Search San Diego’s offshore waters for blue whales in peak season
4 to 6 hours
Up to 6 people
Blue whale search, Zodiac cruise
Head up to 100 miles offshore from San Diego to search for blue whales during the seasonal viewing period. Scan open waters aboard a Zodiac boat for other marine mammals along the way.
For detailed cancellation policies, please visit our website.
Product ID: MAMB84
No. The Zodiac cruises at 20+ mph and you may encounter unexpected rough seas, so it is not recommended for people with back or neck problems.
Bring a reusable water bottle plus lunch and/or snacks. Pack warm layers such as a sweater and a rain jacket, and bring biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
If you are prone to seasickness, take seasickness medicine the night before your expedition and another dose 30 minutes before the trip.
Hyatt Marina, 1441 Quivira Road, San Diego, CA 92109
This crew clearly lives and breathes ocean conservation and marine wildlife. Manolo stands out across reviews for his exceptional spotting abilities and genuine passion, while captains like Emily, Scott, and Jack get praised for their smooth handling of the boat. Rocky, the marine biologist onboard, brings serious expertise that guests appreciate, and the safety divers demonstrate real professionalism during shark encounters. The team's knowledge shines through whether you're swimming with makos, watching dolphins, or spotting the occasional blue whale or great white from the boat. The marine life encounters are genuinely impressive. Guests report seeing everything from mako sharks and sunfish to multiple whale species, dolphins, and sea bass. The crew works hard to find wildlife and gets you surprisingly close to the action. People with anxiety about open water specifically mention feeling comfortable and safe. A couple of reviews note rough ocean conditions and communication hiccups, but the overwhelming majority describe professional, friendly service and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that justify the trip from out of town or even flying in specifically for these expeditions.
My family took a 3-hour zodiac adventure with Jack yesterday. Mid-way through the trip we came across what appeared to be 200-300 dolphin - playing, hunting, females teaching young ones. Jack carefully cruised with the herd as we leaned over the front of the zodiac to watch them cruise with the boat. It made for a spectacular afternoon trip!
Joe Berry
August 28, 2026
My family took a 3-hour zodiac adventure with Jack yesterday. Mid-way through the trip we came across what appeared to be 200-300 dolphin - playing, hunting, females teaching young ones. Jack carefully cruised with the herd as we leaned over the front of the zodiac to watch them cruise with the boat. It made for a spectacular afternoon trip!
Joe Berry
August 28, 2026
Spot whales and dolphins from a nimble Zodiac with just six guests for intimate wildlife encounters.
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