Island Packer Cruises, established in 1968 will begin to run regular trips for day visitors and campers to Scorpion Anchorage in Channel Islands National Park.
During construction of the new pier at Scorpion Anchorage, the park boat concessioner, Island Packers, offered alternative destinations for visitors to experience the Park resources. Now that construction is complete, they will again provide service to the main artery of Channel Islands National Park.
Scorpion offers a beautiful backdrop for picnics, hiking or camping as well as a user-friendly beach area with access to one of the Marine Reserves. Snorkel with the diverse sea creatures of the kelp forest or take a kayak tour through the sea caves with Santa Barbara Adventure Company.
Island Packers will also continue to offer daily trips to Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island, regular service to Anacapa Island, weekend trips to Santa Rosa Island, and special day trips to lesser-known island destinations. There will also be multi-island day trips and inter-island camper shuttles to expose visitors to the great diversity of the Channel Islands.
Along with their regularly scheduled Winter Whale Watches, they plan to also offer extended Wildlife Cruises, most of which will include a brief cruise along the shoreline of one of the iconic islands.
Island Packers continues to operate safely under pandemic protocols, including:
Passenger loads limited to under 50% capacity to better facilitate social distancing
Island Packer employees are health screened before every shift
Eating and drinking permitted outside cabin area
Passengers in office or boats are required to wear face covering.
Office and boat crew wear appropriate PPE when in contact with the public
Office and vessels are sanitized during stops and between runs
Follow us on social media, or check our website frequently for specific details about these and additional opportunities to visit the National Park and National Marine Sanctuary.
