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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.

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

Onboard Comforts

• Spacious outdoor decks for panoramic views
• Indoor seating with large windows
• Snack bar and beverages available for purchase
• Restrooms onboard

Location & Schedule

• Departure Point: 1617 Quivira Rd, Mission Bay, San Diego
  • Our Ticketbooth / Check-in is a grey shed with a blue awning facing the water and located between H2O Jet Ski Rentals and the Fish & Chips restaurant. https://maps.app.goo.gl/1P1Qt8Uea5m8ZpM56
• Check-in Begins: 30–45 minutes before departure
• Upon arrival, kindly proceed to the Ticket Booth for check-in where we will confirm your completion of electronic waiver and hand you a physical boarding pass
• A link to the waiver was sent via email. We can also send it to you in a text message if you let us know in advance. Please reach out to San Diego Whale Watch directly
• 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)

Know Before You Go

• Priority Boarding: upgrade available for $10 per person
• 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

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.