Catalina Island may only be 22 miles off the Southern California coast, but ensuring visitors and residents get there reliably, comfortably, and efficiently has been the mission of Catalina Express for more than four decades. Established in 1981, Catalina Express has grown into the most popular and widely used passenger ferry service connecting the mainland to Santa Catalina Island, with up to 30 daily departures from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.
What began as a modest operation with a single 60-passenger boat has transformed into a sophisticated fleet of eight high-speed vessels, including sleek catamarans and modern monohulls, all designed for speed, safety, and passenger comfort. Over the past 44 years, Catalina Express has transported more than 38 million passengers, earning a reputation as the most reliable and efficient way to access Catalina Island.
For travelers departing from Long Beach, the terminal’s proximity to Shoreline Village, the Pike, and the Aquarium of the Pacific makes it especially convenient, with approximately one-hour crossings to Avalon. The San Pedro terminal at Berth 95 in the Port of Los Angeles provides additional routes to both Avalon and Two Harbors, while the Dana Point terminal remains a popular choice for South Orange County and San Diego visitors, offering trips to Avalon in roughly 90 minutes.
A recent upgrade at Dana Point enhances that convenience even further. “The brand-new parking structure at Dana Point Harbor is now open to the public,” Greg Bombard, CEO and President of Catalina Express noted, adding that passengers should first check in at the ticket window and then repark on the structure’s third level. The new facility adds another layer of ease to the travel experience for passengers departing from Dana Point.
Catalina Express isn’t just about getting travelers from point A to point B; it’s about providing a smooth, memorable start to a Catalina adventure. All vessels offer a variety of seating options, including indoor cabins and outdoor upper decks, as well as full bars, snack stations, and restroom facilities. Premium seating options, such as the Commodore Lounge and Captain’s Lounge, offer upgraded amenities like leather-trimmed seats, complimentary beverages, and priority boarding.
Innovation and environmental stewardship are central to the company’s operations. “Catalina Express has remained environmentally conscious and has been able to meet or exceed federal and state regulations to help reduce emissions,” said Bombard in a press release put out by The Port of Los Angeles in January, 2025. Beyond investments in cleaner, more efficient engines, the company has also migrated its fleet to renewable diesel (R99), a cleaner-burning fuel derived from soybean oil and other vegetable stocks.
“The focus on putting guests and crew first is the secret to the company’s enduring success,” Bombard emphasized in a statement published on catalinaexpress.com. “From the reservation agent to the captain and crew, our goal is to offer passengers more than just a boat ride but a total travel experience.”
That commitment extends beyond operations to strategic partnerships designed to promote and sustain tourism on the Island. Catalina Express works closely with Love Catalina (Catalina Island Tourism Authority) and local businesses to highlight the Island’s attractions and special events. For more than 30 years, Catalina Express and Island hotel partners have offered year-round Boat and Hotel packages, providing savings on overnight stays and encouraging visitors to explore all that Catalina has to offer—from adventurous activities to relaxing beaches.
Whether traveling on the flagship Catalina Jet—a 450-passenger catamaran capable of crossing in about an hour—or other fleet vessels like the Starship Express and Jet Cat Express, passengers benefit from fast, smooth crossings supported by advanced computerized ride control systems that ensure comfort even on choppier days.
For many visitors, Catalina Express is the gateway to Avalon’s bustling harbor, scenic coves, and vibrant shops and restaurants. Others rely on the ferry for direct access to Two Harbors, a rustic outpost on the Island’s quieter west end that draws boaters, campers, and hikers looking to unplug and reconnect with nature.
While the Island itself is the main attraction, Catalina Express plays an essential behind-the-scenes role in ensuring Catalina remains accessible and thriving. Its dedication to environmentally responsible operations, customer service, and community partnerships reflect its deep ties to the Island’s identity and economy.
“It’s amazing to see how much the business has grown and changed over the past 44 years,” said Bombard in a statement. “Our loyal customers and employees have made this success possible, and our mission has always been to offer more than just a boat ride — it’s about providing a complete, memorable vacation experience from the moment you arrive at the terminal.”
As Catalina Island continues to draw visitors for boating, fishing, hiking, and coastal relaxation, Catalina Express remains the most efficient, trusted, and environmentally conscious way to get there—and to keep the Island on the move.
For more information, schedules, or to book your next trip, visit catalinaexpress.com.
