Channel Islands Liveaboard, September 16th - 19th, only $435
We are excited to return to the Channel Islands in September. On recent trips we have seen horn sharks, soupfin sharks, seals, garibaldi, sheephead, and dozens of species of crabs, lobsters, and nudibranchs. We'll almost certainly see dolphins, humpback or even blue whales between dives. Water temperatures should be in the upper 50s to mid 60s.
This trip is just $435/person for a limited load charter. Boarding is on the evening of the 16th. The price includes 3 nights lodging on the boat, 8 meals, and air fills. We'll do 12 to 14 dives, including 1 or 2 night dives.
This is a great chance to hone your skills, rack up experience, master a new camera, or just relax and do nothing but eat, sleep and dive. Between dives there is napping, reading, cards and kayaking. (Photographers will be fiddling with their electronics)
The trip begins by heading for San Miguel Island to dive Wychoff's Ledge, Tyler Bight and Wilson Rock. If the weather cooperates, we just might stay there, otherwise, we'll start making our way back via Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, and maybe Anacapa Islands. Your trip leaders, Ralph and Olivia are experienced cold water divers. In any event, they will work with the crew to pick the best available sites given conditions and your requests.
To join us:
Make a check out to NCRD and mail it to 204 Primrose Place, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523. If you prefer paypal, send $440 to paypal@rainbowdivers.org and put "Truth Trip" in the comments.
Getting there:
The boat leaves from Sea Landing, 301 W Cabrillo Way, Santa Barabara. The entrance to gated parking is at Harbor Way & Cabrillo. We suggest boarding by 8pm, so you are well rested for the first dive, but we can accommodate late arrivals until 1am. It's about a 5 hour drive from San Jose. Carpools will be organized in the last week before departure.
Other details:
Tanks, weights and other equipment are available for rent right on the dock at Sea Landing. Call 805-963-3564 to reserve your rentals. Sea landing rents low pressure steel 80s and 95s, which are ideal for this boat, for about $10/day. You are welcome to bring your own tanks, but remember that aluminum tanks require 5# more lead. Also, they can only put about 85 or 90 cu ft into a high pressure 100. Validated parking is just $3/day. Please bring or rent a dive computer.
Accommodations are in dormitory style bunks. (Privacy curtains, reading lights and a changing room are provided) Most people hang out in the galley or the top deck between dives. The bunks are equipped with vinyl pads, blankets and pillows. Many people bring sheets or a sleeping bag for extra comfort. Motion sickness is usually not a problem, but ear plugs come in handy on the first night. You are welcome to bring your own beer or wine for after diving. They have fridge space, but not stemware. The food is consistently good. Hot breakfasts are made to order. Snacks, soda, juice, coffee and hot chocolate are self-serve and never run out.
If you have any questions email diveplanner@rainbowdivers.org, or give us a call. Ralph is at 650-804-8301 and Olivia is 925-330-7188.