Catalina Island Ferry from Newport Beach to Avalon
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
Note: For Round Trip Ferry Service You Must Also Book The Return Leg From Avalon To Newport Beach.
This is the largest catamaran ferry carrying passengers to Catalina Island, with 3 decks and multiple snack and beverage centers onboard including a amazing open-air top deck with spectacular views of coastlines.
The ferry's large size and open-air deck is a perfect option for those concerned with motion sickness. The trip is short - just over 1 hour across the channel on the fastest ferry to Catalina Island .
Located centrally in Newport Beach and servicing Orange County, San Diego County, Inland Empire, and Greater Los Angeles Area travelers/residents. Newport Beach is also known for its fine dining, abundant nightlife, and numerous resorts for those wanting to explore this destination after their stay on Catalina Island.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
One-way ferry ticket from Newport Beach to Avalon, Catalina Island
Restroom on board
We offer alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages on board for purchase. Credit Card or Cash
Both are available for purchase onboard at the beverage center.
Snacks are available for purchase onboard.
What To Expect
Note: For Round Trip Ferry Service You Must Also Book The Return Leg From Avalon To Newport Beach. Departing from the iconic Balboa Pavilion in Newport Beach daily. Departing times vary depending on time of year see all times available when booking. Travel time is approximately 75 minutes from Newport Beach to Avalon, Catalina Island. This is one of the most easily accessible ports for residents/visitors of Orange County, Greater Los Angeles, Inland Empire and San Diego County to travel by boat from the mainland to Avalon, Catalina Island. This is the "largest" catamaran to Catalina Island and is state of the art, with three decks. The first deck is enclosed with plenty of seating and a snack bar. The second deck offers a full bar and additional indoor seating. The third deck is open air with seating in the California sunshine and offers stunning views during the trip. Enjoy “Speed – Service – Comfort”. The day of your trip we ask that you try to arrive 1 hour to 45 minutes before your departure time as we leave exactly on time. Looking for bite to eat or a warm cup of coffee while waiting to depart, the Balboa Bakery is right in front of where the ferry boards for departure and is perfect for grabbing a snack/beverage. Once you board you will depart arriving in Avalon on Catalina Island. From there you will unload and if staying for the day have the rest of the day to explore and enjoy the many activities and sights of Avalon and Catalina Island.
Options
First Leg Newport to Avalon
Catalina Island Ferry Service
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Newport Beach To Avalon
Reviews
135 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Our cruising to Catalina
Denise T,
Oct 16, 2025
- Viator
4.00Felt safe while traveling on the boat. Didn't purchase food. The crew was not very personable. They had a printed rooster for boarding and for some reason our family of 7 wasn't on the list. We held up the process in line, offered to show our tickets that I had on my phone and no one wanted to see them.
Late for ferry
Joanne L,
Oct 12, 2025
- Viator
1.00We got to the dock 5 minutes late because we couldn’t find parking especially handicapped parking. We asked if there was another ferry that day and the man at the window said no, but failed to tell us there were other ferries from competitive lines that go.
love the flyer
Kayla M,
Oct 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00great smooth experience. get there early if you care about where you sit. the covered outdoor seating on the second floor is the best. upgrading to vip is worth it on a hot day as its the only area with climate control. they also discount alcohol if you're drinking i believe. i prefer the flyer vs the express options since its a bigger boat with more outdoor seating.
VIP allowed guaranteed...
Karen M,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00VIP allowed guaranteed seating in cooler area and great on a hot day traveling with my 82 y/o mom . Speedy trip to the island with great scenery on the way.
Congested, show up early....
Matthew W,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Congested, show up early. The ride was fun, but more like a bus trip. Catalina island was a bit of a disappointment. I expected bigger beaches.
Related Experiences
Operated by Catalina Flyer