Disney Cruise Line Secures Long-Term Anchorage at Catalina Island

Disney Cruise Line has finalized a long-term agreement with Catalina Island, a popular getaway off the Southern California coast. The city of Avalon—Catalina’s sole municipality—approved a five-year partnership granting Disney Cruise Line preferred access to its harbor’s anchorage areas, which currently lack dedicated docking facilities. This arrangement takes effect in 2027 and includes options for two additional five-year extensions, potentially ensuring Disney’s preferential harbor access for up to 15 years.

Key Details of the Agreement

Under the newly approved terms, Disney Cruise Line will have preferred anchorage rights on Tuesdays year-round and on Saturdays from mid-September to mid-May. According to local officials, the plan does not seek to boost the total number of ships but rather to streamline visitor management and enhance the quality of each visit. Disney Cruise Line has committed to bringing approximately 120,000 passengers to the island annually. In return, it will pay the city of Avalon a $9 per-passenger wharfage fee, which will rise by 2.5% each year. These revenue streams aim to bolster Catalina’s economy while respecting its environmental and operational thresholds.

Disney Cruise Line’s Ongoing Relationship with Catalina

Disney Cruise Line has already been including Catalina Island on its itineraries. The Disney Wonder became the first Disney vessel to visit in 2022, with additional calls taking place throughout 2023. More voyages are scheduled for 2024 and 2025, as the Disney Wonder embarks on Baja Cruises departing from San Diego. By securing this long-term agreement, Disney ensures continuity in featuring Catalina as a marquee stop for families and travelers seeking nature-oriented excursions along the West Coast.

Catalina Island’s Growing Role in the Cruise Industry

Catalina Island has attracted a variety of cruise operators in recent years, emphasizing its unique landscapes and marine sanctuaries. Visitors can explore bison herds, kayaking adventures, falconry expeditions, and sailing experiences. These outdoor offerings have made the island increasingly attractive to eco-conscious tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond Disney, other major lines such as Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Carnival Cruise Line have added Catalina to their West Coast itineraries, underscoring the destination’s rising prominence in the region.

Economic and Environmental Considerations

While the deal with Disney Cruise Line promises a stable stream of visitors, it also showcases the island’s endeavors to balance economic development with conservation. By managing rather than expanding daily visitor totals, local officials aim to curb environmental stresses tied to tourism influxes. Passenger fees will fund conservation initiatives to help protect Catalina’s marine reserves and other natural assets. The cooperation between Catalina’s administration and cruise lines highlights a shared commitment to ensuring that sustainable tourism remains paramount as the industry recovers and grows.

As the cruise sector continues to rebound globally, arrangements like this illustrate how operators and local governments can craft mutually beneficial strategies to accommodate travel demand while preserving treasured destinations.

What benefits does the agreement bring to Catalina Island?

The plan offers Avalon economic stability through per-passenger fees and a predictable flow of visitors, helping local businesses build sustainable operations. At the same time, it aligns with the city’s conservation goals by limiting the overall number of ships.

Does this agreement increase the number of ships visiting Catalina?

No. Rather than adding more ships, the agreement bolsters visitor management. It focuses on maintaining boat traffic at current levels while optimizing the guest experience and mitigating environmental impacts.

Why is Catalina Island a sought-after cruise destination?

Catalina Island’s natural beauty, wildlife reserves, and wide range of outdoor and adventure activities make it an appealing stop for many cruise itineraries. From bison tours to kayaking and sailing, travelers can enjoy a blend of eco-friendly excursions and scenic landscapes.

What other cruise lines plan to visit Catalina in 2025?

Alongside Disney, cruise operators such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line are all scheduled to call on Catalina Island, underscoring its continued growth as a West Coast cruise destination.