Snorkeling Catalina — Local services in Avalon

We didn’t realize that snorkeling was a learned skill. Because they said nothing about lessons, we thought we could rent equipment for the day and figure it out. This establishment said they gave “tours”. It wasn’t clear that their “tours” are lessons. Had we known that, that would have at least been a clue that lessons would be required. We rented equipment for 6 family members. Only 3 of us used our equipment for a very short time quickly realizing that we weren’t going to get this figured out anytime soon. We returned the equipment and because it had been almost 3 hours since we rented it, not only would they not credit us for the 3 sets we didn’t use, but they wouldn’t even give it to us for the two hour minimum. They kept our money for the full day charge. I understand that technically we had the equipment so they couldn’t rent it to someone else, which is what they’re using to justify those charges. But I think they had some culpability in the fact that they’re a professional dive shop and they never asked if we had done this before, even though it was pretty obvious that we hadn’t. In fairness, they did say they might give us a deal on a “tour” if they could squeeze us in over the weekend.. Overall I think they’re more interested in getting money from tourists than promoting the sport...

Amazing fun for anyone who dives or wanted to dive. I planned on using Ron based on these reviews so my girlfriend could scuba dive without being certified as a warm up. ( I am certified). The diving for non-certified is one on one with Ron or another instructor. Safety is their first priority, your fun experience is their second. My gf was afraid to dive before we arrived to dive. Ron and his staff were patient, funny, great communicators. She had a great experience diving down 25 feet to her surprise. You enter to dive at the bottom of stairs that enter the water. They provide great equipment. I had a great time too as a certified diver. There is plenty of kelp and hundreds of fish that surround you to swim with you and hang out. Great visibility. Nice job Ron and staff, this is what great memories...

My wife and I first arrived at Catalina on our honeymoon for the first time and walked pass this dive/snorkeling shop. We walked in to ask any questions we had and a young man by the name of “MATEO” welcomed us and answered all the questions we had. He made us feel so special that I did not want to rent anywhere else for the 3 days we stayed there. I suggest anyone going to Catalina to stop by and definitely check them out and ask for “MATEO” he knows his stuff. Before we left to go back home I stopped by to say goodbye to him but he wasn’t there I hope this will let him know that he definitely left a stamp in our hearts.

Thanks Mateo & Connie...