Water activity

San Diego: Whale Watching Tour

4.2  / 5254 reviews
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Water activity
San Diego: Whale Watching Tour
4.2  / 5254 reviews

Get an up-close look at whales with San Diego's most experienced crew. Between December and April, approximately 20,000 gray whales migrate along the coast of San Diego.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 3.5 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English
Wheelchair accessible

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

R
Robert – United States

Captain was great consistently providing info throughout whale watch excursion. Biology guide also did well using props of whale’s vertebrae, and examples of food they eat. Boat was real nice and relatively smooth. Bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, nice amenity to have a bar onboard.

C
Courtney – United States

We saw two pods of grey whales on Feb 4. We had a small group on board so everyone has a front row seat. Could see the large boat being less enjoyable if it was at capacity. Guide helped direct us so we were in the right spot to see the whales. Water is choppy. So not for those easily sea sick.

Experience

Highlights

  • Venture out into the open ocean on a San Diego whale-watching cruise
  • Learn about the ocean's ecosystem through live commentary by expert guides
  • Discover the beauty of the San Diego Bay on a two-story sailing yacht
  • See gray whales in their natural habitat as they migrate along the coast
  • Soak in 360-degree views from the main level or head to the upper sundeck

Full description

Marvel at the amazing views of San Diego Bay as you look out for sightings of marine wildlife including dolphins, sea lions, gray whales, and more. Your tour will be led by ocean experts as you get a deeper understanding of the ocean ecosystem and the sea creatures that live in it. Discover the San Diego coast on a two-story whale watching yacht, featuring 360-degree views from the main level and upper sundeck, multiple restrooms, and free guest WiFi. You will follow the whale migration path to bring you up close for the best sighting spots, which change every day. Early in the season, whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. On their return trip, northbound whales swim further out, up to 9-12 miles off the coast. Make sure to wear layers as it can get pretty cool on the bay and don't forget to wear your sunscreen and hat while on this excursion. Bring your camera to capture all the memories you'll make on this exciting adventure.

Includes

  • Cruise on a two-story whale watching yacht with 360-degree views
  • Free guest WiFi
  • Commentary and tour led by ocean experts
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food and drink

Not suitable for

  • People prone to seasickness

Select participants and date

Participants

Meeting point

Please check in at the "Flagship" ticket booth before departure.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Sun hat
  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Binoculars
  • Thermal clothing

Not allowed

  • Smoking
  • Pets (assistance dogs allowed)

Know before you go

  • The vessel is partially handicap accessible to indoor main deck, restrooms are downstairs and open exterior is upstairs (no elevators available).
  • See whales or you'll get to go out again for free on your next trip
  • Children 3 and under ride for free
  • If you are prone to seasickness, consider medication in advance

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 254 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.4/5
  • Transportation
    4.5/5
  • Value for money
    4.2/5

Customer photos

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R
Robert – United StatesFebruary 16, 2025 – Verified booking
Captain was great consistently providing info throughout whale watch excursion. Biology guide also did well using props of whale’s vertebrae, and examples of food they eat. Boat was real nice and relatively smooth. Bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, nice amenity to have a bar onboard.
C
Courtney – United StatesFebruary 15, 2025 – Verified booking
We saw two pods of grey whales on Feb 4. We had a small group on board so everyone has a front row seat. Could see the large boat being less enjoyable if it was at capacity. Guide helped direct us so we were in the right spot to see the whales. Water is choppy. So not for those easily sea sick.
K
Katharina – United StatesJanuary 29, 2025 – Verified booking
It was really fun! But 100% bring a jacket and beanie. We saw a humpback whale, many dolphins and even a big group of sea lions hunting. The guids were very informative. Would do it again.

Product ID: 208806

Activity provider:Flagship Cruises and Events.

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