We used Island Packers to go on their Anacapa Island boat tour where they take you around the North shore of Anacapa Island. As this is one of the only ways you can experience Channel Islands National Park and we were on a time crunch, I felt the 3 hour boat tour was our best option (they offer other Channel Islands exploration options as well). Our guides were amazing and they did a great job of pointing out wildlife and when we got to Anacapa, Felicia was really informative. My husband and I really enjoyed our time on the boat! read more

It was a great experience on the boat ride with Island Packers. It was easy to park, easy to check-in, and the 3.5hr was super fun. We did not see whales, but we saw a pack of over a dozen dolphins and they swam super fast with us on the boat. We had a great time. read more

3.5 hour whale watching tour review- what a great family friendly outing! The captain and ships mates were very friendly and knowledgeable! We heard all about the whales, birds and dolphins as well as some history or whaling and about the Santa Barbara channel, but they did not talk too much. The naturalist on board was so helpful and knowledgeable as well. It was a great trip well worth the the cost. They advise to show up 45 minutes before and you definitely should so you can get in line and have your pick of seating! The top back portion of seating was perfect! read more

See all

We made reservations online several months ago and the day finally arrived. We are trying to see all the National Parks, and that means experiencing each one. So it was time to actually go out to one of the islands. We booked the Prisoner's Harbor and Painted Cave excursion. We arrived 45 minutes before our scheduled boat departure, checked in and received our boarding tickets and return tickets. There was staff outside informing each person of which line to get into as there were several boats leaving for different islands or harbors. We boarded the boat and were greeted by all the friendly boat staff. We found our seats and were instructed on where the life jackets were, and how to put them on in case they were needed. We had a small snack bar on board along with two bathrooms. We soon set off from the dock and on the way to the island, the staff were constantly on the microphone telling us what dolphins we were seeing, and when a whale was spotted, they were very responsible in keeping their distance, yet close enough for us to see them and watch them. We spent time just floating to watch the whales, it was awesome. We made it over to Santa Cruz Island and Prisoner's Harbor where half the boat disembarked as their tickets either didn't include Painted Cave, or they were camper's going to their campsites. The rest of us remained on board and we soon set off for the cave. I had no idea that this part of the trip would be so awesome. We whale watched on our way and when we arrived at the cave, the water was pretty smooth so our captain was able to enter the cave, it was awe-inspiring. After a good visit and entering twice, we turned around and headed back to Prisoner's Cove. The captain skirted the coastline so we could see all the little coves, beaches and caves. Back at Prisoner's Cove, we all got off and had about 2.5 hours to either sit on the rocky beach or hike. After climbing up two steps on the ladder we were on the dock. We decided to hike a portion of the Conservancy Pelican Path. The hike is fairly strenuous, but so worth the flowers, fauna and views of the ocean from this path. We stopped for snacks, many had brought picnics. We visited with fellow traveler's and just enjoyed a beautiful day. Going to the islands is like entering a whole other world and is so worth the time. Island Packer's staff was professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and made the experience extra special. We will absolutely go out with them again, this time to explore another island. read more

See all

These guys are great. Very well trained staff, boats in good condition and clean. Took a charter to Channel Islands National Park with a tour of Painted Cave. That was a bit abbreviated due to high swells that day, but the captain did an excellent job getting as much access as possible. Highly recommend. read more

We booked a half day tour of Channel Islands National Park with Island Packers. The Channel Islands are made up of Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. The trip from Oxnard to Anacapa took about an hour. Loved the boat ride which was full of ocean spray and bumps as we were going into the waves. The highlight of the cruise was checking out the Anacapa Island Lighthouse. Constructed in 1912 it was the last major lighthouse built on the west coast. Built on the easterly entrance to the Santa Barbara Channel the light could be seen from 20 miles away. We spent about a half hour touring just the Oxnard facing side of Anacapa. Then it was about an hour to return to Oxnard. While I had a great time I think the half day tour of the Channel Islands would have been awesome if we had visited all the islands and spent more time viewing the islands versus just getting to the islands and back. The staff of Island Packers were nice and helpful. Boat was well run and nice to be on. read more

See all

I took my first trip with Island packers. We sailed out with Vanguard, Jason was our captain. It was a nice slow ride. No, we didn't see much at that day. Anyone who complains about that need to understand that there are wild animals. No boat out there trains them to entertain your uneducated brain. We toured Anacapa island and we did stop to pick up some passengers. From what I understand the Island Packers are the only one that can get near the Islands and pick up people from the island. We did have beautiful dolphins following our boat. Which is normal. Dolphins do like to people watch just like we like to watch them. Captain Jason was the best! I do have my favorite captains out there and Jason defiantly got into my list. He is so professional and a complete sweetheart. Had a talk with him and found out we have mutual friends. For those who get upset over canceled trips. You need to understand that it's for your safety and the crews safety. Yes, it can get frustrating at times, but we can't control mother nature. Accidents can happen if safety gets thrown out and not take into consideration. I hope this helps if you have any trips canceled and not understand why. read more

I would recommend getting there early and lining up to get a good spot on the boat. I would recommend inside seats if you can get them. It's cold in the morning and windy. We got to see dolphins on our way to Santa Cruz. They do offer snacks and drinks onboard. There are No restaurants or shops on the Channel Islands so make sure you bring a lunch with you. read more

Came from far away to go. Cancelled by email at 10:00 the night before. No replacement, no booking another day.;(

The best way to get to the Channel Islands! These folks have great services and a comfortable ship stocked with snacks coffee and beer. The crew and head crew master Garron are efficient and friendly. They slowed to show us several schools of Dolphins on the way. They even have seasick remedies for newbs. Book way ahead for weekends because they fill up fast! read more

Island Packers Cruises - Inside the boat - Boating Near Me - Oxnard, California

See all

I have been twice now whale watching from the Oxnard location and they were great experiences! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I felt safe both times. I will say the boat is smaller than the Ventura location one so I felt a little too close to the other people on the boat but it was still an amazing experience read more

Staff is great.. and knowledgeable. I was pleased to chose to go w Island Packers!!!! The staff is

Stayed out extra time when we found humpbacks breaching. All the staff were very friendly and helpful We're going out on a different cruise with them next week we enjoyed ourselves so much and pleased with the company read more

We took the Explorer boat out to hike for the day on Santa Cruz Island. I'm so glad we did. We didn't expect very much when we signed up online - just a ride to the island. But it was a great experience, and one that we'll remember for a long time. The crew was friendly and professional. It's not easy to get 50 people on a boat in 15 minutes, many carrying camping gear/water/fuel, but the crew did it easily. We loved Captain Paige, who slowed down the boat to point out hundreds of dolphins playing around us. She also turned the boat around so we could see two humpback whales surfacing at sunset. It was magical. We thought the hiking would be the highlight of our day, but the trip home on Explorer was what we'll remember. Thank you Captain Paige and crew! read more

We had a great time on our combo cruise to Santa Cruz Island: Prisoners Harbor and the Painted Cave. My wife is very prone to sea sickness, so was very apprehensive -- and, indeed, the cruise was a bit too long and bumpy for her tastes, with very few "seasick friendly" seating options (outdoors with a good view of the horizon. We found a couple side-facing ones that worked... but then we ended up being in a "splash zone" that ended up getting us thoroughly drenched before we decided to head indoors and brave the motion sickness as opposed to the cold wind and wetness outside) Other than that, everything was smooth sailing -- and despite rougher-than-ideal conditions, my wife soldiered through (and the captain also seemed very good at navigating rough waters), and we even got nice calm waters inside the very cool Painted Cave. We also enjoyed seeing the pod of playful dolphins that joined us for some "wake surfing" We had planned on hiking a bit on the island, but the steep trails and warmer than expected weather made us spend more time hanging out at the shore with the crystal-clear waters (wish I had actually brought swimming gear and maybe even snorkel!) All in all, it was a long and tiring day, but an enjoyable one. read more

Island Packers Cruises - The Painted Cave - 2nd largest sea cave in America - Boating Near Me - Oxnard, California

Exploring the Channel Islands! This was my second trip to another Channel Island upon an Island Packer boat and excited to share my experience! This time we ended up on Anacapa Island. 1 of 8 islands. Very different from the first island we visited which was Santa Cruz Island. Anacapa has just over 2 miles of walking trails which means you can see the entire thing in just a few hours. The perfect half-day experience! The boat ride will last just under an hour. You can depart from Ventura or their second location in Oxnard. I recommend taking the first boat out early in the morning for two reasons; one is to enjoy the volcanic island without full sun for a few hours as you'll begin the day with early morning mist and cooler temps and secondly to still have half of your day left upon your return. Boat sizes may vary depending on the time of year you travel & which island you choose to visit. The boats we have been on were both substantial in size, comfortable & clean. Staff is great and both experiences went without a hitch. If you're interested in exploring these islands there are only 3 ways to get to them, by private boat, small aircraft or Island Packers. The boat offers restrooms and a snack bar. Looking forward to hopefully exploring a new island once COVID restrictions lift. read more

See all

Well, remember the term from the popular TV show..."a three hour tour?" My trip with Island Packers Cruisers on August 15th was horrible. The sea was rough and the tiny boat named Vanguard, which is not shown in any literature was going to fast, creating an VERY uncomfortable race to the Channel Islands. I witnessed several people fall to the wet deck, my 70 year old wife one of them. I was swept off my feet, despite holding onto the chrome guard rail which were few in number and landed crashing my knees against the side of the boat. It hurt. I saw people turn green and become sick. I managed to get from the front of the boat to the snack cabin, in the rear, where I sat for the remainder of the trip on torn cushions nursing my knees and a massive headache. I couldn't care less when we reached the Channel Islands, I just wanted off this horrible trip... Never again...never again. Future visitors, be AWARE you not getting the big beautiful ship you see in their ads, rather a small, ill equipped boat lacking necessary hands rails. Too many ill people of all ages. This three hour tour was HELL. read more

Island Packers Cruises - A sick customer in the snack bar. Note the torn cushion by the soda can. - Boating Near Me - Oxnard, California

I am deeply disappointed by how I have been treated by Island Packers Cruises. I mistakenly booked a one way trip from Santa Cruz Island to Ventura without any warning about the missing trip from Ventura to the Island. Why would I be allowed to buy a one way ticket from the island when I am not there yet. I meant to buy a day ticket and I asked for a refund given that it was a blatant mistake on my side but was denied. They didn't even give me credit for another trip! Will never use this company again. Be real careful with them! read more

The reservations were easy to make for our day trip to Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands National Park. The staff was friendly and caring-- regularly checking with passengers. They gave advice to passengers on how to avoid seasickness. The Captain slowed/stopped the boat so passengers could enjoy views of the marine wildlife--gray whales and dolphins mostly. The staff workers and volunteers were founts of interesting facts about the wildlife. They were very nice and knowledgeable. There's a snack bar and clean restrooms on board. Everyone had a great experience. read more

Whale watching perfection! We just returned (March 10, 2022) from an amazing 3-hour cruise with Captain Jason and his first mates Brittaney and Brittaney! We saw sea lions, seals, hundreds and hundreds of dolphins, and four different groups of whales... some of which fully breeched out of the water! Our crew was informative throughout the tour, and and ecologically sensitive vibe. We loved it and highly recommend it! read more

Island Packers Cruises - View from the back of the boat! - Boating Near Me - Oxnard, California

Well, we were not able to complete our planned cruise to Prisoner's Harbor and the Painted Cave. We were all set to go until my son got sent home from school the day before the cruise with quarantine orders for supposed exposure to another kid with COVID (LA County has yet to realize that their restrictive tactics are NOT working...). Even though we are not worried, as a courtesy to the other passengers, we thought it was best that we skip the trip. The staff at Island Packers was fabulous and so understanding. They refunded the full amount we had paid without any problems at all. This was despite the fact that we were past the 72 hour deadline for cancellations. I really appreciate their understanding and flexibility. We certainly will reschedule and try to go back and actually do the cruise this time around. I was really impressed when they offered to refund our money because most businesses wouldn't do that despite the fact that we are trying to keep everybody safe from Covid. I hope that everybody who did get to go had a fabulous time. read more

Surprised this place gets so many positive reviews based on the customer experience I received in October 2023. Island Packers sent an email at 3pm the day prior to my 8:30am trip to SCI stating they had to cancel due to rough waters. I was already in Ventura (driving from LA) and had checked into my hotel. They wouldn't respond on the phone as I'd get the automated voice-mail right away. I showed up the day of the actual trip to see if they can show any gesture of goodwill given the entire weekend trip was to visit Santa Cruz Island. They only offered an $80 refund for the boat trip, knowing I had to spent twice that amount for a night in Ventura. They canceled the trip while others boats were still at sea, so they should take responsibility for expenses incurred for passengers impacted by their decision. How is this an acceptable business practice in 2023 with no accountability whatsoever? Invest in steadier boats or give a 50% discount for customers impacted by cancelation, either way there are multiple options to respond to poor experiences like the one I had but they simply did nothing. If you want to ensure you can enjoy your weekend gateway, stay away from Island Packers! read more

I would give them more than 5 stars if it were up to me. I got injured on the way back from a hike and the staff was so helpful, they took care of me really well. Stu came to the hiking trail made sure I get back to the ferry safely, he even brought ice packs to put on twisted ankle. The staff then made room for me to sit at a place where I can sit comfortably with my leg elevated. The captain also made sure that I get back safely to the car by providing wheelchair. I just can't thank them enough. They made a miserable situation so smooth and comfortable for me. I would definitely recommend them any day any time. I want to thank the crew again for being so helpful! read more

Our Cellarmasters LA Home Winemaking Club took 35 of us out for a harbor cruise and absolutely loved it. We got to meet owner Cheryl and her crew made us feel welcomed and cared for. And we drank wine from a can for the first time! All the boats that went by waved at us and people in their homes came out and waved too! Perfect day. read more

Great 4th of July, 2022 cruise on the Vanguard . Taking in the sights towards Anacapa Island. Dolphins, Sealions, and Pelicans, on a beautiful sunny day! read more

Island Packers Cruises - Anacapa Island - Boating Near Me - Oxnard, California

See all

They were excellent with their organization and friendliness of the staff as well as making sure that we were safe while in their care.

I have taken cruises on Island Packers for many years. Today, I took my grandchildren on their first 'wildlife cruise' out of Oxnard. How disappointing! I am aware that you never know what you will see on a boat. However, this 1/2 day cruise is actually 2.5 hours since we couldn't board until 9:30, left at 10am. We were stationary at Anacapa Island for 30 minutes, and we were back in Oxnard in port at 1pm. That left 2.5 hours on the ocean. We saw very few dolphins, not because there weren't many, but because the gal who COULD have directed the captain to drive closer to various pods, chose to keep movin' on. On the way back, we finally encountered some dolphins again, and she said, "Well, there they are. We'll just let them do their thing." Whatever that means! This happened twice, and it was the ONLY two times we encountered dolphins. The 90 paying guests on the boat would have preferred if she had asked the captain to drive the boat closer to the pod so that we could have actually seen them. We had enough time, and that is the experience I have had on other Island Packer boats. No whales, but I didn't really expect any. I would highly recommend going out with Condor Express out of Santa Barbara. In the times I have used them, they have always made the effort and taken the time to safely and legally allow their passengers to spend quality time viewing the dolphins and the whales. Plus, there are more whales over there! This was the most disappointing cruise that I ever been on with Island Packers. It is cheaper than Condor but what's the point if it's all rushed so that they could get back as soon as possible? I give the cruise 2 stars because it's always nice to be out at sea, and the person explaining stuff had a good knowledge of Anacapa Island, including some interesting stories. But... come on! we all wanted to experience quality dolphin viewing and they blew opportunites that were offered. read more

We love these trips. Always efficient, friendly and fun. The boats are clean and safe.

For one of the only ways to get to the Channel Islands National park. I used this every time! The bathrooms are always clean. And the seats are comfortable every though you might now be sitting down for long because of the great views! Every seat is a good spot. On our way there the pods of dolphins were exiting every time and on our way back we saw a mega pod! It was amazing! Honestly my family agrees that the boat ride back at 3:30 was the best part of the trip even after going on a beautiful hike and camping the boat ride was the best. On the boat they have , toilets, many seats, viewing spots everywhere, a cafe with pizza and other foods and drinks, a boar radar on each floor, kayak racks, and even a shop with all good Channel Islands gear and stuff on land! I hope you have the best time of your life like I did! read more

See all

Boat ride was ordinary. Not great but not bad either. I thought we'd have a short walk on the island with either a park ranger or docent ... nothing, I asked at the front desk before boarding and was told a guide was scheduled. read more

Had to file a dispute to get my promised refund back. No I will not be booking with them in the future

I had an amazing experience on the islands. A gentlemen named Miles helped my family make a reserveation and was extremly kind and helpful. He seemed very passionate and knowlegable about what he was talking about. I felt extremly safe and informed during my visit and appreciated the organization. read more

What an incredible experience! I booked with these guys for what I thought was just a boat ride to Santa Cruz Island and it was the highlight of my trip. I don't think I smiled so much and so wide in years! The ride from Ventura harbor to Santa Cruz is a bumpy one, but it's so fun! I thought the whole journey, if only I see 1 dolphin in the distance I'll be so happy. Well, the captain saw a swarm of birds in the ocean and did a loop, off route, because where there are birds he said, there are dolphins. He stopped the boat and I saw 400 dolphin.! I'm so happy. They really care about their passengers to go out their route and way for that. Thank you all so very much. Pro tip. If you don't see the date time for what you want, give them a call, I wasn't originally able to get what I wanted and I called and they sorted that right out. Amazing!! read more

WHAT AN ADVENTURE!! We did the wildlife tour to Anacapa Island, and were blown away by how how much fun it was. We saw dolphins, seals, sea lions, and some incredible vistas of the island. My wife, kids, and I were all blown away. The crew on the boat were fantastic and all very professional, even helping us in finding our sea legs. Thank you, Island Packers! You all rock! read more

I'm old and can be a little grumpy- I try to hide it but sometimes it spills out....so it's quite a thing when I run across not just a person, but an entire company that makes me happy to be alive. How can a bunch of boaties turn a grumpy old woman into a skipping teen? By being so good at their jobs, going above and beyond in those same jobs, by being efficient and inexpensive for what you get- by treating people as clients and not as cattle- and honestly the frozen burritos in the galley are oddly fantastic. I take them regularly because I like to camp on the Channel Islands so all the boats I've been on are more transportation rather than their other specialty which is wildlife tours- but the captains never fail to spot something good and know all about it. They manage to get inside of caves! & avoid the worst of the swells- the crews are just fantastic- special shout out to Captain Luke who saved our bacon- I've yet to meet a crew member who isn't a hero. And to Cheryl- you're an angel. Once you discover the Channel Islands they're really the only game in town- and what a good game it is. read more

Great friendly staff. Flexibility during the ride. Easy checking and boarding. Make reservation ahead of time. read more

See all

Made plans and paid to take a trip around the Islands. Drove 5 hours, weather advisory suggested choppy waters and Island Packers sent notification saying they would refund if called early enough. Called to cancel and they only offered half refund saying they now need to find someone else to replace us.. We followed all of their guidelines and were still charged for a choppy waters trip we chose not to experience. Bad business...!! read more

Received advanced notice to call in early to check on cruise status. Warning stated waters we're very rough and passengers would be allowed a refund if uncomfortable with rough boat ride. I went back to sleep and set an alarm to call in and cancel. Upon calling in, I was told (by rude manager) that MY trip was not rough waters and I could not cancel without loosing my tickets with no refund. She kept telling me that the recording clearly stated my trip was fine, but there was no specific info on the message about the wildlife watching cruise. She seemed angry. I protested, which is not my style, and she eventually offered a 1/2 refund. I took it as she wasn't budging! I'm super disappointed in the lack of customer service and their inability to even honor their own policy as stated in the recording! Unfortunate!! I would have happily scheduled a trip during better weather if it were different. read more

I have had 2 beautiful trips to Santa Cruz with this company. But after seeing that they were fined for dumping toxic materials into the ocean, I probably wouldn't support a company who's ecological ideals are not shared by myself. read more

I wanted to give a great review for these folks - who took the time to reach out to me after a year and a half and remind me of deposit money I had put down on a trip back in the spring of 2020 - the trip was cancelled due to Covid. Class act! They are processing a refund that I would have forgotten. I've used their services before and enjoyed their service and hiking the islands. Strong recommend! read more