Climb aboard the bright yellow Nautilus for an unforgettable semi-submarine adventure in Avalon, California. The Yellow Submarine Tour of Catalina Island lets you explore the vibrant underwater world of the Lover’s Cove marine preserve without getting wet. Peer through oversized circular windows for incredible, up-close views of colorful fish, swaying kelp forests, and thriving marine life in their natural habitat—no aquarium glass in sight. For an even more interactive experience, feed the fish right from your seat using the submarine’s unique torpedo button system (optional, additional cost).

This 45-minute tour is perfect for all ages and offers a rare glimpse into one of the healthiest marine ecosystems in California. In the crystal-clear waters of Lover’s Cove—often reaching over 100 feet of visibility—you’ll spot fish and sea creatures of impressive size, thanks to decades of conservation as a no-take marine reserve. Evening departures bring another dimension to the adventure, with custom lighting that reveals nocturnal marine life in brilliant detail. Whether it’s your first time on Catalina or a return visit, this semi-submarine journey offers an extraordinary, front-row seat to the island’s underwater world.

Any restrictions to participate?

• Age: All age groups are welcome.
• Health limitations: Not recommended for individuals with conditions that could be aggravated by confined spaces.
• Physical limitations: Must be able to step down into the semi-submarine seating area.

Who can you accommodate for?

• Children: All participants, including children, must pay to participate.
• Individuals with disabilities: Not wheelchair accessible due to steps into the vessel.
• Pets: Sorry, no pets allowed.

What to expect on the day of the experience?

• Duration: Approximately 45 minutes.
• What’s included: Semi-submarine cruise to Lover’s Cove marine preserve with large viewing windows for close-up views of fish, kelp forests, and marine life. Seasonal evening tours feature custom lighting for nocturnal sea life viewing.
• Who will be present: A crew member will narrate and operate the vessel; other guests will be aboard, up to vessel capacity.
• Spectators: No spectators allowed; all attendees must have a ticket.
• Photo/ video: Guests may take personal photos and videos throughout the tour.

How to prepare?

• Weather dependency: Operates rain or shine.
• Arrival: Plan to arrive at the meeting location at least 15 minutes prior to departure.
• Parking: Public parking is available near the Avalon harbor area.
• What to wear: Comfortable clothing; light jacket recommended for cooler weather.
• What to bring:
  • • Recommended: Camera or smartphone for photos.
  • • Allowed: Small personal items, phones, and cameras.
  • • Not allowed: Large bags, pets.
• Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: Restrooms available at the departure location; no restrooms onboard.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 14 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds or rescheduling are allowed once the experience is booked.