Built by Nichols Brothers in the state of Washington. It has been in service since then on the Newport Beach to Catalina Island run.
The Catalina Flyer is an all aluminum vessel. The Catalina Flyer is a catamaran style high speed passenger ferry. It has three decks on top of the pontoons. Its unique design which is wide for most boat styles is a smother and more enjoyable cruise. The addition of stabilizers enhanced the pleasure of our crossing. It is powered by two large CAT diesels. Each CAT engine puts out 2000 horsepower for a total of 4000 HP.
The first deck is completely enclosed except for the last 10 feet on the stern (rear) of the boat. On this deck we have two woman’s and one men’s head (restroom). Located on this deck is our main snack bar. We serve candy, beer, wine and soft drinks. Our luggage stowage is located on this deck. This is also our dance floor during a charter. Most of our seating is in restaurant style booths big enough for 6 people. We built the Catalina Flyer with large viewing window all around the boat.
The second deck is half open and half enclosed. The open back half is covered but you can still feel the fresh air during the cruise.
The enclosed half has our cocktail bar and combo snack bar in it. This room has the comfortable booths and the large viewing windows also.
The third deck is completely exposed. There are no services on this deck. Bench style seating allows all of our guests a beautiful panoramic view of the harbor while leaving in the morning. Once out in the ocean, this is the best deck to see the wild life we might go by during the voyage to the island. It does get windy on this deck so be sure to hold on to your hats and what ever.
Our deck hands are available during the cruise to assist you with your questions or any problems you might have. They also can take your cocktail order in the second deck lounge.
When Catalina Passenger Service introduced the 3 deck Catalina Flyer ... one of the largest catamarans,
in North America. It was engineered to make the Newport Beach to Catalina Island channel crossing in only 75 minutes, The
Catalina Flyer departs Newport at 9:00 PM and departs Avalon at 4:30 PM.
A multi-million dollar renovation installed ... new engines, new transmission, new carpet, new upholstery, new paint. For passenger comfort, the Catalina Flyer now features an active ride control system. A motion sensor on the ship signals a computer in the wheelhouse to adjust the ship's motion.
Six person perimeter booths and over-stuffed chairs in decorator colors and fabrics create an ambiance .of elegant informality.
Sun -lovers may relax and enjoy the sights from the sundecks. We offer full service from our cocktail and snack bars, located on the first and second decks. Large viewing windows invite you to enjoy every detail of the harbor and marine life during the crossing. The Catalina Flyer continues to set the standard for commuter service to Catalina.
The Catalina Flyer is available in the evening hours for private charter, accommodating groups to 350 for cocktail parties, dinner parties, dances, corporate functions and meetings. Our luxurious catamaran is perfect for your special event!
