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    1. Local experiences/
    2. San Diego, CA/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Whale Watching/
    5. San Diego Whale Watching Tour

    The very best experiences curated by local experts

    Best local prices
    Flexible cancellations
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    San Diego Whale Watching Tour

    Sail on a stable 138-foot yacht to spot migrating whales off San Diego

    From$86/ person

    Duration

    3.5–4 hrs

    Includes

    Water and snacks, Blankets

    Highlights

    Step aboard the elegant 138-foot sailing yacht America for a half-day whale watching adventure off San Diego. Spend 3.5–4 hours on the Pacific searching for migrating giants while enjoying a smooth, eco-friendly sail.

    1. Sail on a stable 138-foot yacht powered by wind
    2. Spot gray whales, dolphins and sea birds along the coast
    3. Enjoy complimentary water, soda and light snacks
    4. Relax under provided blankets when the breeze picks up
    5. Capture panoramic photos from spacious open decks

    What's Included

    1. Water, soda, chips and granola bars
    2. Blankets for warmth on deck

    Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking on the dock and deck. Arrive at the check-in area at least 30 minutes before departure; the yacht leaves promptly with no refunds for late arrivals.

    Cancellation policy

    Full refund for cancellations received at least 48 hours before departure. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Rebooking offered when possible. No-shows are charged in full.

    Meeting location

    2050 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego CA 92106

    Experience provided by Next Level Sailing
    Experience provided by Next Level Sailing

    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 #JXUGQ7

    Adult

    $86.40

    Ages 13 and over

    0

    Child

    $51.84

    Ages 12 and under

    0

    Active Military Member

    $43.21

    Must present valid military ID when boarding

    0

    Retired Military Member

    $73.44

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.8 stars• 433 reviews

    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    433 reviews•Google Maps

    The crew aboard the historic replica yacht America consistently earns praise for their warmth and expertise. Captain, Diane, Ed, Axel, and Jonathan (plus Marie, the ship's dog!) create an engaging atmosphere with storytelling, marine life facts, and genuine enthusiasm for their work. Guests appreciate how attentive the staff is to everyone's comfort, helping with seasickness when needed and providing complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the journey. What really stands out is how genuinely pet-friendly this operation is. Multiple reviewers mention the crew going above and beyond for their dogs, providing beds, water bowls, and plenty of attention. Wildlife sightings vary by day—some guests saw orcas, humpbacks, and blue whales while others encountered massive dolphin pods or no whales at all. Even on days when whales don't appear, most travelers still rave about the sailing experience itself and the beautiful boat. The four-hour tours on the open water feel like authentic adventures, and the company offers return trips if wildlife doesn't cooperate, showing their commitment to customer satisfaction.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    I experienced way more than expected for my first time sailing and whale watching!! The whole process was seamless and so well run. All the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating to those needing any motion sickness relief, or just a little snack. They also helped my big pup out after his big adventure. They got him his own bed to relax on, offered a dog bowl for water and lots of pets. The actual whale watching was so unreal!! We saw several Orcas and dolphins for a once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend this crew for a nice few hours out on the ocean!

    Photo of Louise McEwen

    Louise McEwen

    September 21, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    I experienced way more than expected for my first time sailing and whale watching!! The whole process was seamless and so well run. All the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating to those needing any motion sickness relief, or just a little snack. They also helped my big pup out after his big adventure. They got him his own bed to relax on, offered a dog bowl for water and lots of pets. The actual whale watching was so unreal!! We saw several Orcas and dolphins for a once in a lifetime experience! I highly recommend this crew for a nice few hours out on the ocean!

    Photo of Louise McEwen

    Louise McEwen

    September 21, 2025

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