San Diego Whale Watching Cruise
About this activity
Highlights
- Spot majestic gray and blue whales
- Learn from expert naturalist guides
- Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks
- Cruise along San Diego's scenic coastline
- Capture stunning ocean views and wildlife
Full description
Included / Excluded
- 2.5-hour guided whale watching cruise
- Expert naturalist narration
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting point
Start Location
Next Level Sailing - San Diego Whale Watching & Private Yacht Charters, 2050 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
Important information
Know before you book
- Reservations are required; book in advance to secure your spot.
- Children under 3 years old can join for free if seated on a parent's lap.
- Tours operate seasonally; check availability for your desired dates.
Know before you go
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions on the water.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking marine life and coastal scenery.
- Consider motion sickness remedies if you're prone to seasickness.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Please call if you have a wheelchair so we can discuss the boarding options as we have had guests with wheelchairs enjoy this experience. We do have 5 steps in order to board the vessel. There is a single step in the deck. Please call Thank you!
- Adult Ticket for ages 13-99 years old. Child Ticket for ages 0-12.
- 9:00 AM trip: Check in between 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
- 11:00 AM trip: Check-in starts at 10:00 AM and ends at 10:30 AM
- 1:15 PM trip: Check in between 12:30 - 12:45
- 2:00 PM Trip: Check in between 1:15 PM - 1:30 PM
- Bring layers, blankets, and jackets. It can be cold on the water!
Traveler reviews
Beautiful day, Lovely experience!
We had an absolutely lovely day on the America. The staff was very kind and helpful. They were very informative about the boat, history, the trip and the Navy action around us. We had such a wonderful, no hassle, relaxing day. It was fun and we learned a lot about the America Cup Race. They were also very great to include the children that were on the boat. We will recommend them to anyone who is considering a whale watching trip. Kindest Regards, Steve & LeeAnn Webb
Great Experience!
Great polite crew, ship was beautiful and roomy. Not quite whale season yet but we saw a ton of dolphins
Great Day on the Pacific
A really enjoyable experience. Even if you dan't see a whale it is a great thing to be on such a beautiful (like a work of art) sailing ship. All of the workers are friendly and helpful. One woman in particular (she said her name was "Fathom") was very knowledgable, sociable and worked well with kids. Beautiful day, relaxing and fun. (Note: the sign-in desk at the beginning is not easy to find. Keep your phone handy in case you have to call.)
Excellent. Great crew very knowledgeable d entertaining. Highly recommend
Well worth the money. Enjoyed seeing all the water life. The captain was very safety conscious. I felt safe with his years worth of experience which he shared. Unfortunately didn't see any whales but saw a stampede of dolphins searching for sardines. I have never seen baby dolphins. Very exciting. The sea lions were very entertaining with their antics. They had plenty of snacks and cold drinks on board that made it more enjoyable
Amazing!
A truly magical experience. We love taking boat rides, but to have the chance to be on a replica of the original America's Cup was just wonderful. We got to see a pod of about 500 dolphins cavorting and generally looking like they were having more fun than anyone else in the water. The guide was so helpful and imparted so much information - even some about the boats/ships one will see in the bay. We were even given access to some of the photos the crew took! Completely recommend to anyone who loves the ocean and boat rides.