Whale Watching Cruise in San Diego
About this experience
Take San Diego sightseeing to new heights on the Whale Watching Cruise, offering much more than just the city's famed landmarks, and the chance for an unforgettable H2O adventure!
No Expiration
DatesFlexible
BookingFree
ExchangesInstant
Delivery
It was an amazing experience. The crew was very knowledgeable and friendly! Had a great time
What's Included
- Benefit from 30+ years of experience for top-notch whale watching in San Diego
- Spot wildlife like whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more across the Pacific waters
- Enjoy narration from the Captain and a Natural History Museum naturalist
- Share the adventure with family or friends
What happens on the day
Embark on a 3.5-hour San Diego Whale Watching Cruise from mid-December to mid-April, offering a chance to see gray whales and other marine life during their migration. As you cruise the Big Bay, a crew of experts, including a naturalist from the San Diego Natural History Museum, will provide fascinating insights into the wildlife and marine environment. Watch for breaching whales, playful dolphins, sea lions, and diving seabirds as you sail through the pristine waters.
In addition to whale sightings, the cruise offers stunning views of San Diego’s skyline and landmarks, providing a unique perspective of the city. The boat features comfortable indoor seating, outdoor observation decks, a full bar, and even a souvenir shop. And if no whales are spotted, you'll receive a "Whale Check" to return for a future cruise at no extra cost.
This unforgettable experience combines wildlife, sightseeing, and relaxation, making it a must-do for visitors and locals alike.
Location
Locations shown shouldn't be used for route planning
Availability
When Do I Choose A Date?
Either yourself or the lucky recipient can make a booking and select dates once you are in receipt of the voucher. You’ll register the voucher, follow the booking instructions, and your experience with us begins!
Mid-December - Mid-April:
Friday - Monday: 9:30 AM, 1:30 PM
*Rates do not apply for specialty cruises and/or holidays
Important Details
Essential Information
- Coast Guard regulations require all participants over the age of 18 to have a valid photo ID to board
- Participants under the age of 18 must have parent/guardian supervision
- You may not bring food or drink on board
- There are food and beverages available on board for purchase
- If a whale is not sighted on your cruise, you will receive a pass good for another Whale Watching or Harbor Cruise
Duration
Experience Provider Info
Maximum Participants
Spectators
Weather Dependent
What to Wear
FAQs
Will I get seasick?
The yacht has stabilizers that greatly reduce its motion. However, if you tend to have trouble with motion sickness, you may experience seasickness. Bio bands are sold both at the ticket booth and on board for $11. Medicine is not available for purchase.
What if I don't see any whales?
If you do not see any whales, you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise or 1-2 hour narrated bay cruise.
Is smoking allowed?
How far out will the boat cruise?
Returns, Exchanges & Cancellations
Returns
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be returned hassle-free within 14 days. All refunds will be made to the original purchaser.
Exchanges
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be exchanged for anything else in our marketplace at any time. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs more, you'll simply have to pay the difference. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs less, you'll have a credit towards your next booking with Virgin Gifts.
Cancellation Policy
Once you have received a booking confirmation, all bookings are final. No cancellations or rescheduling requests will be allowed. Failure to appear on your booked date or to cancel prior to your booked date will result in the loss of the value of your experience. In the event that your tour is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be able to reschedule directly with the experience provider.
Customer Reviews
It was an amazing experience. The crew was very knowledgeable and friendly! Had a great time
We sighted 7-8 grey whales on a beautiful calm January morning. Even if we hadn’t -it was a beautiful view of the city and coast narrated by knowledgeable staff and augmented by assistance from the San Diego Natural History museum’s volunteer ‘Whalers’. A Great day! Highly recommend.
Response from Virgin Gifts
Hi there Helene! We are thrilled that the San Diego Whale Watching Cruise was a splash hit! Sighting that many whales is truly magnificent! We are overjoyed to hear that the whales only added to an already beautiful day on the water. We can't wait to get you out on another wonderful experience! Best, Sophia
The whale watching was awesome!! We saw, 2 HUGE pods of common dolphins and they came right up alongside of the boat. Then we saw a gray whale who we were also able to get very close to. Then, we finished off our adventure with a humpback sighting!! No breaching, but still so cool! Please know it's a good Idea to plan for being out to sea. We took motion sickness medicine and were fine, but man, there were a lot of sick people...
Response from Virgin Gifts
Hi Gina, WOW! Sounds like an absolute DREAM! We totally agree with you - seasickness is no fun! What IS fun - dolphin and humpback sightings! Thank you so much for sharing. Cheers, Kasia
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