If you're on the fence about booking Jet Ski 2 Catalina, do it. This was truly a bucket-list…read moreexperience, and our guides, Drew, Zack, and Phil made it unforgettable. They were professional, knowledgeable, encouraging, and genuinely fun to spend the day with. They took an incredible adventure and made it even better.
Before our trip, I spent a lot of time reading reviews trying to figure out what was actually worth bringing. Here's what I found compared to my own experience:
The most commonly recommended items were sunscreen, gloves, water shoes, and goggles. I completely agree. We brought all of them just in case and ended up using everything except the goggles. I wear contacts and expected the ocean spray to be an issue, but it never bothered me. That said, I'd still recommend bringing goggles, you may appreciate having them depending on the conditions.
I also saw quite a few reviews mentioning the smell of the wetsuits. Honestly, ours weren't bad at all. We wore them on the ride over to Catalina, and on the return trip they weren't required. If you do wear one, I'd recommend leaving the top half down around your waist when you're not in the water. It gives you a little extra padding on the seat while still keeping you comfortable.
The ride to Catalina was smooth, and we were able to really open the skis up and enjoy the speed. The ride back was a little choppier, making it more technical to navigate, but it was still an absolute blast.
The jet skis are also surprisingly practical. There are two storage compartments: one large enough to hold two or three full-size backpacks, and a second waterproof compartment that's perfect for your phone, chapstick, wallet, or other small essentials while keeping everything easily accessible.
We made three scenic stops on the way to Catalina, which gave everyone a chance to rest, take photos, and enjoy the views.
The highlight of the trip, though, was the wildlife. We rode alongside a massive pod of dolphins, and it was one of the most breathtaking experiences I've ever had. Being out in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by dolphins in their natural habitat, is something I'll never forget. We also saw seals, which made the experience even more special.
I can't recommend this adventure enough. It's more than just a jet ski ride, it's a true ocean adventure and an experience I'll remember for the rest of my life. If you're considering it, book it. You won't regret it.