San Diego provides the perfect launching point for a whale-watching tour in California. Cruise on the Pacific Ocean in a sturdy boat with a professional crew, looking for gray whales as they migrate along the coast of North America. Dolphins, seals and seabirds are often spotted during this whale-watching tour and the crew provides informative commentary about the marine animals and environment. Bonus: if the crew does not find any whales during your cruise, you receive a complimentary ticket for another trip.

• Morning or afternoon whale-watching cruise, from San Diego
• Look for gray whales in the wild as they migrate along the coast of California
• Learn about the migration from the Arctic to the breeding grounds of Baja California
• Travel with an experienced crew who shares fascinating facts about the Pacific Ocean’s marine life
• Interaction with volunteers from the San Diego Natural History Museum
• Spot other marine animals including sea lions, seals, seabirds and dolphins

What To Expect

Between December and April the gray whale travels approximately 6,000 miles along the North American coast, from the cold waters of the Arctic to the warmer waters of Baja California. There, they give birth to their young and prepare them for the return migration to the north. As the gray whales head to the Arctic, the young calves are often seen swimming alongside their mothers.

See these majestic marine mammals on a morning or afternoon whale-watching tour from San Diego. Make your own way to Navy Pier to board your boat, a sturdy and well-equipped vessel with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Head out on the waters of the Pacific Ocean with your expert crew who provides informative commentary about the marine life that you may encounter, including different species of dolphins, seabirds, sea lions, seals and—if all goes according to plan—gray whales.

Choose from a morning or afternoon tour that works with your schedule. At the end of your tour, your captain returns you to Navy Pier.

Guarantee: Viewing whales in the wild is a breathtaking experience, however mother nature can be unpredictable. If whales are not sighted during your tour, you'll receive a 'whale check' for another complimentary whale-watching or harbor tour.