Raptor FAQ's
Do I need a Reservation?
Yes.
When does the boat leave?
Unless otherwise specified, all trips begin boarding at 7 am and depart at 8 am (after a safety briefing and a verbal roll call).
Please be aware that the posted times for all the trips are DEPARTURE TIMES, meaning that the boat will pull away from the dock at that time. The Raptor prides itself on running a tight ship, which includes making every effort to leave the dock on time, so plan to arrive no less than 60 minutes before the posted departure time.
Boarding officially begins one hour before the posted departure time, so we recommend taking advantage of the extra time to check in with the divemaster (show your cert card, fill out your release, and get your dive station assignment) as well as setting up and testing your gear and hanging up your wetsuit or drysuit with the hanger that is provided.
We dread pulling away from the dock with no-shows, so please be aware of the departure times and allow extra time if you need to pick up any rental equipment before the trip. The rental department also opens one hour before departure.
How can the check-in process be expedited?
Arrive on time, have your certification card ready to present, and fill out the release waiver provided by the crew.
What is your cancellation/rebooking policy?
If Raptor Dive Charters cancels your trip for any reason, you will be offered your choice of a rebooking credit or a refund.
In the event you cancel your trip, the following cancellation/rebooking policy applies:
- Cancellations received more than 14 days before the booked trip date receive 100% rebooking credit.
- Cancellations received 8-14 days before the booked trip date receive a 50% rebooking credit.
- Cancellations received seven or fewer days before the booked trip date receive no rebooking credit.
How long is the boat ride?
The average travel time for the Raptor to get to Anacapa is one hour. However, this can vary slightly based on sea conditions and will take longer if we slow down to observe wildlife in the Channel on the way to the island.
Santa Cruz takes about 10-15 minutes longer.
Does the divemaster dive with us?
No, our divemaster stays on the boat for surface assistance. You will be given a full dive briefing on the location and typical dive profile. If you are a solo traveler, we will do our best to buddy you up with a fellow diver(s). If you are interested in hiring a guide to dive with you, please call in advance so that arrangements can be made.
Do you offer rental gear?
Yes, we have a complete inventory of rental gear from 7MM wetsuits to full-weight integrated BCDs, regulators, and everything in between.
Can I bring my tanks?
You can, but we cannot refill tanks on the boat. Therefore, you must bring the appropriate number of tanks (two tanks for a two-tank trip or three tanks for a three-tank journey).
Do you provide food?
We have a rotating menu of instant provisions such as oatmeal, coffee and teas, soups and noodles, and light snacks like tinned fish and fresh fruit. We strive for our commitment to being eco-friendly by trying to stay away from single-use plastics and utilize ocean-friendly packaging featuring a variety of high-quality, nutritious refreshment options for you.
What do you provide on your trips?
We also supply steel tanks for the divers, with a choice between our standard LP 85s or HP 72s in either yoke or DIN configurations.
Weights are not included in the trip fee; however, they are available for rent when you arrive. We have both soft weights (bean-bag style) and hard weights on a weight belt.
