For more than 40 years Rudee Tours has been the local favorite way to “see the sea” in Virginia Beach. Seasoned captains helm the area’s largest and most advanced fleet, complete with multi-level decks, climate-controlled cabins, ...
Rudee Tours operates a variety of marine excursions in Virginia Beach, from whale watching and dolphin cruises to deep-sea fishing trips. When conditions align, guests report incredible wildlife encounters—humpback whales circling the boat, dolphins putting on shows, and knowledgeable crews who respect marine life and follow proper guidelines. The fishing charters consistently earn praise for helpful mates and good catches. Many visitors become repeat customers, enjoying multiple tour types throughout different seasons. That said, wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, particularly for whale watching. While the company offers a "guarantee" (providing vouchers for future trips if you don't see whales), this doesn't help visitors from out of town who can't return. Rough water conditions sometimes lead to seasickness issues, and there's a notable pattern of last-minute cancellations that frustrate travelers who've made special plans or driven considerable distances. The crew handles marine life beautifully when nature cooperates, but communication around scheduling changes could be stronger. If you're flexible with timing and live locally, you'll likely have better luck experiencing the memorable encounters many guests rave about.
What an amazing trip! Even though we did not see a whale, the birds were AWESOME! The people were knowledgeable! The boat was clean & well stocked! If going when it is cool, take extra layers!!
Liz Jok
January 10, 2026
What an amazing trip! Even though we did not see a whale, the birds were AWESOME! The people were knowledgeable! The boat was clean & well stocked! If going when it is cool, take extra layers!!
Liz Jok
January 10, 2026