Was just in Monterey this past weekend (Feb. 7-10) and my husband dove (I was working). Water temp was 45 at depth. Right now, due to the cold, there is very little kelp. Vis ranges from 0 feet up to around 60 feet, depending on conditions (wind, surge, etc), and can change dramatically in just a few minutes. Cypress is a nice boat, I believe they also go to Point Lobos on Thursdays. I don't know their website off hand, but I believe they have one.
Monterey diving can be incredible. The otters have been decreasing in number, as have sea lions (they can get quite aggressive, so be prepared. I had one grabbing my fin and nibbling and didn't realize it until my husband pointed behind me, and I turned to see this incredible creature "smiling" at me. During mating and/or pup season they can get quite aggressive and have been known to "charge" divers who get too close.) The sand dollar fields are really a trip -- I had only seen "dead" ones before diving, so I didn't know what I was seeing until we returned to the boat and I asked. All these little round thingys in a row ... also metridium (I think that is correct spelling) fields, strawberry anenomes, ling cod, octopus, and the kelp -- when it is there.
Usually if you are solo, you will get assigned a buddy on board. Be sure you are comfortable diving in COLD water and definitely bring a dive light. Dive depths depend on the rest of the people on the boat and conditions. Usual dives when Advanced are all on boat is 90+ feet for first dive and around 75 for second. If only OW on boat, will go to dive sites more in the 60 foot range.
If you want more details, let me know and I can find the websites for you.
Regards,
Margaret