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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Things to do in San Diego…/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Whale Watching/
    5. Blue Whale Watching Expedition From San Diego
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    Blue Whale Watching Expedition From San Diego

    Cruise up to 100 miles offshore to search for blue whales from Mission Bay

    4.9 stars• 85 reviews
    From$376/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    4 to 6 Hours

    Ideal For

    Up to 6 people

    Highlights

    Head offshore from Mission Bay, San Diego on a long-range Zodiac expedition timed for blue whale season. Travel up to 100 miles out as you scan for blue whales and other marine mammals.

    • Search up to 100 miles offshore for blue whales and other species
    • Ride a small boat with a maximum of 6 guests per boat
    • Choose a custom departure time based on weather and guest preference
    • Plan for a 4 to 6 hour expedition
    • Spot fin whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other marine mammals

    Things to know

    A minimum of two people is required to run the trip; if you are traveling solo, clarify arrangements with Greetwell before booking. If three or fewer passengers book, the trip duration is limited to 4 hours. The Zodiac cruises at 20+ mph and may encounter rough seas, so it is not recommended for people with back or neck problems.

    Cancellation Policy

    For detailed cancellation policies, please visit our website.

    FAQs

    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.

    Meeting details

    1677 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

    Experience provided by Net Zero Expeditions
    Experience provided by Net Zero Expeditions

    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

    Report an issue

    Reference #MAMB84

    Public Charter

    $376.74

    Single Booking (Max Capacity 6 people)

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    85 reviews•Google Maps

    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.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    Had a great morning whale watching with Net Zero Expeditions out of Mission Bay in San Diego. Terrific crew, well kept 6 guest RIB boat, easy parking and quick access to the Pacific from Quivira Basin are excellent reasons to consider Net Zero. The small boat can cover a lot of miles and what started as a run to the north in fog ended up further offshore with Common Dolphins as well as a Humpback Cow / Calf pair in the sun. We were lucky enough to shut the boat down and have the inquisitive Humpback calf come investigate us as we floated quietly with it under the mother whale's close watch. Amazing day. Highly recommend.

    Photo of Nate Collins

    Nate Collins

    March 20, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Had a great morning whale watching with Net Zero Expeditions out of Mission Bay in San Diego. Terrific crew, well kept 6 guest RIB boat, easy parking and quick access to the Pacific from Quivira Basin are excellent reasons to consider Net Zero. The small boat can cover a lot of miles and what started as a run to the north in fog ended up further offshore with Common Dolphins as well as a Humpback Cow / Calf pair in the sun. We were lucky enough to shut the boat down and have the inquisitive Humpback calf come investigate us as we floated quietly with it under the mother whale's close watch. Amazing day. Highly recommend.

    Photo of Nate Collins

    Nate Collins

    March 20, 2026

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