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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Monterey…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Whale Watching
    5. /Monterey Bay Whale Watching Cruise
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    Monterey Bay Whale Watching Cruise

    Cruise Monterey Bay with narrated wildlife viewing from a heated vessel

    4.7 stars• 3.3K reviews

    Duration

    2.5–3 hrs

    Includes

    Narrated cruise, heated cabin

    Highlights

    Explore Monterey Bay on a narrated cruise aboard the Princess Monterey or Atlantis Monterey. Watch for seasonal whales, dolphins, porpoises, seabirds, seals, sea lions, and sea otters as conditions allow.

    • Listen to narration on Monterey Bay’s marine wildlife and natural history
    • Scan for gray whales from December through April
    • Look for humpback, blue, fin, minke, and killer whales from April through November
    • Relax in a heated cabin with spacious seating around the boat
    • Bring your camera, food, and non-alcoholic drinks

    What's Included

    • Fully narrated whale watching tour
    • Heated cabin
    • Spacious seating
    • Restrooms
    • Onboard snack bar

    Important details

    • Arrive 45 minutes before departure to check in and receive boarding passes
    • Ages 3+ only; pregnant women cannot participate
    • Sign the United States Coast Guard passenger registry before boarding; a parent or guardian must sign for children
    • Requires navigating 14 steps to the loading area and one large step onto the boat; wheelchairs and walkers cannot be accommodated
    • Children ages 3–6 must wear a life vest throughout the cruise
    • Leave outside alcohol behind; smoking and vaping are not allowed onboard
    • Expect possible departure delays of up to 30 minutes; cruises may not depart in severe or unsafe weather
    • VIP upper-deck access costs an additional $20 per person, subject to availability
    • Use a credit card for snack bar purchases

    Cancellation Policy

    Non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled. The activity may be canceled due to severe or unsafe weather. Full refund if the operator cancels before departure due to weather.

    Product ID: UUGYR3

    FAQs

    The experience lasts 2.5–3 hours depending on whale location and sea conditions.

    Sightings are likely but not guaranteed; if no whales or dolphins appear you will receive a voucher for another trip.

    Children must be at least 3 years old and wear a life vest if aged 3–6.

    Meeting details

    96 Fishermans Wharf #1, Monterey, CA 93940

    Experience provided by Princess Monterey Whale Watching

    Related locations

    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 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Adult

    $79.50

    Cannot take pregnant women on our trips

    0

    Child

    $53

    Ages 3 to 11 • Sorry no children under 3 allowed

    0

    Adult: VIP Upper Deck Seating

    $100.70

    Ages 12 and older • Limited availability • Optional access to upper deck for premium viewing

    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

    4.7
    Excellent
    3.3K reviews•Google Maps
    576
    90
    33
    15
    39

    Most guests come back thrilled after spotting abundant marine life, with humpback whales stealing the show alongside dolphins, sea lions, and otters. The crew and naturalists earn consistent praise for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience both educational and exciting. Several reviewers mention the staff's genuine excitement matching their own when whales appear, and they handle seasick passengers with care and discretion. One memorable trip featured a curious humpback hanging around the boat for ten minutes, which the crew explained was incredibly rare behavior. The main complaint worth noting involves the VIP upper deck upgrade. One detailed review warns that the upper deck lacks forward viewing, has limited standing room, and exposes you to cold winds, while the regular lower deck offers comfortable indoor seating, picture windows, and protected outdoor viewing areas. Another guest felt rushed through the tour, with too much transit time and not enough viewing stops. Despite these concerns, the overwhelming sentiment leans positive, with loyal customers returning year after year and many saying it exceeded their expectations. The onboard amenities are basic but functional, with coffee, snacks, and cold-weather gear available for purchase.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    We had an excellent whale watching experience! We were lucky enough to see multiple humpback whales, and the crew did a fantastic job making sure everyone had a chance to spot them. The naturalist on board was knowledgeable and explained the whales’ behavior in an engaging way, which made the trip even more enjoyable. The boat was comfortable, the staff were friendly and organized, and the whole experience felt well run from start to finish. Even on a cloudy Monterey day, being out on the bay was beautiful. If you’re visiting Monterey, I’d definitely recommend this tour. Seeing humpback whales in the wild is something I’ll remember for a long time!

    Photo of Manjushri A (Manju)

    Manjushri A (Manju)

    July 7, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We had an excellent whale watching experience! We were lucky enough to see multiple humpback whales, and the crew did a fantastic job making sure everyone had a chance to spot them. The naturalist on board was knowledgeable and explained the whales’ behavior in an engaging way, which made the trip even more enjoyable. The boat was comfortable, the staff were friendly and organized, and the whole experience felt well run from start to finish. Even on a cloudy Monterey day, being out on the bay was beautiful. If you’re visiting Monterey, I’d definitely recommend this tour. Seeing humpback whales in the wild is something I’ll remember for a long time!

    Photo of Manjushri A (Manju)

    Manjushri A (Manju)

    July 7, 2026

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