Blue Caverns is one of Catalina Island’s premier dive sites, renowned for its stunning underwater rock formations and vibrant marine life. Located on the island’s front side, this site is more accessible than some others, but conditions like currents and visibility can vary, making it best suited for Intermediate to Advanced Certified Divers with 15+ dives. The caverns feature dramatic swim-throughs and walls, with depths ranging from 30ft/9m to 80ft/24m.
The area is teeming with marine life, including schools of fish, sea fans, and occasional sightings of playful sea lions. The clear waters and unique cavern structures offer exceptional photo opportunities, especially when sunlight filters through the openings, creating a blue glow.
Ship Rock Reef (Third Dive)
The third dive of the day takes you to Ship Rock Reef, a nearby site known for its iconic rock formation rising from the ocean floor. This dive offers its home to colorful invertebrates, kelp beds, and schools of fish. The reef’s structure provides sheltered areas for exploring, making it a perfect contrast to the caverns while still offering rich biodiversity.
Buying Tickets
Each diver must purchase their own ticket online, by calling 310-398-5759, or in person at the dive center in advance. For multiple divers, please make separate online transactions to provide unique contact info for online waivers.
Boarding
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Arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour before departure, typically 7am, so plan to be there between 6am and 6:15am.
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Check in with the divemaster on board and complete required documentation.
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Present your certification; proof of recent diving (e.g., log book from the last 12 months) may be requested.
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Bring all required dive equipment—no rentals are available on departure day.
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Notify the divemaster if you need a dive buddy. There’s no in-water guide, only a surface divemaster for briefings. Plan your dive with a certified buddy. (Call ahead to hire a private guide if desired.)
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Solo diving requires solo diver certification and appropriate equipment.
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No spearfishing, but responsible lobster catching is allowed with a valid CA license. Leave large lobsters for reproductive health.
Cancellations
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7-day Policy: No cancellations or rescheduling within 7 days of departure, but tickets can be transferred to another diver with a name change notification.
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Weather cancellations, though rare, may occur. We’ll notify you as early as possible, and rain checks will be issued for future trips.
What to Expect
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Seasickness: Consider motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness (recommended).
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Meals: Bring your own food and drinks.
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Dive Sites: The captain selects the best anchoring spot based on visibility, tides, currents, and weather.
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Gratuity: $20-$30 per person is standard. Exceptional service warrants a larger tip.
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Equipment: Bring all personal dive gear. No rentals, including tanks or weights, are available on the boat.
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Rental: Rent equipment from a local dive shop the day before if needed.
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Waivers: Mandatory online waivers must be completed.
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Minors: Divers under 18 require a parent or guardian at check-in for waivers and supervision during the trip.
