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.
1,026 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Heather S,
Sep 10, 2025
- Viator
Easy bike trip where you can travel down part of 17 mile drive. The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable
Lingtian C,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
Amazing experience! We got to see many humpback whales so close. They were just hanging around the boat.
Yun C,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
This is a fantastic whale watching tour. We heard that it’s a guaranteed trip to see at least one whale. In our trip, we saw sea otters, two sharks, one sun fish jumping out of the water and more than a decade of humpback whales. Captain JJ observed a feeding zone from distance and brought us to witness the vertical feeding moment by two female whales. More amazingly, we met two whales playing with our boat for 30min. It’s truly a blessing to closely see these animals dancing in the water and sniffing on our faces. The crews are so energetic and welcome. Maddy and Kalea also showed us the greatest passion and girl power as deckhands! This trip gave me the best birthday gift. Thanks for the nature and all the crews!
Marco M,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
Excellent experience . Great staff. Very informative information on the trip. This is something everyone should experience when visiting Monterey.
Sandra H,
Aug 10, 2025
- Viator
Great weather, knowledgeable team and we saw over 25 whales. Perfect outing while looking for something g to do in Monterey.
Operated by Discovery Whale Watch