Ferries to Newport Beach

Newport Beach ferry port in southern California is one of the few departure points for the offshore island of Santa Catalina. From here you can reach Avalon, the island's only town. A ferry leaves up to 2 times a day and the crossing takes around 1.25 hours. The route is operated by the Catalina Flyer.

Getting there and the terminal

The berth and the ticket desk are at 400 Main Street on the Balboa Peninsula, the narrow strip of land between the Pacific and the harbour basin. If someone is dropping you off or you are coming by ride service, that is the address to give. For longer stays the operator points to the municipal car park at Balboa Pier, 1 Balboa Pier, a few blocks from the terminal. You pay at the machines along the edge of the car park or by phone; daily rates vary by season.

Check-in

The Catalina Flyer asks you to be there at least an hour before the scheduled departure. Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure and access closes five minutes beforehand - unlike the big car ferries, there is no last-minute leeway here. Allow time for parking and for the walk to the desk. On luggage, two checked items of up to 50 pounds each plus one personal item are free; bicycles, surfboards and oversized items have to be registered in advance.