Spectre Dive Boat - Ventura, CA

Joseph P. L.

The Spectre Dive boat offers an unforgettable experience that every diver should try. From the moment you board, you're treated like royalty, starting with delicious breakfast sandwiches as the boat leaves the harbor, perfectly timed to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the water. The dive sites around the Channel Islands are nothing short of spectacular, with stunning golden kelp forests and mesmerizing rocky outcroppings that make each dive unique and exciting. The captain is not only highly skilled but also incredibly friendly, ensuring that everyone on board feels safe and well taken care of. The crew's knowledge and enthusiasm for the underwater world are infectious, making the entire trip educational as well as fun.

The attention to detail on the Spectre is impressive. After the second dive, a hearty and satisfying lunch is served, refueling you for more underwater adventures. The cherry on top is the post-dive treat: ice cream sundaes with freshly baked brownies, the perfect way to wrap up a day of diving. Whether you're bringing your own gear or renting from the boat, you'll find everything in excellent condition and ready to go. Booking a trip is a breeze with their user-friendly online system, and Ted in the main office is a gem, always ready to assist with rebooking or returning any forgotten items. The Spectre Dive boat is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of LA, and I can't recommend it highly enough!

Brian C.

I feel the Spectre is currently the best dive boat in Southern California. I've been on all the boats, and Spectre offers a consistently good experience every time. The crew, the dive sites, and the food are all top notch.

They also anchor the boat at both the bow and stern to put us right on the site and make it easy to return. Thank you, Spectre.

Mike

Great boat lots of room, cook made great meals so much to eat and drink. Dives were easy and just amazing! Lots of kelp forest dove at Anacapa Island. Great dive master and boat captain. Very hot hot tub on boat also. Rental equipment was great. This was my second trip this July and I will be back next time I am here, water visibility was very good!

Michelle A.

I really love this boat and their team. Without a doubt, this is the best experience in Southern California. Everyone on board is very professional and reliable. The one I'm most familiar with is Eli, he always eagerly provides help and care, and he also does an excellent job. When the boat returns to the dock, you can see the skill and proficiency of the driver, effortlessly controlling such a large vessel. Their handling of the entire journey is so superb; we returned to the dock at three-thirty after completing three dives, demonstrating their professionalism in process control. Every detail on the boat is designed for divers; the hot water in the bathroom is really hot, and the water flow is also very strong. If you are a diver, you will know how helpful this is, especially for wet suit!

Tessa M.

Very highly recommend these guys and would absolutely dive with them again.

I got my PADI certification almost a year ago and was looking for an affordable dive that would keep me in practice and perhaps have some guidance since I wasn't fully confident yet.

A friend suggested the Spectre boat dive in Channel Islands and I'm so glad I took her advice. Myself and 3 friends booked a trip. The price was reasonable and included full meals on the boat which had a legit bathroom and even a small hot tub to warm up between dives.

We embarked for the Channel Islands from Ventura at 7am. Breakfast on the way there with coffee and snacks all day. Upon arrival, they scouted the spot with the best visibility, filled our tanks, and off we went. At each spot we stopped, which were 3 total, they gave us an overview of the area, which direction they recommended going in, how the current was, and how long we had before we should be back on the boat. Each time, there was someone at the back of the boat to hand us our fins and take them from us when we came back on board. They kept watch to make sure everyone was good, and the day was very flexible. You could be first off the boat and last on if you wanted to, skip a dive completely, if you wanted to, we never felt rushed or pressured. Plus, the dive masters were very helpful. If we had any questions or asked for recommendations, they were there. They even helped me when my mask was majorly fogging on the last dive, worked their magic, and cleaned my mask so I was able to enjoy it.

Rentals were also super easy. I chose to rent my BCD and wetsuit from other company, as a I had a promotional credit. But I rented my weights and tank from these guys. All of their rentals are loaded on and off the boat for you, so all you have to do is show up. I even added my tank rental a few days before because I thought I'd be borrowing a friend's and that was no problem.

Did I mention, midday, you also get a full lunch, and you're greeted from your final dive with dessert and a cash bar for the boat ride home!

Lacey M.

What a beautiful way to spend the day! The crew is so friendly and helpful. Even if you don’t dive, you can enjoy the lovely scenery of the Channel Islands. Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dessert, and non-alcoholic drinks are included. You can sit in the galley, up on the sundeck, or in the (tiny!) hottub in between dives. They even have some bunks if you need a nap! Worth every penny. Can’t wait to do it again!

Nate G.

Had an amazing trip with Spectre yesterday! The crew was professional, very friendly, and made the whole day effortless. The diving was beautiful, and the food onboard was absolutely delicious. Highly recommend — can’t wait to book with them again!

Zackary A.

I have been on this dive boat 10+ times and it is perfect. If it’s rainy and completely full, that would probably be the worst case scenario. Going on a Thursday with nice weather is ideal. The crew is friendly, the food is good and healthy given you avoid the indulgences. They will find three good spots around the islands to dive and I am always so happy once I’m out there.