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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Monterey, CA/
    3. Animal Encounters/
    4. Whale Watching/
    5. 3 Hour Afternoon Whale Watch
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    3 Hour Afternoon Whale Watch

    Spot whales and dolphins in Monterey Bay on a 2.5–3 hour afternoon cruise

    From$86/ person

    Duration

    2.5 - 3 Hours

    Highlights

    Head out for a 2.5–3 hour afternoon whale watch in Monterey Bay. Travel within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary as the crew helps you find and photograph whales and dolphins.

    • Explore Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
    • Search for whales and dolphins year-round
    • Learn spotting and photography tips from crew
    • Travel to the best wildlife locations
    • Depart at 1:30 PM daily
    • Prepare for windier seas in the afternoon

    Things to know

    Check in 45 minutes before departure and complete the required Coast Guard waiver. No outside alcohol; beer and wine sold on board for ages 21+. Trips are weather permitting and typically require at least 10 passengers to depart; afternoon seas can be rougher.

    Cancellation policy

    Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Late cancellations are nonrefundable. Trips may be canceled for safety, weather, or undersubscription; if canceled by the operator you may reschedule or receive a refund. A minimum of 10 passengers is typically required for departure.

    Meeting location

    66 Fishermans Wharf, Monterey

    Experience provided by Discovery Whale Watch
    Experience provided by Discovery Whale Watch

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #9A6RN3

    Adult

    $86.06

    Ages 13 and older

    0

    Child

    $74.59

    Ages 4 to 12

    0

    Infant

    $28.69

    Ages 3 and younger

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

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    4.9 stars• 1.9K reviews

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    1.9K reviews•Google Maps

    With an impressive track record and enthusiastic reviews, this whale watching operation delivers memorable marine wildlife encounters in Monterey Bay. The crew, including standout guides like Isaiah and Alfredo, consistently earns praise for their marine biology expertise and friendly, attentive service. Tours typically last four hours, and guests regularly report seeing 10+ humpback whales along with orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and otters. The smaller boats create a more intimate, quieter experience where you can really feel the ride, and complimentary coffee and hot chocolate help ward off the chill. One piece of advice comes up repeatedly: take Dramamine before boarding, even if you don't usually get seasick. The four-hour tours venture into open waters with real ocean swells, and several reviewers noted that those who skipped the medication regretted it. Beyond that warning, it's all positive vibes. The captains go the extra mile, lingering past scheduled times when whales breach, and guides often share their own photos for free. Easy parking and check-in, clean boats, and crew who genuinely love what they do make this a standout choice for experiencing Monterey Bay's incredible marine life.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    It was a great experience, going out there with Discovery. They managed to find Orcas, dolphins and Humpbacks, and it was really exciting. Very nice, knowledgeable and cooperative staff. Thank you Alfredo!!! The ride itself was also a lot of fun. There were nice waves and the kids had a lot of fun. They use smaller boats I think, and for us it was better - quieter and you could feel the ride. They also have complementary coffee and hot chocolate onboard, which was great at first when it got cold. Just make dure you dress in layers.

    Photo of Shachar Ben Barak

    Shachar Ben Barak

    October 6, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    It was a great experience, going out there with Discovery. They managed to find Orcas, dolphins and Humpbacks, and it was really exciting. Very nice, knowledgeable and cooperative staff. Thank you Alfredo!!! The ride itself was also a lot of fun. There were nice waves and the kids had a lot of fun. They use smaller boats I think, and for us it was better - quieter and you could feel the ride. They also have complementary coffee and hot chocolate onboard, which was great at first when it got cold. Just make dure you dress in layers.

    Photo of Shachar Ben Barak

    Shachar Ben Barak

    October 6, 2025

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