Escape the crush of Los Angeles and experience the grace and beauty of the “Mediterranean Coast”, just 26 miles away in one of the most appealing boutique hotels in Southern California: Hotel Villa Portofino. Now available is its “Villa Venturer Package”, available through October 31, 2009, with rates starting at $161.50/night, double occupancy, plus tax, and includes:

• Accommodations at the oceanfront Hotel Villa Portofino
• Continental breakfast
• Welcome gift
• R/T boat transportation aboard Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point
• R/T taxi transfers between boat dock and hotel
• 1 ¼ hour snorkel trip with Catalina Ocean Rafting

Weekend rates are higher, and a two night minimum stay is usually required.

Upon arrival at one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, guests will enjoy 45 minutes of water time to explore the undersea gardens. Snorkel gear and instruction is included.

Trips start at 8:30 am everyday and run every 1 ½ until the last departure at 4:00 pm. Guest must meet at Catalina Ocean Rafting 15 minutes prior to departure with bathing suits on and their own towels. Wetsuits may be rented for an additional $5. Children under five and pregnant women are unable to participate. In the event of rain or rough seas, the trip may be cancelled or delayed.

Take in the clean ocean air and slower pace of island life, with a little escape to Southern California’s most engaging island, by calling 1-888-34-OCEAN, 888-510-0555, or locally, 310-510-0555.

Visit www.hotelvillaportofino.com.  For transportation, call Catalina Express at 800-429-4601, or log on to www.catalinaexpress.com.