Great photographs, and great report. Looks like you two had fun. Done it a few times myself, although I rent from Van Nuys. Never yet made it to Catalina, on the bucket list, although, do you not require a check ride to land there?? Might be wrong on that. Anyway makes you wonder what all the fuss is about in the UK.
Yes I think all FBO/rental places require a Catalina sign off, however in the unlikely event that I pass my CFI check ride next Monday
I would be able to sign you off for Catalina when renting from Justice, the hamburgers would be on you !