How to Get Here
Wrigley Marine Science Center visitors have two options for traveling to WMSC: USC’s vessel the Miss Christi, and the public Catalina Express ferry.
Note: We do not recommend attempting to travel directly between Avalon and WMSC on Catalina Island. Please plan your journey via the mainland.
Traveling on the Miss Christi
USC’s vessel the Miss Christi is operated by the Wrigley Institute and stops at the WMSC dock. Travel is free during scheduled runs, which typically occur 3 days/week. The boat can also be chartered for off-schedule runs (e.g., on weekends). Boat seats or charters may be requested through our normal reservations process.
The Miss Christi docks at the Southern California Marine Institute in San Pedro, CA. Boat capacity is 42 passengers. Note that the boat is typically offline for 1-2 months each winter for required annual inspection and maintenance.
See our Boat Passenger Information page for full details.
Traveling on the Catalina Express
The Catalina Express (or CatEx) is a public ferry that travels to Two Harbors, roughly 2.5 miles from the WMSC campus. It does not stop at the WMSC dock.
The CatEx is operated by the Catalina Island Company and has a seasonal schedule. Boats that travel to Two Harbors dock in San Pedro, CA.
Guests who wish to travel aboard the CatEx must book their own tickets. Transportation between Two Harbors and WMSC must be arranged in advance and is available via third-party shore boat or WMSC vehicle. Ask your WMSC reservations specialist for details.
Before You Arrive
Before traveling to the Wrigley Marine Science Center, please ensure that each member of your group reviews the information at the links below. If you have any questions, please speak with your reservations specialist.
Activity Forms
Depending on your planned activities, you may also need to review or complete one or more of the items below. Ask your reservations specialist for guidance on what is required for you or your group.