Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
The El Cat, built right here in Moss Landing, is a fully electric, 32 passenger, Coast Guard-certified vessel. This is a custom 37’ catamaran built and designed especially for the waters of our very own Elkhorn Slough.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Join us on a one-of-a-kind, electric-powered catamaran ride for a wildlife tour along one of California's largest tidal waterways. Enjoy a narrated cruise along the Elkhorn Slough, a vibrant and lively wetland located on Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Monterey in Moss Landing. Scan for otters, sea lions, birds and beyond during a cruise through these peaceful waters.
What‘s Included
Tour Guide
Options
Elkhorn Slough Wildlife Tour
Fully Electric Catamaran
Reviews
437 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great trip
Gail Z,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Loved by the whole family. Great captain. Highly recommend. Saw a ton of otters and seals and the captain was very knowledgeable and entertaining.
Lots of Sea Otters!
Diane M,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great time traveling along the water learning about the creatures that live there: otters, seals, sea birds, and plants. Our guide was very knowledgeable and answered questions readily from the group on the boat. We watched the wildlife living their lives along the way, saw lots of otters especially so if sea otters are your passion definitely book a tour.
A great day on the water!!!
Ollie H,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a wonderful smooth water trip. We saw an assortment of water fowl, otters. Harbor seals and sea lions. Joey and Elaine were our Pilots and Guides. It was wonderful. Bring a jacket.
Slough love.
John G,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The 1- 1/2 hour trip was exceptional. Who knew about slough?? Aaron does! His Naturalist, paleontologist, ecology knowledge of all things Moss Landing, Salinas River, Monterey Bay, Flora, fauna & especially bird life was astonishing. He even knows about the Western Flyer, John Steinbeck & Ed Rickett’s marine lab boat! He’s one of the crew!! It was lovely. I recommend this with 5 stars.
Must see all the otters!
Holly C,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a special place! Aaron was a fantastic guide and we saw SO much wildlife!! Do not miss this area.
Luxury viewing of the Slough
gmardie,Mar 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Awesome views of the birds, otters, seals and sea lions of the Slough! Boat is supremely comfy and quiet. All ages can enjoy the quiet smooth ride and love about to get good views. Binocular experience recommended but not necessary. Great for teens, parents, grandparents, and birders in your family!
Must go!
Arlene R,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a relaxing informative beautiful trip. The guides are well informed . It is a great trio for picture taking, too!. There is a good cafe at the dock. Do enjoy that as well!
Amazing Experience!
Dianne B,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Tour was fantastic! The guides were knowledgeable about the wildlife: birds, sea lions, otters etc. Very comfortable ride.
Great tour!
Kathleen W,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Sophie and Capt. Brian were fabulous and knowledgable. We learned new facts about wildlife and the area! We are glad we went!
Magical Experience
Sherry C,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We loved this experience. The boat is calm and not crowded. There is freedom of movement on the boat. The crew are kind and so knowledgeable. We got up close to otters and other wildlife. This is truly a unique and valuable experience. Don’t miss it!
From US$45.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Monterey Bay Eco Tours