Hike to Smugglers Cove on Santa Cruz out of the Ventura harbor.
Details
Deans Pirates invade Santa Cruz Island!
There will be a little weather so bring appropriate clothes. I plan to go as long as the boat can get us there. I posted a forecast for tomorrow's sea conditions. Looks like it should be an easy ride.
See you tomorrow in your rain gearπ
This trip will start with a boat trip at 8:00 AM via Island Packers from Ventura to Santa Cruz Island. At Scorpion Harbor (Santa Cruz Island) Island Packers will transport the group from the ferry to the shore in small boats. Extra shoes and socks or water socks are recommended to keep your hiking boots dry during this transfer.You can buy the boat tickets on line or call Island Packers. The hike will be 8-10 miles with around 2,000 feet of climbing. We will make a looping trip around the North side of the island and then head to Smugglers Cove. Cleverly enough the cove was used by smugglers during the prohibition years. There are ways to add some extra miles while the group takes a break there.
Due to the number of requests I have received I will reverse the direction of the hike. This will give those who do not wish to complete the whole hike a 7 mile hike with 1400 feet of climbing. At the end of the break at Smugglers Cove there will be a pirates drawing to give away a pirate themed prize. Anyone who wears anything pirate related( hat, eyepatch,black bandana, cardboard sword, etc) will be given a chance to draw for the prize. Feel free to do as you please as this activity is totally optional.
After break the group will head back to Scorpion Harbor to catch the 4:30 ferry home.
The plan is to take the 8:00 am boat to Scorpion and the 4:30 home. As of this writing there are 80 seats on outbound boat but only 40 on the return boat. There is also a 3:30 boat that you can sign up for if the 4:30 fills up. If you choose that option you might need to leave a little earlier than the main group from Smugglers cove to catch the boat.
I have posted the information on the boats and the hikes as pictures. You should be able to find all you need there.
One last thing.. Before you ask.. This trip will last 11 hours
I am not a professional guide and am only sharing my plans for the day. Should you choose to follow me you are on your own and responsible for your own safety as well as catching the ferries.
By signing up for this event you agree that you have read, understand and accept all the rules associated with "Hiking With Dean"