Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Whale watching season is all year long in San Diego! Our team at Next Level Sailing provides the optimal experience with guides so experienced we received a 100 percent success rate during winter whale watching when spotting the King of the Deep.
We are one of the best outdoor activities to do in San Diego. Gray whale watching season spans from mid-December through April. Blue whales and fin whales are seen feeding in San Diego from April - August. Humpback whales and minke whales are seen throughout the year, particularly in the spring, summer, and fall. Aboard our 141-foot sailing yacht, the Yacht America, you will see a plethora of whales firsthand in their natural habitat. In addition to whales, we also see dolphins and sea lions, and an abundance of naval activity. Don't be surprised if you see an F-18 fly overhead!
Bring your own picnic, friends, and family for a wonderful day out on the water
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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!
What To Expect
We sail past North Island Naval Air Station, US Navy Base Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, Point Loma Lighthouse to see sea lions, dolphins and whales.
Options
San Diego Whale Watching Cruise
What‘s Included
4.5-hr sailing cruise
Free Parking. Check-in located next to parking lot.
No seasickness' guarantee: Lose your lunch, we get you a new one
All safety equipment and life jackets
Sodas and snacks
Restroom facilities onboard
Live guide with marine wildlife commentary
Replica historic sailing schooner experience (1851 America's Cup winner)
Whale sighting guarantee: If you don't see a whale, you get to come back for free
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop off NOT included
Bring layers, blankets, and jackets. It can be cold on the water!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
2,464 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Whales
178becksg,Jun 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So exciting to be out there in the water with these giant sea creatures. Really enjoyed myself highly recommend
Best day ever!
Joyce H,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Went out with the crew on Saturday, June 6 and got to see whales and a mega pod of dolphins. It was amazing!! Highly recommended!!
Great experience...
Julie V,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience traveling with kids (8 and 4 yo). Saw blue whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Guides were knowledgeable and accommodating. Smooth sailing.
Family Excursion and Fun
656caseyv,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew was friendly and knowledgeable. It was fun for the family. Saw lots of animals, including a humpback. Even the two teens that weren’t thrilled to go had a good time!
Must do! Don’t miss out.
Robin B,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely wonderful experience. It was my 2nd time and would book again when in the area. Bring sunglasses.
Good trip and good tour operator
K5114KRmanishp,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Wonderful experience. Lack of not able to see whales was a big disappointment. This was mainly from my kids' point of view. But overall good trip. The tour operators were excellent. Very engaging and fun.
Adventure on the America!
PackerFansJandJ,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The crew of the America was fabulous! We did not see whales but saw hundreds of dolphins, sea lions & a sunfish. Being on a classic replica gave a very adventurous feel.
Great
Joshua L,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience, would absolutely do it again. 10 out of 10 recommend! Loved the guides they were very helpful and made the experience even greater
Whale watching on historic ship
Lisa L,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful historic (replica) wooden boat with large sails! Knowledgeable guide and captain. Smooth sailing the whole way!
So fun!
Melissa C,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We saw more whales our first time, but the trip out to sea is reliably a great experience. We love the open ship and it’s never overcrowded. Definitely dress warmer than you’d expect. It gets chilly out there!
Related Experiences
Operated by San Diego Whale Watching & Charters - Next Level Sailing