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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.
2,148 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Roopa D,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
Friendly team, beautiful sailboat & a wonderful family experiance. Lots of Dolphin spotting. Carry your sea sickness meds
Leslie A,
Jun 18, 2025
- Viator
Enjoyed the day out to sea! The ship was fantastic and so was the crew! Saw a fantastic pod of dolphins!
Tim C,
Jun 18, 2025
- Viator
Great staff, great ship, great day!! Beautiful way to be out on the water. Had a wonderful viewing of dolphins
Maged A,
Jun 17, 2025
- Viator
Get your lunch, poor snaks. Not necessary to see the whale Nice to have the sail inside the ocean and see sea lion swimming
Stephen P,
Jun 15, 2025
- Viator
The ship was beautiful and the staff were very professional and knowledgeable. The trip was calm and very enjoyable.
Operated by San Diego Whale Watching & Charters - Next Level Sailing