Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
During your whale-watching cruise, learn fascinating details about all types of California sea life from the onboard naturalist with the beautiful coastal scenery of Newport Beach & Laguna Beach as backdrop. Year-round whale-watching cruises like this one are rare, so don’t miss this chance to see giant blue, finback, grey, minke and humpback whales. Over half dozen different types of dolphin including giant Risso Dolphin at over 12 feet in length, white sided dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and common dolphin. See super pods of dolphin sometimes numbering over 1000 dolphin strong.
The luxury option includes a spacious yacht with numerous features including 360 degree walk around deck, a lower passenger count and greater speeds for going the distance to see mammals.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. No high heels are allowed.
Outside alcohol, ice chests, coolers or glass containers are strictly prohibited.
Vessel may change depending on availability.
Arrive at least 1 hour early for all tours- especially during summer months. Parking may be challenging, especially on weekends.
What To Expect
We have the potential of viewing giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales, minke whales, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin and many more in their natural habitat! With one the largest marine protected parks just outside of Newport Bay, whales and dolphin of all types can be viewed as soon as you leave the bay. Once you check in to receive your boarding pass and board our vessels, you will have a 15-minute cruise through our beautiful Newport Harbor viewing multi-million-dollar mansions along the harbor coastline as well. Also, during this time, feel free to head to the galley to purchase the beverage of your choice (cocktails, beer, wine, soda or water). Once we hit the open ocean, we will be in search for wildlife of all kinds (sharks included)! Choose a seat inside our galley area or outside for the best views!
Options
Luxury Cruise
Luxury Yacht: Spacious & luxurious yacht with numerous features Including 360 degree walk around deck, with dual bows for ultimate viewing. Low Passenger Count: Low passenger number (only 37 guests max) for an intimate experience. Speed: Greater speed for going the distance to see mammals and/or spending more time viewing mammals and less time traveling to them
Standard Cruise
Multiple Departure times: Multiple departure times available for standard tours. Boat accompanies 155 passengers max
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
2.5-hour whale-watching cruise
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Parking may be challenging during summer months- please arrive early
Free trolley information can be found on the City of Newport Beach website
Parking Fees located at Balboa Pier Municipal Lot
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
1,009 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A lieutenant Dan and the storm kind of day!
Andrea M,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We went out on a choppy ocean day. My son and I had a blast standing at the bow of the boat as we crashed head on into waves. Eventually we were told we were turning around due to the swells. Didn’t get to see any marine life, but we had a friggin blast anyways, and they gave us a ticket to return whenever for free. I highly recommend anyways! 🤗
Great way to spend the day.
Vinita W,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a great time. Saw a hump back and tons of dolphins swimming along side us. Staff was very friendly and so helpful with getting my 87 yr. Old mother on board for her Birthday celebration.
Excellent organization and a good vessel.
716sunnyy,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00All was good except one advice for future. The one who makes announcements and explanation over speaker throughout the tour, she talked too fast, her voice sounded too sharp and almost mechanical, it will be better using soothing voice in slower speed.
Texting boat driver
Ashley A,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
2.00Not the best boat to go on a whale tour and not roomy if you ride in the front you will get soaked and the driver of the boat was on her phone the entire time she was driving. And the parking is $40 to park where the prefer you too
A-Okay
Tricia and Adam H,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00We had a 2 hour boat ride which was supposed to be 2.5 hours long. The captain was okay. This was our second time with this whale watching business. It was lacking in some information and shorter time on the water. We chose to return because of our last whale watching visit. Somewhat disappointed.
wonderful experience. We...
Sanaa M,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00wonderful experience. We got lucky and got to see a humpback whale do a somersault. PLENTY of dolphin encounters and some sealions. The crew is great at explaining what we're seeing and where to look etc.. smooth ride, good space indoors if you're feeling cold and don't want to get splashed.
A beautiful morning out at Sea
McClarenJames,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The experience of course was amazing. It was very easy to check in and board the boat! The captain which unfortunately I can’t remember her name was very nice and informative. We saw a large pod of dolphins and sea lions! Thank you for the wonderful time!!
Great cruise! Great crew!
Jessie C,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Captain and deck hands were excellent! Fun trip lots of dolphins, sea lions and sun! Didn’t see whales but it is always hit or miss.
Experience lifetimes
Gary F,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience I will go back with other family members. Saw Whales and alot of Dolphins. Beautiful views
You don’t always see...
KathleenM F,May 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00You don’t always see whales but the boat goes out about 5 miles and you always see dolphins and sometimes sea lions. It’s a nice little trip regardless.
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