Archives: FAQs
Is food available at the Channel Islands National Park?
Channel Islands National Park does not permit any food service on the islands, so please bring your own lunch and snacks (please do not bring glass). There is nowhere to purchase food once you are on the island. See our list of recommended Channel Islands National Park food options here.
Do you offer senior discounts on ferry tickets?
We do not offer senior discounts on ferry tickets. Ferry tickets for passengers 55+ ($58 per person) can be booked directly with Island Packers.
Can we purchase additional ferry tickets for passengers who will not join the tour?
Due to our contract with the National Park Service, we are unable to sell ferry tickets for passengers who are not taking a kayak and/or snorkel tour with us. Ferry tickets for additional passengers who are not joining the tour must be booked directly with Island Packers.
What time does the ferry return?
Departure times from the island vary by day. Generally, they are 3:30pm for the fall/winter and 4pm or 4:30pm for the spring/summer. You will arrive in Ventura approximately 1-1.5 hours after leaving the island. Our guides will let you know your exact ferry return time during check-in on the day of your tour.
What if I already purchased ferry tickets from Island Packers?
If you have already purchased ferry tickets to Scorpion Cove with Island Packers, you can skip the option to purchase ferry tickets during checkout. Please let us know your departure and return times in the comments section of the checkout page.
Are ferry tickets required for Channel Islands tours?
Yes, ferry tickets are required for all of our Channel Islands tours. You will have the option to add them during checkout or you can purchase them directly through the ferry company Island Packers.
I’m riding the train into Santa Barbara. Is it usually on schedule?
The train to Santa Barbara is famously late. Therefore we encourage guests who are traveling to Santa Barbara via train to arrive the day prior or to allow plenty of time the day of for a delayed train arrival. Generally, a train arrival of 9:30am or earlier is recommended in order to make your pick-up…
Why is gratuity included?
Our guides and the winery staff work hard to ensure you have a great time. Therefore 15% gratuity (for your tour guide) and 3% gratuity (for the winery staff) are included in your tour price. If you’d like to leave additional gratuity for your guide, you can tip them directly on the day of your tour. We are…
Where/when do campers meet for kayak tours on the island?
When it comes to meet-up time on the day of your tour, you will meet us on the island (rather than prior to ferry departure as you would for a day trip). Our Adventure Village is about a 5-10 minute walk from the pier where the ferry drops you off, back towards the campground. You…