San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

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From USD 85

4.79
2,097 reviews

Overview

Available languages

English

4 hours

Mobile ticket

Whale watching season is all year long in San Diego! Our team at Next Level Sailing provides the optimal experience with guides so experienced we received a 100 percent success rate during winter whale watching when spotting the King of the Deep.

We are one of the best outdoor activities to do in San Diego. Gray whale watching season spans from mid-December through April. Blue whales and fin whales are seen feeding in San Diego from April - August. Humpback whales and minke whales are seen throughout the year, particularly in the spring, summer, and fall. Aboard our 141-foot sailing yacht, the Yacht America, you will see a plethora of whales firsthand in their natural habitat. In addition to whales, we also see dolphins and sea lions, and an abundance of naval activity. Don't be surprised if you see an F-18 fly overhead!

Bring your own picnic, friends, and family for a wonderful day out on the water

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please call if you have a wheelchair so we can discuss the boarding options as we have had guests with wheelchairs enjoy this experience. We do have 5 steps in order to board the vessel. There is a single step in the deck. Please call Thank you!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

4.5-hr sailing cruise

Bring layers, blankets, and jackets. It can be cold on the water!

Free Parking. Check-in located next to parking lot.

1:15 PM trip: Check in between 12:30 - 12:45

No seasickness' guarantee: Lose your lunch, we get you a new one

2:00 PM Trip: Check in between 1:15 PM - 1:30 PM

Sodas and snacks

11:00 AM trip: Check-in starts at 10:00 AM and ends at 10:30 AM

Whale sighting guarantee: If you don't see a whale, you get to come back for free

9:00 AM trip: Check in between 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop off

Options

San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

Reviews

4.79

2,097 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1834
149
71
24
19
  • Be prepared for motion...

    Samuel M,

    Apr 26, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Be prepared for motion sickness. Dress in layers, it is very cool on the water. If all goes well, the experience is awesome! We had a great time!

  • If your a nature lover you will really enjoy this experience

    Anthony T,

    Apr 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Seals, sea birds, otters, Dolphins and whales all in one 4hr adventure. The captain and crew were awesome. I'd recommend booking directly as there is no company office. You meet across the street from the Marina at the park benches along the bay. If you are very early or late you will not see the flag sign at the meeting spot.

  • A great time

    Cynthia A,

    Apr 25, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    We had an amazing time. Diana's excitement was wonderful. The crew was great and friendly. Marie was a hoot

  • Whales for Sure!

    Andrea C,

    Apr 24, 2025

    - Viator

    5.00

    Very nice tour guide with fun, historical facts about the San Diego Bay area. We saw lots of dolphins, sea lions, and whales!

  • Unfulfilled wish: saw no dolphins or whales.

    Rosalia S,

    Apr 20, 2025

    - Viator

    4.00

    Although we didn't see any whales or dolphins, the sailing experience was great. The captain and his crew were pleasant to talk to.