Whale Watching San Diego: Small Group Zodiac
Spot whales and dolphins from a nimble Zodiac with just six guests for intimate wildlife encounters.
From$166/ personincl. taxes and fees
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Discover what we've curated for you
Spot whales and dolphins from a nimble Zodiac with just six guests for intimate wildlife encounters.
Discover what we've curated for you
2.5–3 hrs
Up to 6 people
Captain & crew, Life jackets
Glide across the waters off San Diego aboard a fast Zodiac RIB in search of migrating whales, playful dolphins and other marine life. With only six guests per tour, you enjoy clear sightlines and expert wildlife narration.
Expect 2.5–3 hours on the water and arrive 15 minutes before departure. Tour accommodates a maximum of six guests per boat.
For detailed cancellation policies, please visit our website.
1677 Quivira Rd, 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.
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.
Nate Collins
March 20, 2026
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.
Nate Collins
March 20, 2026