Save up to 47% on Whale Watching and Dolphin Tour Tickets for Adults or Kids

San Diego Whale Watch
4.7
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Kristian
4 days ago
Definitely take a jacket. It was warm while we were waiting in line, but once the boat gets moving and the wind picks up it gets chilly. I also recommend taking Dramamine just to be safe and to enjoy your entire 3 hour boat ride (you don't want to miss out!)

Witness whales in every season. From gray whales in winter to blue whales in summer — plus humpback, fin, and minke all year — enjoy expert narration and the thrill of seeing the ocean’s most majestic animals.

  • Wave The Experience

    • Set out on a 2–3 hour whale watching and dolphin cruise directly from Mission Bay, just minutes from the Pacific Ocean. With the quickest route to open water in San Diego, you’ll maximize time spotting wildlife instead of traveling.

    Guided by expert naturalists and a skilled captain, you’ll learn fascinating facts about whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds while experiencing the thrill of ocean exploration. Every trip is unique — no two days on the Pacific are the same.

  • Wave What You'll See
    • Whales year-round
      • Gray whales (Dec–Apr migration)
      • Blue & fin whales (May–Sept feeding season)
      • Humpback, minke, and fin whales spotted throughout the year
    • Dolphins: Common, bottlenose, and Pacific white-sided (Dec–April)
    • Other wildlife: Sea lions, seals, and coastal seabirds
  • Wave Onboard Comforts
    • Spacious outdoor decks for panoramic views
    • Indoor seating with large windows
    • Snack bar and beverages available for purchase
    • Restrooms onboard
  • Wave Location & Schedule
    • Departure Point: 1617 Quivira Rd, Mission Bay, San Diego
    • Check-in: 30–45 minutes before departure
    • Boarding: Begins 15–30 minutes before departure
    • Check-In Closes: 5 minutes before departure
      • We cannot hold the boat for tardy parties, however, we can rebook to a later time or date if applicable
      • A $2.50 rebooking fee per person applies
    • Parking: Free street parking on Quivira Road (we recommend you park on the street)
  • Wave Know Before You Go
    • Dress in layers; the ocean is typically 10–15°F cooler
    • Non-slip shoes recommended
    • Motion-sickness precautions suggested
    • Tours depart rain or shine but may be rescheduled for unsafe sea conditions
    • Wildlife Guarantee: If no whales or dolphins are sighted, you’ll receive a Re Ride pass
    • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Wave Why Choose San Diego Whale Watch

    • With Mission Bay’s fastest access to the Pacific, expert naturalists onboard, and thousands of satisfied guests, San Diego Whale Watch is the go-to choice for unforgettable marine adventures. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, you’ll discover new wildlife, new stories, and new memories every time.

    About San Diego Whale Watch

    San Diego Whale Watch departs from scenic Mission Bay with the fastest route to the open Pacific, giving guests more time to spot wildlife and less time in transit. Each cruise lasts 2–3 hours depending on the time of year and is guided by knowledgeable marine naturalists who share insights while helping guests spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds.

    The Privateer, a 149-passenger, Coast Guard-certified vessel, offers both indoor seating and open-air decks for panoramic views. Its low profile keeps guests close to the waterline, perfect for up-close encounters and photo opportunities.

    Morning, afternoon, and sunset departures are available, each offering unique opportunities to enjoy breathtaking ocean views while searching for whales and dolphins.

    Need To Know Info

    Promotional value expires Dec 31, 2025.

  • Redemption & Booking: Book upon purchase.

  • Additional Info: $3.50 fuel surcharge will be charged at time of redemption.

  • Restrictions: Limit 30 per person. May be repurchased every 30 days.

    • All Sales Final.

  • Cancellation Policy: Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 24 hours’ notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation before departure, due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price. Trips are subject to cancellation due to under subscription or unforeseen weather conditions. If a trip returns early due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will be offered a free rebooking to another day.  All bookings are subject to a $2.50/ticket rebooking fee if a rebooking is requested over the phone, email, or in person and trip protection has not been purchased. 

    • Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services. Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts. Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and Savings

    About San Diego Whale Watch

    San Diego Whale Watch sets sail along the scenic Pacific coastline in search of the area's most beautiful and splash-happy underwater residents. Experienced marine naturalist lends their knowledge and keen eyes to each three-hour tour, pointing out whales and dolphins as they surface alongside the hull of the veteran Coast Guard-certified vessel the Privateer. The spacious and clean New England-style boat seats 149 passengers and floats low in the water to allow its passengers up-close views of the amazing marine wildlife from indoor and outdoor decks and seating areas. Daytime tours embark as early as 9:30 am to catch the whales as they commute to work.

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