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4 hours
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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
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 many dolphins and whales.
2,192 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Kenneth T,
Aug 5, 2025
- Viator
Fun times .. didnt see much but the captain and crew did tjeir level best . The boat was very nice and weather was good . Water was a little rough
Nora S,
Aug 5, 2025
- Viator
Take a light jacket Patience they appear, follow the birds. The mammals are underneath! The dolphin training is so interesting that the Navy(?) was doing
Beverly L,
Aug 4, 2025
- Viator
The check-in was a little confusing. We received an email stating to meet across the street from Blue Wave Bar & Grill but it was actually a little further down. Other than that, everything was great. My handicapped husband was taken to the America by wheelchair, the yacht is beautiful, the crew are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful in every way. It was a wonderful sailing experience with blankets, water and snacks provided as well as beer, wine and apparel for purchase.
Melinda S,
Aug 4, 2025
- Viator
Very fun experience. The crew members were fantastic, friendly, talkative and helpful! I have recommended this cruise to many people.
Mary V,
Jul 30, 2025
- Viator
Wonderful experience! Saw hundreds of dolphins with their babies. Staff were very friendly and informative.
Operated by San Diego Whale Watching & Charters - Next Level Sailing