“The discovery of the Billings is a result of excellent collaboration with the local community,” Robert Schwemmer, maritime archaeologist for NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries said. “Now we can write the final chapter of not only the largest, but the last sailing vessel built by the Hall Brothers during their 30-year career of designing some of the finest ships sailing the Pacific.”

The shipwreck will be protected under state and federal law, and it is illegal to disturb or damage any archaeological sites in sanctuary and park boundaries. The Billings shipwreck remains are now owned by the state of California and managed by the California State Lands Commission. “The Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Park are a world destination for sport diving,” said Chris Mobley, sanctuary superintendent. “For years, divers have shared new discoveries with both federal agencies and we commend them for their spirit of stewardship so these historic resources can be surveyed and shared with the American public.”

About the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary:
Established in 1980, the sanctuary is an area of national significance because of its exceptional natural beauty and resources. It encompasses the waters that surround Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara Islands (five of the eight Channel Islands of California), extending from shore around each of the five islands. The sanctuary’s primary goal is the protection of the natural and cultural resources contained within its boundaries.

Historical information courtesy of Justin M. Ruhge
Photo courtesy of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.

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It is always a good idea to look at the weather forecast for the land as well as for the marine forecast. Both forecasts together help you know the conditions more fully before you go. Your guides will always try their best to stay up to date with the weather forecasts, so feel free to ask them about the conditions as well.

When looking at the conditions, there are some basic terms that are helpful to understand. When the forecast mentions swell height that refers to the height of the wave measured from the trough (the lowest point) to the peak (the highest point). The swell period is the time it takes for successive waves to pass the same point. Wind also plays a factor on tours, whether it is onshore (going from sea to the mainland) or offshore (going from the mainland to sea), and how fast it is blowing. All these factors can impact your kayaking experience.

We do kayak rain or shine, so enjoy the adventure! 

When the weather does impact the trip, please refer to our cancelation policy.

The post A Guide to Channel Islands National Park Weather appeared first on Santa Barbara Adventure Co..