Channel Islands Charter - Tours
Channel Islands Charter - Tours
4.9
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Sail with Capt. Sean and Captain Mark on a Private sailing day charter in the beautiful Channel Islands. Often referred to as the Galapagos of North America the islands are alive with a tremendous amount of sea life including dolphins, sea lions and whales. Our private excursions will allow you to explore these beautiful islands in the luxury of your own 50 foot sailboat with captain and crew. Having grown up in the area, captain Sean will share local knowledge and experience to make your trip truly special. If you prefer sailing in the Los Angeles area, we also have a boat in Marina Del Rey for quick trips to Catalina or Santa Monica Bay. Come join us for an adventure of a lifetime.
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Channel Islands Charter - Tours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.9
28 reviews
Excellent
27
Very good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
1
Karen R
1 contribution
Jul 2024 • Family
We wanted to get to Santa Barbara Island for my 91-yr-old dad to visit his 8th and final Channel Island. Captain Sean went the extra mile to make sure the visit succeeded, providing kayaks for our reaching shore, ample conversation during the 7-hour sail, and delicious food throughout our 2-day trip. He took us to a delightful picnic spot behind Anacapa Island on our jaunt back, detouring to show us a mola-mola and stopping twice to fish errant balloons out of the ocean. Lovely trip all-around!
Written July 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Doug L
5 contributions
Apr 2021
I booked a half day sailing trip to Anacapa Island for our Family of six. We sailed on the "The Good Wife" which is a well maintained and outfitted 49' Jeanneau Sail boat . Our half day charter left from Channel Islands Harbor at 1 PM for a quick trip to Anacapa Island with Captain Sean returning around 5 PM. We had a wonderful time and will hopefully be booking a longer all day trip to allow us more time to anchor and kayak in the future as this was a big hit with the family.
Sean is a skilled sailor with a engaging personality and he has a lot of local knowledge that he was able to share with us. The boat was provided a fast, safe and smooth sail out and back. This is the probably the perfect sized sailboat to consider for for a group of 4-6 that want to see or visit the Channel Islands.
Sean is a skilled sailor with a engaging personality and he has a lot of local knowledge that he was able to share with us. The boat was provided a fast, safe and smooth sail out and back. This is the probably the perfect sized sailboat to consider for for a group of 4-6 that want to see or visit the Channel Islands.
Written April 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dutchl
California6 contributions
Aug 2022
I and a group of 4 friends made a 1 night 50th birthday trip to the Channel Islands with Captain Sean on the Good Wife. The boat was perfect with just the right amount of space to eat, sleep and hang out for all of us. Sean is great with people and it was a pleasure to spend time with him, enjoy his food, kayaks and insight on sailing, and the Islands.
It was amazing how much we were able to see and do and proved to be a great way to get away with good friends. After 20+ years looking out at the Islands from the mainland of California, it was a real gift to actually see them up close with good friends.
It was amazing how much we were able to see and do and proved to be a great way to get away with good friends. After 20+ years looking out at the Islands from the mainland of California, it was a real gift to actually see them up close with good friends.
Written September 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you R, i also had a terrific time getting to know you all! I am so happy you got to share this adventure with your close friends.
Captain Sean
Written September 6, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andy M
3 contributions
Jul 2022
We had an amazing trip to the Channel Islands! Captain Sean took my 3 boys and me to Santa Cruse Island for two nights and 3 days of nonstop adventure. We sailed on "The Good Wife" and hopped around different anchorages exploring the island. The boat was well equipped with fishing gear, kayaks, and everything we needed. My boys and I got to fish, surf, kayak in caves, and explore the amazing island. Captain Sean took great care of us and served us delicious meals. I can't say enough about how awesome this trip was!
Written July 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ja C
7 contributions
Oct 2017 • Couples
Absolutely the real deal. I’ve chartered 20+ boats over the last 15 years and this is the best. Captain Sean is a great guy, works his tail off and has a great boat. He’s patient and laid back but nothing is left to chance. The Good Wife is well equipped and the Channel Islands are a treasure, if largely unknown by us heretofore - but we’ll be back.
Our 2.5 day trip included hiking, kayaking, fishing and as much sailing as the wind would alllow. Captain Sean prepared breakfast, lunch, dinner and mid-meal snacks. All were outstanding. He’s communicative pre-trip to ensure he takes care of your dietary wishes and desires and is always mindful of the weather. We sailed each day when the winds picked up. In between we had plenty to do.
As a beginning sailor, Captain Sean brought me in to his world. He’s an instructor as well as a guide and I learned a ton on this trip.
If you love to sail, want to learn or are just looking for an outstanding, safe adventure in and around one of our National Park treasures, this trip is a must. I cannot recommend this trip more highly.
Our 2.5 day trip included hiking, kayaking, fishing and as much sailing as the wind would alllow. Captain Sean prepared breakfast, lunch, dinner and mid-meal snacks. All were outstanding. He’s communicative pre-trip to ensure he takes care of your dietary wishes and desires and is always mindful of the weather. We sailed each day when the winds picked up. In between we had plenty to do.
As a beginning sailor, Captain Sean brought me in to his world. He’s an instructor as well as a guide and I learned a ton on this trip.
If you love to sail, want to learn or are just looking for an outstanding, safe adventure in and around one of our National Park treasures, this trip is a must. I cannot recommend this trip more highly.
Written October 16, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kendall R
Los Angeles, CA15 contributions
Sep 2019 • Family
If you’re looking for a wonderful trip out to the Channel Islands, look no further!
My mom, brother, and sister were in town for Labor Day Weekend and wanted to go to the Channel Islands, when we realized that the ferry was completely sold out. We messaged Sean last minute and luckily he was available to take us out for a full day of touring the Channel islands.
Sean was the most accommodating host, bringing us fresh hot bagels with plentiful toppings for breakfast & a delicious lunch as well. He was so knowledgeable about the area as well as a great conversationalist and we learned so much from him during our day. The boat was very well maintained and had everything we needed. He knew exactly what to do when things got foggy and visibility was low on our return - we were very impressed.
He brought us to a great kayak spot where we explored and encountered lots of wildlife including playful sea lions, which was so fun.
Our family got into a bit of a spat during the trip and there was some arguing between a couple of our family members, and Sean was so polite and navigated that whole situation so well (sorry for the trouble Sean!), which kept everyone much more cool and collected.
We really enjoyed spending the day with Sean and exploring the Channel Islands - I can’t recommend the experience more highly, it was the highlight of my families’ trip.
My mom, brother, and sister were in town for Labor Day Weekend and wanted to go to the Channel Islands, when we realized that the ferry was completely sold out. We messaged Sean last minute and luckily he was available to take us out for a full day of touring the Channel islands.
Sean was the most accommodating host, bringing us fresh hot bagels with plentiful toppings for breakfast & a delicious lunch as well. He was so knowledgeable about the area as well as a great conversationalist and we learned so much from him during our day. The boat was very well maintained and had everything we needed. He knew exactly what to do when things got foggy and visibility was low on our return - we were very impressed.
He brought us to a great kayak spot where we explored and encountered lots of wildlife including playful sea lions, which was so fun.
Our family got into a bit of a spat during the trip and there was some arguing between a couple of our family members, and Sean was so polite and navigated that whole situation so well (sorry for the trouble Sean!), which kept everyone much more cool and collected.
We really enjoyed spending the day with Sean and exploring the Channel Islands - I can’t recommend the experience more highly, it was the highlight of my families’ trip.
Written October 31, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for joining us for your day adventure to Anacapa. You are an incredible big sister and i also had a wonderful time sharing the beauty of the Channel Islands with you and your wonderful family. Look forward to taking you out again.
Captain Sean
Written November 5, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
suttonj3
Zionsville, IN1 contribution
Apr 2017 • Family
Our family of four recently traveled to the Los Angeles area for the first time and wanted to experience some of California’s natural wonder and beauty beyond the city. Since we live nowhere near an ocean, we contacted Channel Island Charters because we were looking for something to do on the water. Upon leaving a message online, I was promptly contacted by Captain Sean Quine to discuss scheduling and chartering options (e.g., boat selection, full or half-day, activities, etc.). No pressure whatsoever. A few days prior to our scheduled charter, Captain Sean contacted us to get our food and beverage selections, provide tips for how to dress (the weather required layers that day), and understand what activities we decided to do.
We sailed for a full day on “The Good Wife” from Oxnard to Anacapa Island, where we anchored offshore and had lunch, dropped kayaks in the water, explored along the shoreline of the island, and paddled into a couple of caves. We experienced sea lions, seas, dolphins, and fish along the way…the water around the island was crystal clear! We also kayaked to a small beach and explored part of the island.
Having no previous sailing experience, the one thing I liked was how relaxing the overall day was. We didn’t lift a finger for anything. We ate breakfast upon boarding, lunch later, and snacks along the way. We were very well fed and comfortable all day! I highly recommend Channel Island Charters to anyone wanting to spend a relaxing day on the water, see tons of bird and marine wildlife, and witness an abundance of natural beauty…all while being completely unplugged. Captain Sean said it best while we were kayaking…”it sure beats a day in the office!” We would most certainly do this again.
We sailed for a full day on “The Good Wife” from Oxnard to Anacapa Island, where we anchored offshore and had lunch, dropped kayaks in the water, explored along the shoreline of the island, and paddled into a couple of caves. We experienced sea lions, seas, dolphins, and fish along the way…the water around the island was crystal clear! We also kayaked to a small beach and explored part of the island.
Having no previous sailing experience, the one thing I liked was how relaxing the overall day was. We didn’t lift a finger for anything. We ate breakfast upon boarding, lunch later, and snacks along the way. We were very well fed and comfortable all day! I highly recommend Channel Island Charters to anyone wanting to spend a relaxing day on the water, see tons of bird and marine wildlife, and witness an abundance of natural beauty…all while being completely unplugged. Captain Sean said it best while we were kayaking…”it sure beats a day in the office!” We would most certainly do this again.
Written April 17, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
nofzigerd
Malibu, California, USA14 contributions
Apr 2016 • Friends
This is the way to go to get the most out of your visit to the Channel Islands. This is NOT simply a boat ride to the islands - it is a personalized experience that is catered to your individual needs. Captain Sean is so knowledgable and knows the best places on the islands to explore. We packed so much into our weekend - kayaking, exploring sea caves, hiking, snorkeling, fishing, and just soaking in the sun on the gorgeous sailboat, the Good Wife. Captain Sean took the time to ask about our food preferences before the trip and I must say that the food was delicious. And I haven't even mentioned how amazing and fun the sail was to and from the islands - racing the dolphins and seeing whales! This was a trip that we will never forget.
Written March 2, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kathryn Z
Santa Rosa, CA1 contribution
May 2014 • Family
Sean of Channel Islands Charter is a very experienced, knowledgeable, and fun captain. I felt very safe with him. The ocean is amazing!
Written April 30, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
nylagal
los angeles27 contributions
Mar 2015 • Friends
Sean and his "first mate" Mark gave us a really memorable day trip. We went over on "The Good Wife" to Anacapa. Kayaked the caves, swam, ate a delicious home-made (by Sean!) lunch. Sean is knowledgable, nice and just wants everyone to have a good time. Wish there had been more wind for sailing, but we did see some incredible whales and other sea life. Don't hesitate to hire Captain Sean!
Written March 17, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I was curious when you guys stop offering trips, I'm considering coming out to Cali in early September, but I'm afraid all the outdoor adventures will stop by then
Written July 14, 2020
On non Covid year we offer trips year round. However this year has been tough and we are limited now to 4 persons from the same family that are engaging in social distancing practices.
Written July 15, 2020
How many max people can go out at a time?
Do you rent by the hour? Or half/full day?
Is alcohol allowed on board?
Written February 8, 2018
Half day/Full day/Multi-day options. We went out for 3 days (2 overnights) and it was great.
Alcohol is allowed although it is BYOB.
And you could easily do 6 guests plus the captain and a mate.
Written April 11, 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.