Whale Watching Tour From Monterey
Overview
Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Embark on a 4-hour whale watching tour. All trips are narrated by a naturalist or marine biologist guide, who will also spend one on one time with guests while on deck. Professional photographers are often sent to capture the spectacular sights seen from on board and are available to offer tips for your own photography.
Additional Info
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
Warm layers are recommended
Sun protection, camera, binoculars, water, and snacks are recommended
If prone to motionsickness, please take precautionary measures and we also sell motion sickness remedies in the shop
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Meet at Fisherman's Wharf to begin your whale watching experience at 9am. Monterey Bay is considered to be a premier destination for whale watching year round as these animals are often spotted there. Your whale watching trip will be narrated by a marine biologist or naturalist, who will provide you educational and interesting information about marine wildlife. In addition to teaching you about the wildlife, your marine biologists and naturalists will provide information about the natural history of the local area and talk about conservation. While out on the ocean your marine biologists and naturalists will also be collecting sighting data for scientific research. During your trip the crew will show you how to spot whales and dolphins as well as give you advice on how to best capture photos and videos of the wildlife. You will return back to the original departure point between 12:30pm and 1pm.
What‘s Included
Time listed is when boat LEAVES! Check-in 30-45 minutes ahead
Marine Biologist/Naturalist & Deckhand
Coffee and/or Tea
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks (Chips, Candy, Soda, and Water)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
3 Hour Whale Watching Tour
Naturalist Guide
Duration: 3 hours
Complimentary Hot Beverages
Boat Ride
4-Hour Whale Watching Tour
Naturalist Guide
Duration: 4 hours
Complimentary Hot Beverages
Boat Ride
Sunset Whale Watch Tour
Naturalist Guide
Duration: 3 hours
Boat Ride
Reviews
1,054 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience!
Adventure799284,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a great adventure. We were out on the water for about 4 hours. Staff was super attentive and friendly. I would recommend this trip!
Very friendly and...
Aaron H,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very friendly and knowledgeable crew. Highly entertaining. They keep a very clean ship that has a bathroom on board. This company also sells Dramamine at their shop that can be taken before you get on board. Their shop also sells blankets that are designed to keep you dry in case the weather isn’t great. We would definitely do it again!
Unforgettable Experience - We Saw Orcas!
K7035MEpaolam,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an absolutely fantastic time on our whale watching trip yesterday! The highlight was definitely seeing killer whales in the wild—it was a breathtaking sight that we'll never forget. A huge thank you to the entire crew. Everyone was so amazing and went above and beyond to make sure the experience was special for us. Their knowledge and enthusiasm really made the trip. If you are looking for an unforgettable adventure, I cannot recommend this team enough!
Best tour ever!
Matthias W,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing! Captain JJ is a wizard at finding the right place to spot whales. We saw several humpbacks and thousands of dolphins. Maddie was doing the play by play and her energy is unmatched. Kahlea (sp?) was also super energetic and knowledgeable. This is a tour we will remember forever!
Humpbacks!
Hugh O,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a best experience! The humpbacks had just arrived in Monterey Bay. We must have seen at least 10. 5 continuously passed beneath the bot to surface and splash close by. The crew were excellent with information.
Jack and Jill
nicholef959,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was a once in lifetime experience
Great time
Kelli S,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We saw humpbacks several times. It was kind of early in season (I believe that’s what they said) so they weren’t really active, just swimming along and blowing their spouts. Got a few tail shows but nothing crazy. Did have gray whale siting as well but only 1-2 times. Really enjoyed seeing the Risso dolphins. There were about 10 of them playing around. We also saw lots of sea lions and otters so that was fun too. The trip was rough and several people got sick but the crew was very helpful to them. My husband and I had no problems. Maddi, the on board naturalist was soooo good. She knows her stuff. She had lots of fun facts about all the wildlife, the ocean and the boaters. We really enjoyed our trip and would highly recommend it. If you’re prone to seasickness take something before!
Great trip!
Steve123765,Mar 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great trip. Really knowledgeable and informative crew. Saw 4 humpback whales
You have to go it is so beautiful and this crew is the best.
Passenger22093031721,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The staff was informing and friendly. The boat was clean and organized.
Great Whale Encounter
stuontour14,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an excellent experience. The boat was modern and the crew professional. The on board briefings on marine life, especially whales, was excellent and filled the time between stops. The trip out was bumpy and some guests were seasick so ensure if you do suffer then take appropriate medication. We were fortunate and encountered a Sperm Whale, which was excellent. Other species such as Albatross and dolphins were also seen. In conclusion, a first class experience and a great encounter with a magnificent Whale.
From US$75.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Discovery Whale Watch