San Diego: Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

4.4 (311 reviews)

A whale's tail fluke rising from a blue sea

San Diego: Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

Before you book

2 to 2.5 hours from December to February, 2.5 to 3 hours from March to November, from Mission Bay. Check in 45 minutes before departure to get your boarding pass, and bring a signed waiver.
Parking is free on Quivira Road only. Mission Bay gets very busy in summer and on weekends and holidays, so allow extra time for traffic and parking.
Snacks, soda, coffee and tea are sold on board, and alcohol after 3 miles out; gratuities are optional. If no whales or dolphins are seen, you get a free return pass.
Not suitable for wheelchair users or people prone to seasickness. Tours run rain or shine but may be canceled or rescheduled in poor sea conditions. No drones, glass or pets (assistance dogs allowed).
Cancel free of charge up to 24 hours ahead; you can reserve now and pay later.

About This Experience

San Diego Whale Watch's family-run cruise from Quivira Road in Mission Bay, about 10 minutes from the open Pacific: whales by season, dolphins, sea lions and seabirds, with a galley and bar on board.

Highlights

Experience thrilling year-round whale and dolphin watching
Sail from Mission Bay—shortest trip to the ocean means more time whale watching
Learn fascinating facts with narration from expert guides and naturalists
Enjoy the personalized touch of a family-owned and operated business
Relax with indoor and outdoor seating plus a full galley and bar onboard

What's Included

✓ Whale watching cruise
✓ Live commentary
✓ Free parking

Not Included

Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase after 3 miles)
Soda/Pop (Available for purchase)
Snacks (Available for purchase)
Coffee and/or Tea (Available for purchase)
Gratuities (optional)
Parking Fees (Free Parking on Quivira Road only)

Good to Know

Tours operate rain or shine
Trips may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor sea conditions for safety
Check in 45 minutes prior to departure to complete the process and receive your boarding pass
During summer months, weekends, and holidays, Mission Bay can be very busy — please allow extra time for traffic and parking
Free parking is available on Quivira Road
Restrooms are available onboard
Food and beverages are available for purchase from the galley and bar
Wildlife sightings vary — if no whales or dolphins are seen, you’ll receive a free return pass