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I took a round-trip ferry to a stunning island off the coast of California for $122. It was the perfect day trip.

I took a ferry to a beautiful island off the coast of California. I enjoyed the perks of an upgraded ticket and spent the day exploring the island.

I embarked on a day trip to Catalina Island, a picturesque destination off the coast of California. Allison Tibaldi I opted for the Catalina Express ferry, which offers an enhanced experience for $61 per ticket. This includes priority boarding, access to the Commodore lounge, complimentary refreshments, and priority boarding. Located approximately 22 miles from Los Angeles, Catalina Island boasts a quaint European atmosphere.

After arriving at the Catalina Express terminal in Long Beach, I utilized my senior discount to reduce my fare to $61. I opted for a premium ticket, which I found to be a worthy investment considering the benefits, such as priority boarding and the seating area. Upon boarding, I chose a window seat in the Commodore lounge, enjoying the extra space and comfort compared to the standard seats.

Once onboard, I took advantage of the complimentary snacks, savoring a Chex Mix packet and a chocolate-chip cookie from the Commodore lounge. I also selected a cup of coffee, complete with various milk or half-and-half options. The crew member was attentive, providing a range of beverage choices included in the ticket price.

As we approached Catalina Island, I stepped outside to enjoy the fresh sea breeze on the spacious outdoor deck. The autumn sunshine and clear waters provided a delightful atmosphere. Shortly after, the ferry docked at Avalon, the main tourist hub on Catalina Island.

I explored the charming town, taking in the pastel-colored buildings lining the mountainside and the fishing boats in the harbor. Most residents of Avalon do not own cars, opting instead for golf carts to navigate the island. I then rested on the beach, admiring the panoramic views of the island.

Lastly, I joined a guided kayaking tour, embarking on a 90-minute adventure filled with island history and encounters with vibrant marine life. The entire experience, priced at $122 round trip, was a rejuvenating day trip that left me feeling relaxed and invigorated.

Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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