Step aboard the legendary 139-foot schooner America and let Next Level Sailing carry you across San Diego’s sparkling waters. Their Coast Guard–inspected crew blends seasoned seamanship with genuine local warmth, guiding you on gr...
Book Next Level Sailing
Review summary
The crew aboard the historic replica yacht America consistently earns praise for their warmth and expertise. Captain, Diane, Ed, Axel, and Jonathan (plus Marie, the ship's dog!) create an engaging atmosphere with storytelling, marine life facts, and genuine enthusiasm for their work. Guests appreciate how attentive the staff is to everyone's comfort, helping with seasickness when needed and providing complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the journey. What really stands out is how genuinely pet-friendly this operation is. Multiple reviewers mention the crew going above and beyond for their dogs, providing beds, water bowls, and plenty of attention. Wildlife sightings vary by day—some guests saw orcas, humpbacks, and blue whales while others encountered massive dolphin pods or no whales at all. Even on days when whales don't appear, most travelers still rave about the sailing experience itself and the beautiful boat. The four-hour tours on the open water feel like authentic adventures, and the company offers return trips if wildlife doesn't cooperate, showing their commitment to customer satisfaction.
What people are saying
I experienced way more than expected for my first time sailing and whale watching!! The whole process was seamless and so well run. All the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating to those needing any motion sickness relief, or just a little snack. They also helped my big pup out after his big adventure. They got him his own bed to relax on, offered a dog bowl for water and lots of pets. The actual whale watching was so unreal!! We saw several Orcas and dolphins for a once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend this crew for a nice few hours out on the ocean!
Louise McEwen
September 21, 2025
I experienced way more than expected for my first time sailing and whale watching!! The whole process was seamless and so well run. All the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating to those needing any motion sickness relief, or just a little snack. They also helped my big pup out after his big adventure. They got him his own bed to relax on, offered a dog bowl for water and lots of pets. The actual whale watching was so unreal!! We saw several Orcas and dolphins for a once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend this crew for a nice few hours out on the ocean!
Louise McEwen
September 21, 2025