What type of trip are you looking for – one day, several days, camping, hotels? I’ve been using Catalina Freight for 4 years to ship kayaks and gear for boat in camping, going again this year. So, a bit of experience there that may provide some ideas.
This year we bought yearly passes on the Catalina Flyer out of Newport, going every 2 weeks to rent kayaks and fish, leave on the morning boat and return that afternoon. We are getting something like 4.5 hours on the water. At this point the Flyer is probably booked all summer but maybe not so with other boats from other locations. Other boats may get you extended fishing time because they leave later from Avalon. I live in Newport so the Flyer is pretty easy but that 4:30 departure time really cuts into time on the water.
I posted details in this thread if you are interested in an extended trip. A one day, or maybe even an Avalon weekend stay, using Catalina Freight isn’t worth the effort. Rent at Descanso Beach.
http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwevb/s...ad.php?t=19295
Check out the recent Catalina posts by Wade. Now that guy really knows how to do a weekend, or any type of trip, to Avalon, looks to me like he rents from Descanso Beach.
Good luck with the trips you do.