Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
View many varieties of whales which include the giant blue whale which is over 90 feet in length, humpback whales, gray whales, finback whales whales, several types of dolphin, seals, and other neat marine life. Just outside of Newport Bay is the beginning of one of the largest marine protected areas in southern California created to protect this rich ecosystem for future generations. The protected marine sanctuary covers over 15 miles and provides a haven for all marine creatures including whales and dolphin. With such amazing habitat for mammals so close to Newport Bay, whale watching cruises of 2-2.5 hours is all that is needed for viewing these giants. Newport Landing offers multiple whale watching cruises daily and with a 96% success rate viewing whales and/or dolphins, almost every trip will have viewing opportunities.
*New is a brand new double decker whale watching catamaran with bow seating, upper and lower deck 360 views, and much more.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
A maximum of 20 people per booking
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Select from several whale watching cruise times daily and year-round. Our whale watching & dolphin cruises view giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales, humpback whales, minke whales, several species of dolphin and more.
What‘s Included
Landing and facility fees
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Food and drinks
Options
2:30pm Departure
Tour departs at 2:30pm
Mid Day Departures
Mid Day Departure: Tour departs at 1:00pm or 12pm
12pm Departure
12:00pm Departure: Tour departs at 12:00pm
9am Departure
Tour departs at 9am
Reviews
216 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
No sightings
Stina562024,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00Was uneventful. We didn’t see any whales or dolphins.
Mystery of Whales
jinny,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a new experience. My daughter was so happy. Gazing upon the vast ocean—and the whales and their families swimming together within it, exuding a vibrant vitality—made me reflect upon the nature of human existence.
Worth it - Chill few hours on boat
Novert303,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience and super chill. Not over crowded and there is indoor space as well as outdoor sitting areas. Bar and snacks with snacks / drinks available for purchase. Bathrooms were clean. Crew were cool. We were able to see 5 grey Whales. Was just over 2 hours. Worth it
I have done this same...
Leann W,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I have done this same tour several times, although we have never been lucky enough to see whales we have always seen lots of dolphins! The tour is always enjoyable.
Sunny and Fun
97karlau,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We enjoyed the adventure, and the crew was most appreciated. We saw both dolphins and a whale with a calf.
Even though it was foggy...
Donnita V,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Even though it was foggy and we couldn’t find anything, it was a pleasant day in the water. Would do this again if we’re ever back in this area
A Great Family Trip to California
wisconsin46,Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved Sherman Library Gardens and Newport Beaches proximity to Huntington Beach for the little kids!! There is a great playground on the beach there! The choices of food in the area are amazing! We didn’t want to rent a car because of the traffic so we Ubered everywhere! It was so easy! Also we flew into John Wayne Airport. It was a breeze compared to LAX!
newport whale watch
Karen G,Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00relaxing boat ride out to the ocean. it’s a gamble to see a whale sometimes. we were lucky to see the common dolphins in a large pods. swimming and jumping .
Fun & relaxing. We saw...
Robert S,Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fun & relaxing. We saw sea lions, dolphins, pelicans and more. The crew was very accommodating and informative. We will definitely go on this excursion again in future trips.
Great for the family
Eren B,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was so much fun, the weather was beautiful. We got to see a humpback whale, a pod of dolphins, sea lions . The ride was great and our Captain Hunter and crew were friendly and very informative. We will be back again.
From US$36.00
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Related Experiences
Operated by Newport Landing Whale Watching