Dana Point to Catalina

[A-1 Boss]

Hi guys. I'm planning my next trip to Catalina. I have reserved a guest slip in Dana Point over Labor Day weekend and I am hoping to go over to Avalon on Monday (Labor Day) and stay for a couple days. I will watch the weather and have no problem calling it off if it looks sketchy. I have a couple questions from the Cali sailors. Any idea what the crowds will be like if I arrive on Labor Day? I heard people clear out Monday afternoon but would like some advice. How is the return to Dana Point from Catalina if I have to do it in the afternoon early evening? I have no problem motoring if wind doesn't work out. My wife and kids will be along for the ride so I don't want to scare them away from sailing forever! I did Long Beach to 2 harbors and Avalon in May and had a great time.

Thanks for your advice

[BOAT]

If you did Long Beach to Two Harbors then you already know what to expect. The run from Long Beach has the mildest swell conditions because it's in the lee of the island. Dana point is a little outside the lee of the Island but only for the first 6 or 7 miles, after that it's the same calm conditions. The trip from Dana Point is a little longer but nothing to worry about. You should have a really easy crossing.

As for the crowds, Avalon might be full, but there is always room in the overflow in Cherry cove right next door.

The whole island is one of my favorite places in the world.

[A-1 Boss]

Thanks Boat! I've heard afternoon returns are not recommended because swells and weather can get sketchy. Any truth to this? Thanks.

[BOAT]

No, the reason people moan about afternoon returns is not so much the afternoon, but the RETURN. The wind is not working with you on the return trip. - it's harder to get back sometimes because your beating. If you have trouble pointing just add a tack to your return leg.