Dolphin & Whale Watching in California

Go whale-watching from San Diego aboard a replica of a historic sailing schooner that won the world's first America's Cup sailing competition in 1851. Throughout your 4-hour cruise, your expert guide shares informative commentary about gray whales, dolphins and other marine animals, along with details about the US Navy sites you pass as you head out on the Pacific Ocean. Your cruise includes refreshments and a complimentary same-day admission ticket to the San Diego Maritime Museum.

Cruise off the coast of Orange County in search of whales on this 2.5-hour excursion from Newport Beach. Watch the rugged, beautiful scenery of the Pacific Coast glide by as you listen to interesting commentary from your crew about the native California marine life. Watch for blows and tail slaps; these signal that humpback, minke, grey, finback or giant blue whales are near. Dolphins and other marine life are also in abundance during this family-friendly, year-round whale watching tour.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this half-day whale watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your 4-hour cruise. Get tips for great photo ops and learn all about the mighty creatures at one of California's most famous whale-watching destinations.

Go whale watching in San Francisco on this 2.5-hour cruise that departs from Pier 39. On an eco-friendly catamaran, glide through San Francisco Bay and under the Golden Gate Bridge to reach the open Pacific, where you'll keep your eyes peeled for humpback and gray whales, as well as marine life like dolphins and seals. Learn about the history and geology of the area from an onboard naturalist, and admire the rugged California coast.

Look for whales during a 3-hour boat tour from Monterey, the premier destination in northern California for winter whale watching. Learn about the majestic animals from a marine biologist or naturalist guide who shares detailed commentary about the whales, dolphins, sea lions, sea birds, and natural history of the region.

Take a break from the busy streets of San Diego and try your hand at deep-sea fishing on this half-day cruise. Head to a Pacific Ocean spot known for its game fish "“ sand bass, bonito, yellowtail and more "“ and try your hand at angling. Experienced anglers can jump right in; if you're new to deepwater angling, the cruise's crew will provide personalized coaching so that you're hooking fish in no time.

Go on a whale-watching expedition in San Diego on this 4-hour cruise guided by Birch Aquarium experts. Get the scoop from a guide who studies the migratory patterns of grey whales as you keep a lookout for whales in the water. Board a 2-story yacht that gives you 360-degree views of the ocean. Plus, you're guaranteed to see whales or you get to ride again for free.