Bayahibe behind. The crew moved around like they’d done this forever, but in a good way, not rushed. Our guide, Luis, handed out snorkel gear and laughed at my mask hair (I deserved it). The sea was that clear blue you see in postcards but never quite believe is real. I kept sniffing sunscreen and salt while we sailed out toward Catalina Island—about an hour, but it felt shorter with music playing quietly and everyone finding their spot on deck.

The first stop was “the Wall.” I’m not much of a snorkeler—usually too busy worrying about water up my nose—but Luis swam alongside us and pointed out these wild purple corals and a fish that looked like it had lipstick on. When I surfaced, someone else shouted about spotting a ray. There was this moment underwater when all I could hear was my own breathing and the distant clink of someone’s fins hitting rock—kind of peaceful, actually. Then back on board, towels everywhere, people comparing what they saw. It felt friendly without being forced.

Lunch came next as we drifted near the “Aquarium” side of Catalina Island. Nothing fancy—rice, chicken, salad—but after swimming it tasted perfect. Beer and rum flowed if you wanted them; I stuck to soda (sun + rum = nap for me). Later we had time to wander the beach or just flop in the shade. I tried to say thank you in Spanish to one of the crew—pretty sure I butchered it because he grinned and replied in English anyway.

The trip back took its time along Casa de Campo’s coast. Luis started telling stories about movies filmed by the Chavon River—I only recognized Apocalypse Now but nodded along like I knew them all. That river part was green and quiet; birds overhead, thick trees leaning over brown water. Something about that stretch made me want to come back again someday—not for photos or anything big, just for that hush before heading home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and sailing around Catalina Island

• Board Quetzal at 9 am
• Sail one hour to Catalina Island
• Snorkel at The Wall coral reef
• Sail to the Aquarium side
• Enjoy lunch on board catamaran
• Relax on Catalina beach
• Snorkel and observe fish
• Depart at 3 pm to Bayahibe
• Cruise along Casa del Campo coast
• Guided tour of Chavon River jungle

Top questions

How long is the Catalina Island snorkeling tour?

The tour starts at 9 am and returns around 3 pm from Bayahibe.

Is lunch included during the catamaran tour?

Yes, lunch is served onboard near Catalina Island after snorkeling.

Are drinks provided on the boat?

Unlimited beer, rum, soft drinks, and snacks are included during the tour.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included depending on your location.

Do I need snorkeling experience for this trip?

No experience is needed; guides are there to help all levels in small groups.

What should I bring for snorkeling at Catalina Island?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and any personal snorkel gear if preferred.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian meals can be arranged if requested at booking time.

Will there be crowds at Catalina Island?

The schedule is arranged to avoid tourist crowds as much as possible.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off (depending on location), all snorkeling equipment with guidance from local experts, unlimited drinks including beer and rum plus snacks throughout the sail, a buffet-style lunch served onboard near Catalina Island’s “Aquarium,” live commentary from your guide along Casa de Campo’s coast and up Chavon River—and plenty of space to stretch out on the 75-foot catamaran before heading back to Bayahibe in the afternoon.