Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Embark on a 4-hour whale watching tour. All trips are narrated by a naturalist or marine biologist guide, who will also spend one on one time with guests while on deck. Professional photographers are often sent to capture the spectacular sights seen from on board and are available to offer tips for your own photography.
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
Warm layers are recommended
Sun protection, camera, binoculars, water, and snacks are recommended
If prone to motionsickness, please take precautionary measures and we also sell motion sickness remedies in the shop
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Time listed is when boat LEAVES! Check-in 30-45 minutes ahead
Marine Biologist/Naturalist & Deckhand
Coffee and/or Tea
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks (Chips, Candy, Soda, and Water)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meet at Fisherman's Wharf to begin your whale watching experience at 9am. Monterey Bay is considered to be a premier destination for whale watching year round as these animals are often spotted there. Your whale watching trip will be narrated by a marine biologist or naturalist, who will provide you educational and interesting information about marine wildlife. In addition to teaching you about the wildlife, your marine biologists and naturalists will provide information about the natural history of the local area and talk about conservation. While out on the ocean your marine biologists and naturalists will also be collecting sighting data for scientific research. During your trip the crew will show you how to spot whales and dolphins as well as give you advice on how to best capture photos and videos of the wildlife. You will return back to the original departure point between 12:30pm and 1pm.
1,045 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Janet J,
Oct 27, 2025
- Viator
Seasickness even after taking dramamine may happen so be prepared. A stabilizer for your phone to take better pictures is recommended.
Adriana K,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
Don't hesitate, just book. Money worth 100%. Well maintained boats, hot drinks on board. There is a lot of talk about marine life during the cruise. Friendly staff, friendly staff. Do their utmost to make you enjoy the whales well. We were lucky enough to be ‘surrounded’ by 5 humpback whales so we could not sail away for a long time and therefore admire them for an extra long time. Staff care about nature, enjoy the speed themselves and even pick up floating plastic from the ocean. Super!! Would book again.
Mark D,
Oct 16, 2025
- Viator
Had such a great experience on this tour. Spent around 1.5 hours watching humpback whales feed as well as some sea lions. The crew were mega helpful and informative. Explaining the geography of the bay and the reasons the whales were present. Apparently the sea can get a little choppy in October/when winter starts to set in which is what we experienced so take some travel sickness tablets before getting to the dock if you are prone to feeling motion sickness.
Craig C,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
Fantastic experience and one I will treasure for some time. Got to see humpback whales, orcas and seals up close on this tour. The crew were fantastic and very knowledgeable. Will definitely do this again!!
M L,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
FANTASTIC tour! we got lucky and saw orca's and humpbacks not bad for near the end of Sept. The weather was PERFECT super sunny! I do wish I had something to put on my lap.... I wore a dryfit pullover and a heavy shacket. with leggings. The whole thing was GREAT and well worth it. kids had a blast! next time we are in Monterey I will be sure to book another trip!
Operated by Discovery Whale Watch