Catalina Island is worth a visit

[Galaxy2004]

This is an excerpt from a review of our 3/5-3/12 cruise on Constellation.

 

Against recommendations on the board, we did not use this as a ship day, though it appeared that many did stay on board. Instead, we opted for the ship excursion to Catalina Island. The boat was standing room only, so this appeared to be a popular excursion. $24 covered the ferry ride, a free rum drink when you reach the island and a free lounge chair. The ferry ride was between 30 and 40 minutes. We were greeted by Dominican dancers and offered a free rum drink (with little rum according to my friends). The beach area was beautiful, with deep white sand and was very clean. We found 4 chairs under a cabana and read and lounged for a few hours. We were not bothered by people selling stuff as the hawkers on the island are restricted to the inland side of the boardwalk. Other than bar service we encountered no one trying to sell anything. Those venturing across the boardwalk seemed to face high pressure selling. A hard Caribbean rain came in and sent us all scurrying back to the boat about 30 minutes early. Everyone was trying to fit on the lower covered area of the ferry, but a few of us toughed it out on top to avoid the crowd. It was a steady downpour, but at least the rain was warm. Note that there is no option to return to the ship early. You are dropped off at around 1:45 - 2:00 and then leave as a group at 5:00 (though we departed early due to the rain). There was a food bar on the island for snacks. I would highly recommend this excursion and think this stop makes for a great first day.

[kchesneylover]

This was Per Person? Thanks!

 

$24 covered the ferry ride, a free rum drink when you reach the island and a free lounge .

[BobJanice]

I would strongly suggest this beach if it is available to you as an excursion as we had a wonderful time there and the beach and water was as clear as any beach that I been to

[lvz2cruz]

This is not offered as a shore excursion on Millennium in Dec. Any info on how to get there on our own?