We are the first vessel and crew to discover great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) and pioneer shark cage diving at Guadalupe Island in 2000. From liveaboard dive charters to the Channel Islands, to research expeditions, shark film and tv productions, we have been going further and doing more since 1971.
No single white shark cage diving vessel in the world has inspired more shark divers at Guadalupe Island. Since 2000, when our liveaboard first rounded Shark Fin Rock at Guadalupe and dropped shark cages into the gin clear waters of Point Norte, divers and white shark researchers have been in awe of what this location has become - 22 years later.
No single white shark cage diving vessel in the world has inspired more shark divers at Guadalupe Island. Since 2000, when our liveaboard first rounded Shark Fin Rock at Guadalupe and dropped shark cages into the gin clear waters of Point Norte, divers and white shark researchers have been in awe of what this location has become - 22 years later.
Services
Southern California and San Diego has been described as the birthplace of the diving industry. Since 1971 we have been at the forefront of this industry leading extraordinary scuba expeditions and liveaboard dive charters to the Channel Islands, Baja, Guadalupe Island and beyond. Founded by the husband and wife team of Lou and Sandy Grivetto, the Horizon Charters of today only slightly resembles the original version.
Your Guadalupe Island shark cage diving adventure starts right here. Our helpful crew members will show you to your vessel accommodations in San Diego and get you settled into your cage diving home away from home for the next few days. Ship orientation and departure tonight. Guadalupe Island and great white sharks here we come!
Time and again, our shark divers tell us that they like to cage dive on America's Shark Boat so they can meet new people and challenge themselves by learning a new skill, like shark diving. Our shark crew are professional shark divers, but that doesn't mean you have to be. We designed our cage diving adventures for non certified divers, offering a shark diving vacation that is safe, and out of the ordinary.
Every once in a while Horizon Charters puts together a dive expedition that takes you to places not normally seen in Southern California. This is one of them. Rediscover Santa Barbara, San Nicholas and SW end of San Clemente with us this June and experience California diving as it used to be. This expedition not only offers some of the best diving So.
Dive California's Channel Islands and discover a seasonal scuba wonderland close to home. California's Southern Channel Islands offers the best scuba diving with the Pacific's natural beauty the world has to offer - bar none. We have been offering affordable liveaboard dive trips for groups and private dive charters here since the early 1980's.
Reviews (28)
Clint R.
Jan 10, 2022
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If you are looking for well run, safe multi-day dive boat, this is the one for So. Cal. We just spent 3 days out at the Channel Islands and had a fantastic time. I have done many multiple day boat trips out to the Channel Islands and this was by far the best run trip I have been on. Captain Spencer and Cary as well as the Dive Master Branden, crew, and cooks, all went out of their way to make the trip fun, safe and special. Boat is clean and well set up for diving.
Thanks Team Horizon Charters, Till out next trip!
Thanks Team Horizon Charters, Till out next trip!
Christopher
Nov 06, 2021
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There was the break I needed and there is no other way to describe this trip other than "life-changing."
I put this trip off for 29 years and I would do it 1000 times over again.
Crew was first-rate and if anyone is contemplating this trip, contemplate no more. Book it!
I could write a novel about my experience but there are not enough characters to describe it. Just do it.
I put this trip off for 29 years and I would do it 1000 times over again.
Crew was first-rate and if anyone is contemplating this trip, contemplate no more. Book it!
I could write a novel about my experience but there are not enough characters to describe it. Just do it.
Jessica H.
Oct 28, 2021
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Just got back from my second trip with horizon charters to do the great white diving in Guadalupe! These guys are simply wonderful wonderful people! The crew pretty much feels like family and you’ll miss the guys when you leave! It’s tough work to be out there every day and the guys always do it with passion and do everything they can to make your experience an unbelievable one! Shea is the amazing on board cook and the sweetest person alive, captain spencer is hilarious and makes you feel safe aboard, Lalo the dive instructor is so patient and takes his time to make sure every diver is comfortable
Ricky Malone
Oct 28, 2021
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I just returned from a true bucket list ADVENTURE. The sharks were more amazing then I could have ever imagined. They’re grace and power are unmatched in any other creature I’ve ever see. Tv does not do justice to these magnificent creatures. And to cap off an amazing trip was a very knowledgeable, helpful, courteous captain and crew. They were almost as amazing as the sharks. The food was very good and lots of it. And I just can’t emphasize enough how attentive they were between they’re knowledge of the sharks to they’re help with anything you need. If you are looking for an adventure
Alexandra Morgan
Oct 21, 2021
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The best trip ever! The crew was amazing from the moment we stepped on the boat. They provided so much and were great to talk to.The food was delicious. They took the time to get to know each of us and were overall great hosts. The cage diving was also incredible. The water was so clear and we saw so many sharks. There wasn't one dive where I didn't see one. I would 10/10 recommend booking with Horizon Charters and I will definitely go back!
Jamie H.
Oct 05, 2021
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We just returned from an amazing trip aboard the Horizon. It was the trip of a lifetime. They really do take care of everything for you. The crew are a great group of people: captains Spencer and Cary made our ride a comfortable as could be; and crewmen Brendan and John helped with making sure the boat was tip top shape and assisted with diving. Mike and Shea created three amazing meals per day (and snacks in between). I was impressed with the variety of meals they prepared at sea. We saw 20+ different sharks. Lalo was our dive master. As a group of people who had never been diving, breathing through
Owen McDonald
Aug 16, 2021
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I went with my wife and had absolutely no intention of diving during Trip 2, 2021. I was adamant that I was not going to the point I didn’t even bring swim trunks. However, after seeing the dynamic of the crew functioning and the confidence exuded by dive master Lalo, I tried it and am so glad I did. We saw multiple sharks each dive. I don’t know how you top this experience other than to climb Everest or go into space and come back alive and happy. There were 3 women traveling by themselves on our trip (my concern for my wife), and I observed nothing but total respect and care for them by the
Amy Willman
Aug 04, 2021
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Horizon Charters is wonderful! I recently went on a 3 day liveaboard trip to the Channel Islands (San Clemente & Catalina) with a scuba/spearfishing group with Horizon. Their boat is really nice and well equipped with comfortable beds (A/C in sleeping quarters), 3 showers (with shampoo, conditioner, and bodywash), and plenty of storage space. The crew is amazing! They are all super nice, very professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to safety and regulations. The food prepared for all of our meals was so delicious. Thank you Spencer, Carey, Patrick, Brendan, Jay, Chelsea, Laura, Shae, and John
Lisa Caldwell
Jul 18, 2021
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Such a wonderful experience! I had always wanted to study great whites since I was a child but never had the courage to pursue it and Horizon Charters has reinforced the love for these creatures. They have an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience with White Sharks and they have 5 star liveaboard accommodations. The food was excellent and there was plenty of it Would never recommend another Shark Diving company!
Jordan Sanders
Jul 15, 2021
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Had an outstanding experience on a 6 day dive trip with this boat. The crew was professional, fun and knew what they were doing...not to mention had good senses of humor and were very knowledgeable about sea life. The food was great, and the boat was clean. I'll never forget the chance to dive with sea lions off the coast of Santa Barbara island. It was pretty incredible. Keep up the great work, and hope to get to join you on another excursion in the future!
Mike P.
Jun 19, 2021
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Tawny Thomas
May 26, 2021
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Just did a 6 day diving charter with Horizon with 20 passengers. Was an OUTSTANDING experience. Not only did they take us to some incredible dive sits through the Channel Islands, but their service with meals, upkeep of the boat, sharing marine knowledge, providing kayaks, snorkeling, paddleboards, etc was unsurpassed. We were a mix of experienced and novice divers and we felt safe at every dive site and the suits and gear were all well taken care of and high quality. The captain even sighted a massive humpback whale breaching and slowed the boat for one of the best 15 minute whale shows I've ever
Brant P.
Nov 12, 2020
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By far the greatest experience you can have. I took 18 people with Horizon to Guadelupe and it couldn't have been better. The trip to Guadelupe with Great Whites is a very serious trip that above all else requires PROFESSIONALISM! Everything else is a bonus. You need the best and the team that knows what they are doing. We saw sharks in the perfect, safe, and up-close-and personal way. This boat is based and crewed in the USA, and that makes a huge difference. When the season for 2020 was cancelled for Covid, I got my refund with zero delay or question. I will be going back with Horizon every
Mark W.
Nov 18, 2019
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The experience of a lifetime for this city kid. Everything from the magnificent White Sharks and other undersea life to the Island's unique geology, to living onboard the boat. It is worth the money, including a generous tip like you were on Below Deck.
My dad left me a modest sum. He was an avid fisherman, I was not. I figured it an apropos tribute to him to take some of that and go fishing, just on the other end of the rod, reel, and hook. :)
Do it. Just, do it. You will never forget it nor will you ever sail with a more qualified crew November 8-13, 2019.
Yes, this was a one-off but
My dad left me a modest sum. He was an avid fisherman, I was not. I figured it an apropos tribute to him to take some of that and go fishing, just on the other end of the rod, reel, and hook. :)
Do it. Just, do it. You will never forget it nor will you ever sail with a more qualified crew November 8-13, 2019.
Yes, this was a one-off but
Chad S.
Nov 08, 2019
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First off, just book this trip. They are the best, PERIOD. From start to finish, top to bottom they will surpass your expectations. Plus, no other charter leaves directly from San Diego (no one wants to take a bus to Ensenada).
Boarding Night.
My wife and I wanted to be one of the first to board, so we got to the H&M landing right before 9pm. We figured if it was first come first serve on the bed situation, we would want to have first dibs. Even though we were technically early, we were the last of 18 totally guests to board lol. Dive Master Will was waiting for us at the pier and walked us
Boarding Night.
My wife and I wanted to be one of the first to board, so we got to the H&M landing right before 9pm. We figured if it was first come first serve on the bed situation, we would want to have first dibs. Even though we were technically early, we were the last of 18 totally guests to board lol. Dive Master Will was waiting for us at the pier and walked us
Bill P.
Oct 28, 2019
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You want a dive operation that is safety conscious and follows all Coast Guard regs. That's THIS outfit. (You'd think that would be all dive charters, but it simply isn't so.)
The crew is capable and friendly, without losing their professionalism. That reflects a "top down" approach to crew quality, which means the Captain/Owner is "hands on" with overseeing his crew. Well done.
The berthing is good, the food is good, the destinations chosen are good, the price-point is reflective of their dedication to safety and quality.
Try Horizon and it'll spoil you
The crew is capable and friendly, without losing their professionalism. That reflects a "top down" approach to crew quality, which means the Captain/Owner is "hands on" with overseeing his crew. Well done.
The berthing is good, the food is good, the destinations chosen are good, the price-point is reflective of their dedication to safety and quality.
Try Horizon and it'll spoil you
Stephen C.
Sep 10, 2019
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I just got back from the Guadalupe Island Shark Dive and wanted to write a review while it was still fresh in my mind. Horizon Charters runs a very professional and safe operation. Captain Spencer, Captain Cary, crew members Lalo, Ryan and Will and galley staff Laura and Shea made the long boat ride fun and interesting. They always made sure we knew everything that was going on and took the time to chat and answer questions one on one. Needless to say, seeing white sharks up close is an experience of a lifetime and the crew kept us safe both inside the cages and on the boat. The cabins are comfortable
Linds B.
May 30, 2019
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Had the pleasure of spending a long weekend with Horizon Charters on San Clemente Island. Amazing first liveaboard experience! Captains Spencer and Cary ran a fantastic ship. Our Divemasters were Will and Frank, Crew Cameron, Tias, and Russ, and last but not least we had Shea and Laura making delicious food in the galley. I had no idea what to expect since this was the first time I spent the night on a boat. Needless to say I was totally blown away!
Horizon has everything you could possibly need from comfy bunks to a wonderful staff and a dryer right onboard. Everyone was extremely attentive
Horizon has everything you could possibly need from comfy bunks to a wonderful staff and a dryer right onboard. Everyone was extremely attentive
Michael V.
Nov 19, 2018
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I just finished having the best vacation ever. These guys are as great as it gets. Every step of the way was great. I can't think of anything these guys could do that would make the trip even better. The food was great. The crew was amazing. Everything was taken care of for me. All I had to do was show up and have the time of my life. I even liked how you could tell the crew was passionate about sharks and wanting to share that passion and knowledge. They're the real deal. If you're even remotely interested in seeing great whites up close, give these guys a try. You won&apos
Ada A.
Aug 24, 2018
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We went to Guadalupe Island with Horizon Charters to dive with great white sharks at the beginning of August 2018. We had a great time. I would definitely recommend this operator to other people who want to dive with great whites. The captain and crew took great care of all the divers, and they delivered an unforgettable experience with plenty of shark action, at a reasonable price.
We were on Horizon's first trip of the 2018 season to Guadalupe Island. Finding the landing and the boat in San Diego was easy, and it was nice to be able to embark from a port in the U.S. No worries about traveling
We were on Horizon's first trip of the 2018 season to Guadalupe Island. Finding the landing and the boat in San Diego was easy, and it was nice to be able to embark from a port in the U.S. No worries about traveling
Lauren B.
Aug 15, 2018
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I went on one of the Guadalupe Island Shark Diving trips with my father this past summer (2018). It was an absolutely amazing experience from start to finish!
The registration process was incredibly personal--we always received personal phone calls and emails from the organizer to inform us about the trip and gather information from us as well. Before we even arrived in San Diego we felt like we were going to take a trip with old friends.
Once on the boat, the crew was beyond professional and incredibly friendly. Within the first few hours, crew members were already calling us by name. Crew
The registration process was incredibly personal--we always received personal phone calls and emails from the organizer to inform us about the trip and gather information from us as well. Before we even arrived in San Diego we felt like we were going to take a trip with old friends.
Once on the boat, the crew was beyond professional and incredibly friendly. Within the first few hours, crew members were already calling us by name. Crew
Chris G.
Aug 07, 2018
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NorCal D.
May 07, 2018
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Just the best San Diego dive charter evet! I just got back from a trip to San Clemente island. The diving was superb, cabin was clean and comfortable and Mark's (cook) food awesome! The crew are very knowledgeable and helpful. I can't imagine a better dive experience. Check it out, dive with the best!
Anthony L.
Oct 01, 2017
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I did the Isla Guadalupe dive with Horizon through Shark Diver and I am going to try and do this review without curse words. It was that awesome! This crew is great. From the captain, the cook, the deck hands, dive instructors, everyone was amazing. Not only were they professional, knowledgable, personable, but they were also hilarious! I almost felt uncomfortable about how they cater to your every needs. The food was amazing, your safety and comfort is their main priority. During meals, the captain would even come around refill your drinks, take your dirty plates, etc. They know the good spots
Mars B.
Apr 17, 2017
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This is a really nice boat to dive. They run a bigger crew than most and it shows. You feel like there is enough staff to take care of you and keep things super safe at anytime. Most of the crew seems crossed trained so there are like 4 people who could jump in can handle anything that could come up. I went on a 2.5 day trip to San Clemente. They pump 21% and 32ish%. with a mem type system. The ventilation system is good in the bunks. There is a ton of room on the dive deck. They float the chase boat just in case when divers are in the water. The food was really great. as soon as you pop
Lori O.
Sep 17, 2015
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Andreas K.
Jun 06, 2015
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I was on a dive trip at San Clemente on the Horizon May 7th - 10th with power scuba.
The service and safety standards were excellent. You could really see that this crew had great experience with divers. It shows in tons of details, how they help you in and out of the water, how they check every diver at the gate and keep track of the whereabouts of every person on board during dives. They refilled my tank with 31-32% Nitrox right after every dive and sent me home with a full tank too.
They knew all the nice dive spots at San Clemente and kept the boat in calm waters as much as possible. Kudos
The service and safety standards were excellent. You could really see that this crew had great experience with divers. It shows in tons of details, how they help you in and out of the water, how they check every diver at the gate and keep track of the whereabouts of every person on board during dives. They refilled my tank with 31-32% Nitrox right after every dive and sent me home with a full tank too.
They knew all the nice dive spots at San Clemente and kept the boat in calm waters as much as possible. Kudos
Lee M.
Feb 24, 2014
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What a great trip!
We did the San Clemente Island dive trip. We left on Friday night and stayed in a cabin for the boat ride out there. Which was nice to have and a great option for the trip. When you wake up a great breakfast waiting for you and you are on the first dive location. I can not fully express how easy the crew made our dive trip. There was always a member of the crew willing to help us with gear, get on/off the boat, and just generally around for questions. I also want to call special attention to how good the food is as well, Mark does an excellent job in the galley. Diving with
We did the San Clemente Island dive trip. We left on Friday night and stayed in a cabin for the boat ride out there. Which was nice to have and a great option for the trip. When you wake up a great breakfast waiting for you and you are on the first dive location. I can not fully express how easy the crew made our dive trip. There was always a member of the crew willing to help us with gear, get on/off the boat, and just generally around for questions. I also want to call special attention to how good the food is as well, Mark does an excellent job in the galley. Diving with
