Pacific Offshore Expeditions
Channel Islands
Whales by the dozens, Dolphins by the thousands
The Santa Barbara Channel's unique bathymetery along with consistent upwelling attracts unparalleled diversity and numbers of marine mammals.
Eight Islands await your discovery
The Channel Islands are the crown jewel of the Southern California coast. Explore their breathtaking scenery on an expedition with us.
Travel fast, arrive quickly
Our mission is exploration, and speed is our friend! A 30mph cruising speed can be expected under ideal conditions.
Experience exotic species, remote locations
Channel Islands Harbor is a gateway to places rarely visited by the typical tourist; it's the closest harbor to San Nicholas and Santa Barbara Island. Waters surrounding the Channel Islands bring the chance of encountering Orcas, Sperm Whales, Dall's Porpoise, and Beaked Whales
Get Inspired
About our vessel
The TERN is a 30' Zodiac Hurricane. This boat served with the US Navy Seals (SDVT-1) in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii for a decade before being acquired by us. We have fully remodeled it with 6 shock absorbing seats, 2 spacious benches, as well as a small enclosed cabin with an electric toilet. Two brand new 300hp Mercury engines round out the upgrade.
The maximum capacity is 10 passengers, 2 crew. The TERN is a USCG certified small passenger vessel and carries an auto-inflating life raft and emergency beacon.
Passengers say the TERN's best attributes are:
1. Air filled tubes which surround the side of the boat, allowing for easy GoPro dunking and comfortable leaning and sitting on all sides of the boat while stopped and enjoying wildlife encounters.
2. Totally open deck and lack of obstruction for near 360 degree views and photography advantages.
The TERN is a Zodiac, with comfortable Air Filled Tubes and Close to the Water. "GoPro Friendly"
An open layout great for photographers, the TERN has minimal obstructions.
The TERN offers an electric flush marine toilet within a private space for your peace of mind
Three rows of benches and two rows of shock absorbing seats provide flexibility and comfort.