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