San Diego Whale Watching Tours offer visitors the opportunity to see some of the most magnificent creatures in the ocean, including gray whales, blue whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. The tours typically take place from December through April, when the whales are migrating from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Mexico.
There are several companies that offer whale watching tours in San Diego, each with their own unique experience. Here are a few of the top options:
Hornblower Cruises & Events: This company offers a two and a half hour whale watching tour on a state-of-the-art yacht. The tour includes narration from an experienced captain and naturalist, and the chance to see gray whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. Hornblower also offers a whale watching and brunch cruise on weekends.
San Diego Whale Watch: This company offers a three and a half hour whale watching tour on a comfortable and stable boat. The tour includes narration from an experienced captain and naturalist, and the chance to see gray whales, blue whales, and dolphins. San Diego Whale Watch offers a whale sighting guarantee – if you don’t see a whale, you’ll receive a free pass for a future trip.
Overall, San Diego Whale Watching Tours offer visitors a unique and exciting opportunity to see some of the most magnificent creatures in the ocean, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable accommodations.
Best San Diego Whale Watching Tours
| San Diego Whale Watching Tour | San Diego Whale Watching Cruise | Whale Watching Cruise San Diego | |
|---|---|---|---|
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 |  |  |
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| Duration | 2 to 3 hours | 4 hours | 3 hours |
| Starting Time | 9:00AM - 12:30PM | 9:00AM - 2:00PM | n/a |
| Meeting Point | 1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA | 2050 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA | 990 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92132, USA |
| Includes | Marine biologists | 4.5-hr sailing cruise, Sodas and snacks, Whale sighting | Indoor and Outside seating |
| More Details & Tour Booking | More Details & Tour Booking | More Details & Tour Booking |
Quick Answer: The 7 Best San Diego Whale Watching Tours For [2024]
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Best San Diego Whale Watching Tours Reviews
#1. San Diego Whale Watching Tour
A San Diego Whale Watching Tour is an exciting adventure that takes visitors on a journey to witness some of the most incredible marine life in the world. San Diego is home to a diverse array of whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other marine creatures, making it a prime location for whale watching. Here are some details about what to expect on a San Diego whale watching tour:
- When to go: Whale watching season in San Diego runs from December through April, which is when the whales are migrating from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Mexico. During this time, it is common to see gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales, as well as dolphins and other marine life.
- Tour options: There are several companies that offer whale watching tours in San Diego, each with their own unique experience. Some tours take place on large boats, while others are on smaller, more intimate vessels like catamarans. Some tours include snacks or meals, while others may be shorter or longer in duration.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress in layers, as the weather on the water can be unpredictable. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as a camera to capture the amazing wildlife sightings. Many tours also provide binoculars and warm blankets.
- What to expect: Whale watching tours typically last anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the tour company and the season. During the tour, the captain and crew will provide narration about the marine life and answer any questions you may have. Most tours offer a guarantee that you’ll see whales or dolphins, and some even offer a free return trip if you don’t.
Overall, a San Diego Whale Watching Tour is an exciting and unforgettable experience, providing a chance to witness some of the most majestic creatures in the ocean in their natural habitat.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#2. San Diego Whale Watching Cruise
A San Diego Whale Watching Cruise is a popular way to witness the annual migration of whales as they pass through the waters off the coast of Southern California. These cruises offer visitors a chance to see a variety of whale species, including gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales, as well as dolphins and other marine life.
Here are some details about what to expect on a San Diego whale watching cruise:
- Cruise options: There are several companies that offer whale watching cruises in San Diego, with a range of options for different preferences and budgets. Some companies offer larger, more spacious boats, while others offer smaller, more intimate vessels like catamarans. Some cruises offer refreshments or meals, while others may be shorter or longer in duration.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress in layers, as the weather on the water can be unpredictable. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as a camera to capture the amazing wildlife sightings. Many cruises also provide binoculars and warm blankets.
- What to expect: Whale watching cruises typically last anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the cruise company and the season. During the cruise, the captain and crew will provide narration about the marine life and answer any questions you may have. Most cruises offer a guarantee that you’ll see whales or dolphins, and some even offer a free return trip if you don’t.
- When to go: Whale watching season in San Diego runs from December through April, which is when the whales are migrating from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Mexico. This is the best time to go on a whale watching cruise to maximize the chances of seeing these magnificent creatures.
Overall, a San Diego Whale Watching Cruise is an exciting and educational experience that provides a unique perspective on the beauty and wonder of the ocean’s inhabitants.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#3. Whale Watching Cruise San Diego
A Whale Watching Cruise in San Diego is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. The waters off the coast of San Diego are home to a diverse range of whale species, including gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales, as well as dolphins and other marine life.
Here are some details about what to expect on a San Diego whale watching cruise:
- Cruise options: There are several companies that offer whale watching cruises in San Diego, with various options for different preferences and budgets. Some companies offer larger, more spacious boats, while others offer smaller, more intimate vessels like catamarans. Some cruises may offer snacks or meals, while others may be shorter or longer in duration.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress in layers, as the weather on the water can be unpredictable. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as a camera to capture the amazing wildlife sightings. Many cruises also provide binoculars and warm blankets.
- What to expect: Whale watching cruises typically last from two to four hours, depending on the cruise company and the season. During the cruise, the captain and crew will provide narration about the marine life and answer any questions you may have. Most cruises offer a guarantee that you’ll see whales or dolphins, and some even offer a free return trip if you don’t.
- When to go: Whale watching season in San Diego runs from December through April, which is when the whales are migrating from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Mexico. This is the best time to go on a whale watching cruise to maximize the chances of seeing these magnificent creatures.
Overall, a San Diego Whale Watching Cruise is an exciting and memorable experience that provides a chance to witness some of the most majestic creatures in the ocean in their natural habitat.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#4. San Diego Winter Whale Watching Expedition
A San Diego Winter Whale Watching Expedition is a unique and exciting way to witness the annual migration of gray whales as they travel from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Mexico. The winter months are the best time to see these magnificent creatures, with peak season typically running from December through April.
Here are some details about what to expect on a San Diego Winter Whale Watching Expedition:
- Expedition options: There are several companies that offer winter whale watching expeditions in San Diego, with various options for different preferences and budgets. Some expeditions are longer and more comprehensive, while others are shorter and focus primarily on whale watching.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress in layers, as the weather on the water can be chilly. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as a camera to capture the amazing wildlife sightings. Many expeditions also provide binoculars and warm blankets.
- What to expect: Winter whale watching expeditions typically last from three to six hours, depending on the expedition company and the route. During the expedition, the captain and crew will provide narration about the marine life and answer any questions you may have. Most expeditions offer a guarantee that you’ll see whales or dolphins, and some even offer a free return trip if you don’t.
- Marine life: In addition to gray whales, winter whale watching expeditions may also provide opportunities to see humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, dolphins, and other marine life.
- Education and conservation: Many winter whale watching expeditions in San Diego also have an educational and conservation focus, with onboard naturalists providing information about the marine ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
Overall, a San Diego Winter Whale Watching Expedition is an unforgettable experience that provides a rare opportunity to witness one of the most remarkable migrations in the animal kingdom.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#5. Private Family Whale & Dolphin Adventure in San Diego
A Private Family Whale & Dolphin Adventure in San Diego is a personalized and unforgettable experience for families looking to witness the beauty of whales and dolphins up close. There are several companies in San Diego that offer private whale and dolphin watching tours, which can be customized to suit your family’s interests and preferences.
Here are some details about what to expect on a Private Family Whale & Dolphin Adventure in San Diego:
- Private tour options: Private family tours can be arranged with various tour companies in San Diego, with options for different group sizes and preferences. Some companies offer larger, more spacious boats, while others offer smaller, more intimate vessels like catamarans. You can also choose from different tour durations, from two hours to a full day, depending on your family’s schedule and interests.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress in layers, as the weather on the water can be unpredictable. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as a camera to capture the amazing wildlife sightings. Many tours also provide binoculars and warm blankets.
- What to expect: Private family whale and dolphin adventures typically involve a customized tour that includes narration from the captain and crew about the marine life and the ecosystem. The tour can be tailored to your family’s interests and preferences, with opportunities for swimming or snorkeling in areas where dolphins are known to frequent.
- Marine life: In addition to whales and dolphins, you may also have opportunities to see other marine life, such as sea lions, seals, and pelicans.
- Safety: Private family tours prioritize safety, with experienced captains and crew who are knowledgeable about the local marine life and the surrounding waters. Life jackets and other safety equipment are provided.
Overall, a Private Family Whale & Dolphin Adventure in San Diego is an amazing way to create unforgettable memories with your family while experiencing the beauty and wonder of the ocean and its wildlife.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#6. San Diego Half-Day Marine Wildlife Tour with Lunch
A San Diego Half-Day Marine Wildlife Tour with Lunch is a great way to explore the stunning marine wildlife that calls the waters of San Diego home. This tour typically lasts around four hours and includes a delicious lunch onboard the vessel. Here are some details about what to expect on a San Diego Half-Day Marine Wildlife Tour with Lunch:
- Tour options: Several companies offer half-day marine wildlife tours in San Diego, with different vessels, tour routes, and prices. Some tour companies may offer specialized tours, such as tours focused on whale watching or tours that cater to specific interests like photography or birdwatching.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress comfortably and in layers, as the weather on the water can be unpredictable. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as well as a camera to capture the amazing wildlife sightings. Some tours may also provide binoculars and warm blankets.
- What to expect: The tour typically departs from a designated dock in San Diego and will take you to various locations where you can see a variety of marine wildlife. The tour usually includes narration from the captain and crew, who are knowledgeable about the local marine life and the surrounding waters. During the tour, you may see a variety of marine life, such as sea lions, seals, dolphins, whales, and various species of birds.
- Lunch: A delicious lunch is usually included in the tour, with options such as sandwiches, wraps, salads, and snacks. Drinks are also typically provided, such as water, soda, and juices.
- Safety: Tour companies prioritize safety, with experienced captains and crew who are knowledgeable about the local marine life and the surrounding waters. Life jackets and other safety equipment are provided.
Overall, a San Diego Half-Day Marine Wildlife Tour with Lunch is a great way to experience the beauty and wonder of the ocean and its wildlife while enjoying a delicious meal onboard a comfortable vessel.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
#7. Private Luxurious Sailing Cruise in San Diego Bay
A Private Luxurious Sailing Cruise in San Diego Bay is a unique and memorable way to explore the beautiful San Diego Bay. This type of cruise typically offers a more intimate and customized experience, perfect for couples or small groups looking for a special outing. Here are some details about what to expect on a Private Luxurious Sailing Cruise in San Diego Bay:
- Private tour options: Private luxurious sailing cruises can be arranged with various tour companies in San Diego, with options for different group sizes and preferences. You can choose from different types of boats, including catamarans and yachts, and customize the itinerary to suit your interests and preferences.
- What to bring: It’s important to dress comfortably and in layers, as the weather on the water can be unpredictable. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also recommended. Some tours may provide snacks and drinks, but you may want to bring your own as well.
- What to expect: A private luxurious sailing cruise typically includes a knowledgeable captain and crew who will guide you through the sights and sounds of San Diego Bay. You may have the opportunity to see some of the famous landmarks and attractions of San Diego, such as the USS Midway Museum, Coronado Bridge, and the San Diego skyline. You can also customize your itinerary to include stops for swimming or snorkeling, or to explore the hidden coves and beaches of San Diego Bay.
- Amenities: Private luxurious sailing cruises typically offer a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, shaded areas, music, and a restroom. Some tours may also offer additional amenities, such as champagne or gourmet snacks.
- Safety: Safety is a top priority on private sailing cruises, with experienced captains and crew who are knowledgeable about the local waters and weather conditions. Life jackets and other safety equipment are provided.
Overall, a Private Luxurious Sailing Cruise in San Diego Bay is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty and serenity of San Diego Bay in a luxurious and personalized setting.
More Details & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours in advance of the experience
Francis Porter is a seasoned traveler and tour guide with over 15 years of experience in the industry. I have explored countless destinations around the world and have a deep passion for helping others discover new places and cultures.