It was wonderful!! I have to admit t was a little worrisome getting underway, because information we found online said, "Tours depart daily from State Street at Stearns Wharf right next to the Dolphin Fountain," which turned out to be incorrect. I dropped my wife off at the fountain and went a block or two East down the street, where I found a space to park, and walked back. But when I rejoined her, I saw that the bus was parked about a block or so further West, and my wife (who has mobility issues) ended up having to make the walk to it so we would arrive at the scheduled departure time. But our arrival made for a total of only 7 passengers, and they require a minimum of 10, or they have to cancel the trip. But the 7 of us were so eager, that we started encouraging passersby on the sidewalk to join us (which was kind of fun), and fortunately, just when it looked like the bus couldn't wait any longer, 3 more people accepted the invitation! I must say, it was well worth any extra trouble to get underway, because we had a great experience! Our tour guide, Natalie, was not only full of interesting historical information, she entertained us constantly with a very witty narrative, as well as interacting with people as we passed by them on the streets. When asked questions she couldn't answer, she would ask the driver, and he would always know--so no need to stop taking pictures to Google anything. We highly recommend the tour--it was well worth the money, and driving right off the streets and into the water for the harbor portion of the tour was a very unique and...
Read moreHad a fun filled experience with a tour guide who gave a bit of a history lesson in the City of Santa Barbara. The tour guide was quite friendly and provided opportunities for the audience to join in and answer trivial questions and riddles at intervals during 35min tour of downtown Santa Barbara. This was followed by a 20 minute boat ride which started from the marina west of Sterns Wharf which took us around Stern's Wharf and the marina area. The boat captain was also nice enough to take us areas where we could admire some of the sea life and take photos. There were plenty of seals, sea lions, pelicans, and various species of water foul. It was very informative. Please note that no food or alcohol is allowed board. If you have reservations against not being allowed to carry such items with you, I'd strongly suggest other alternatives. I'd recommend this for couples, family members and small groups....
Read moreSplish, splash, fun and laughs. The attached photos were taken during the tour. The Transformer is alive from truck to boat. The anticipation is worth it. Covid conscious and limited seating. First come, first served. The recording is exact.
Tour operator (Maddie) was obviously born and raised and integrated into Santa Barbara's culture. She is a youthful walking historian. Geez, I barely know the name of the next street in my neighborhood. She is entertaining and a hoot The driver was sober and safe 😉.
If you have a day or a few, I encourage all to support this tour business. Parking can be a challenge so plan for walking to location stop. There is no building. The Transformer waits at Cabrillo street and you talk to the employees on the spot.
The tour lasts 90 minutes, no bathroom stops or tour breaks. Suitable for all ages. You have to walk up/then down 9 steps on a...
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