Save up to 47% on Whale-Watching Tour Tickets for Adults or Kids
Applicable taxes and fees will be calculated and applied at checkout
Spot majestic whales throughout the year, including Blue whales (May–September), Gray whales (winter), and Humpback, Fin, and Minke whales year-round. Along the way, discover fascinating facts about these incredible marine mammals.
What To Expect
-
2 to 3-Hour Tour ? Spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more!
-
Expert Insights ? Enjoy live commentary from certified marine naturalists!
-
Comfortable Seating ? Board the Coast Guard-certified Privateer with indoor seating and outdoor decks.
San Diego Whale Watch offers an incredible whale-watching adventure along the stunning Pacific coastline. Board the Privateer, a 149-passenger New England-style vessel that provides prime views from both indoor and outdoor decks.
Read More
You'll encounter whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more in their natural habitat. Along the way, you?ll learn fascinating facts about marine life, making this journey both educational and exciting! Stay energized with snacks and beverages available for purchase at the snack bar.
Plan Your Visit
-
Best time to see whales
- December?April: Witness the gray whale migration?the longest of any mammal?as they travel from Alaska to Baja California to mate and give birth.
- May?November: Prime season for blue and fin whales, drawn to San Diego?s nutrient-rich waters.
- Year-Round: Spot fin, humpback, and minke whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and a variety of seabirds.
-
Location & Parking
- The meeting point is 1617 Quivira Rd., San Diego, CA.
- Check-in closes 5 minutes before departure. Please visit the counter upon arrival to confirm your completed electronic waiver, which will be emailed to you separately.
- Two parking options available: free street parking on Quivira Road (recommended) or $5 self-parking at the Hyatt Mission Bay lot (ask for validation). Avoid private lots with towing restrictions. Alternatively, consider using Uber or Lyft.
-
What to bring
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, layers, or a blanket (it?s 10-15?F cooler on the water), a camera, and motion sickness prevention if needed. It is recommended to wear non-slip footwear for the tour.
- Extras: Binocular rentals ($6), Priority Boarding ($10), and Captain's Bridge upgrade for private seating for $199 (ages 10+).
-
Book Your Tour ? Select your preferred date and time upon purchase.
-
Complete Waiver Before Arrival ? It will be sent to you in your confirmation email.
-
Show your voucher upon arrival ? Set sail & enjoy!
??
??
Arrive 45 minutes to 1 hour early for check-in at the small gray booth between the Fish and Chips Shop and H2O Water Sports.
FAQs
What types of whales can I see on the tour?
You can spot gray, blue, fin, humpback, and minke whales, along with dolphins, sea lions, and various seabirds throughout the year.What happens if no whales or dolphins are spotted?
If you don't spot a whale or dolphin during your trip, you can enjoy your next excursion for free.When should I arrive for the tour?
Arrive 45 minutes before departure for check-in; boarding begins 15 minutes before the tour.How It Works
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.