Summer Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise in San Diego

5.0

About this experience

Get up close and personal with California's majestic whales and dolphins during this bucket list-worthy adventure from San Diego!

No Expiration
Dates
Flexible
Booking
Free
Exchanges
Instant
Delivery

We went whale watching and saw between 10-12 blue whales! It was a beautiful day and the boat’s captain and crew did a wonderful job.

Reviewed By:Cheree PJuly 2024

I received a voucher for the Whale and Dolphin Cruise as a present from friends. Regardless of the cloudy/rainy weather on the day, myself, husband and 3 year old had a great experience from lining up at the harbour and chatting with the volunteers from the Museum of Natural History, through the cruise where we saw 2 groups of very active dolphins to the end of the experience, where we even received a voucher to make up for the fact that we did not see whales. The crew was knowledgeable and fun, we got some food at our table, and we had plenty of time for pictures and videos with the dolphins. It was a pity that we could not see whales, and, although this is not under anyone's control, each one of us got a gift voucher to spend on a similar trip or a tour of the San Diego bay. I would recommend this little adventure to anyone.

Reviewed By:Laura FSeptember 2023

What's Included

4-hour cruise led by an expert captain and naturalist
Summer season only (June - September)
Spot a variety of whale species plus dolphins, sea lions, and more
Whale guarantee, or you'll receive a pass for a future cruise
Enjoy live narration and details about the aquatic life and landmarks you pass!

What happens on the day

Get ready to spot some of San Diego's most incredible wildlife!

Beginning along the shores of San Diego Bay, you'll join an expert captain aboard a comfortable yacht equipped with stabilizers that greatly reduce the yacht's motion. Plus, with plenty of viewing areas to choose from, you won't miss any of the whale-spotting action.

During the summer months, these waters are home to massive Blue whales, Minke whales, Fin whales, dolphins, sea lions, marine birds, and more. No matter what you see, an expert naturalist from the San Diego Natural History Museum will share fascinating facts about the whales and the marine environment around you. Plus, you'll also enjoy beautiful views of the San Diego skyline and iconic landmarks from the water.

And the best part? If you don't spot any whales, you'll receive a Whale Check for a return whale-watching or harbor cruise at no extra cost.

Location

San Diego, CA

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!

June - September:
Friday - Monday: 9:00 AM

Important Details

Essential Information

Children 3 and under are complimentary
Full snack bar with hot and cold items available for purchase
Coast Guard regulations require valid photo ID to board
If a whale is not sighted on your cruise, you will receive a pass good for another Whale Watching or Harbor Cruise

Duration

This experience lasts approximately 4 hours.

Experience Provider Info

Complete information for your Experience Provider, including contact information, will be included on your booking confirmation email once you or your gift recipient have scheduled the experience. Our Product Management team handpicks top-rated experience providers, removing the guesswork for you and ensuring your peace of mind.

Maximum Participants

This experience can accommodate groups of all sizes.

Spectators

This experience is for booked participants only.

Weather Dependent

This experience is weather dependent.

What to Wear

Wear casual, comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather. A hat, light sweater or jacket, and sunglasses are recommended.

FAQs

Are there any age restrictions?

No, there is no age limit. Children 3 and under sail for free.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, depending on which pier the cruise departs from. Please let Virgin Experience Gifts know of any special needs at the time of booking so that accommodations can be made.

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

52 reviews