For boaters, weekend cruising doesn’t have to involve long passages or complicated logistics. Sometimes the most rewarding trips are short runs that offer a change of scenery, a new dock to tie up at, and just enough distance to feel like a getaway. Along the Central Coast, the cruise from Ventura Harbor to Channel Islands Harbor continues to stand out as an ideal example of slip-to-slip cruising done right.
The route covers roughly 10 nautical miles and follows a familiar stretch of coastline, making it approachable for both seasoned cruisers and boaters testing their first overnight trip away from home. With the Channel Islands often visible offshore and the coast unfolding steadily to the east, the passage offers just enough time underway to enjoy the rhythm of cruising without fatigue setting in.
Before making the run, however, understanding how Channel Islands Harbor is laid out — and how it operates — helps ensure a smooth arrival…