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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Monterey…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Whale Watching
    5. /See Whales & Dolphins with Expert Naturalists
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    See Whales & Dolphins with Expert Naturalists

    Spot whales and dolphins with expert naturalists on a 4-hour cruise in Monterey Bay.

    4.9 stars• 2.2K reviews

    Duration

    3.5–4 hrs

    Includes

    Naturalist guide, Hot drinks

    Highlights

    Discover the rich marine life of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary on a 3.5 – 4-hour whale watching cruise. Learn from knowledgeable crew as you scan the waves for whales, dolphins and other wildlife.

    • Travel through the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
    • Listen to live commentary from naturalists and deckhands
    • Spot humpbacks, blue whales, dolphins and seabirds
    • Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and hot chocolate on board
    • Benefit from morning departures for typically calmer seas

    What's Included

    • Complimentary coffee, tea and hot chocolate
    • Naturalist narration and crew assistance

    Things to know

    Pregnant women are not permitted on this trip. Wheelchairs, strollers and walkers cannot be accommodated. Trips are weather dependent and may be canceled if conditions are unsafe.

    Cancellation Policy

    Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Trips may be canceled by the operator at any time for safety, weather or insufficient bookings. Groups of five or more are subject to a 15% rebooking fee. If no whales are sighted you will receive a raincheck for a future tour.

    Product ID: EN52QY

    FAQs

    Check in 45 minutes before departure. The time listed is when the boat leaves.

    Yes. The US Coast Guard requires every passenger to complete an electronic waiver. Adults complete waivers for minors.

    You may bring food and non-alcoholic beverages (a small cooler is allowed). Do not bring your own alcoholic beverages; beer and wine are sold on board to guests age 21+.

    Meeting details

    Discovery Whale Watch Building, 66 Fishermans Wharf, Monterey

    Experience provided by Discovery Whale Watch

    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

    $90.10

    13+ l Morning tours: 4 hrs | Afternoon tours: 3 hrs

    0

    Adult • 3 Hour Afternoon Whale Watch

    $79.50

    0

    Child • 3 Hour Afternoon Whale Watch

    $68.90

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

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      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
    2.2K reviews•Google Maps
    1,909
    69
    10
    9
    25

    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 awesome and exceeded my expectations. Didn’t really expect to see much, but there were 3 or 4 whales 🐳 that showed themselves frequently! The guide was very knowledgeable too.

    Photo of Cindy

    Cindy

    September 1, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    It was awesome and exceeded my expectations. Didn’t really expect to see much, but there were 3 or 4 whales 🐳 that showed themselves frequently! The guide was very knowledgeable too.

    Photo of Cindy

    Cindy

    September 1, 2026

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