Available languages
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
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!
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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
If you arrive after check in ends, you will miss the boat.
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
We sail past North Island Naval Air Station, US Navy Base Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, Point Loma Lighthouse to see sea lions, dolphins and whales.
2,216 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Terry R,
Sep 13, 2025
- Viator
Great way to spend the day on the ocean. The crew was amazing. The ship was beautiful. We were able to see multiple forms of wildlife to include a Blue Whale
Larry R,
Sep 1, 2025
- Viator
The crew was very knowledgeable and amazing! Everything you need to know and prepare yourself for the tour was seamless.
Marlo H,
Aug 30, 2025
- Viator
Really great excursion. We saw tons and tons of dolphins but no whales. It was pretty warm and not much sun cover so 4 hours was a bit long. I think 3 hours would be perfect for this activity. But the staff was excellent and very knowledgeable
Palma A,
Aug 28, 2025
- Viator
Wooden 140ft sailboat. Snacks and drinks available. 4 hour cruise. Attentive crew focused on safety.
Sheryl A,
Aug 25, 2025
- Viator
Great job! Very knowledgeable and informative. I would definitely recommend them. We saw a pod of dolphins and a whale.
Operated by San Diego Whale Watching & Charters - Next Level Sailing