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Dana Point Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Eco-Safari

Dana Point Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Eco-Safari

Overview

Gather the family, kids, and friends to join Orange County's highest rated whale watching activity, featuring exclusive Underwater Viewing Pods. For over 20 years we have provided the most unique and eco-friendly dolphin and whale watching trips to view magnificent Blue Whales, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, and occasionally Orcas (Killer Whales), Pilot Whales, False Killer Whales, and more. Five species of wild dolphins are also seen throughout the year, including mega-pods with up to 10,000 dolphins! Plus sea lions, marine birds, and even sharks. You'll depart from Dana Point, home to one of the most diverse marine eco-systems in the world. Aboard our uncrowded high-tech catamaran you will enjoy up close and personal dolphin and whale watching with expert narration, complimentary triple fudge brownies, and more.

City: Dana Point

Mon 23 Sep

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $100.00

Make a reservation

Mon 23 Sep

Starting at $100.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Licensed Captain and professional crew

U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified vessel

Cetacean Declaration - Join us again for free within one calendar year if you don't see any dolphins or whales

Live commentary on board

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Entry into the Underwater Viewing Pods requires the use of ladder-like steps. Persons with a disability or limited mobility may have difficulty.
Trip times may vary by date.
Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
Regularly sanitised high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitised between use
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitised
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Contactless payments for gratuities and add-ons

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (376)

Kathy_56_jb

Mar 2022

We enjoyed our 2.5 hour excursion into the Pacific from Dana Point. Captain Marie and team (first mates Matt, and Joshua, and photographer Caitlyn) were wonderful. The vessel was clean and comfortable, with about 25 people on board. We arrived around 11 am to find ample parking (it was early March). The checkin, boarding process, and safety orientation are efficient. Once out into the open waters, we soon encountered a huge pod of dolphins- beautiful creatures seemingly jumping with joy. We also got the see the famous Patches dolphin. We spent quite a bit of time “swimming with the dolphins.” The crew seemed determined to give us the opportunity to see a whale and so out we went, further and further, until eureka: a fin whale was spotted. We tracked it, patiently, and were rewarded with several sightings, including a few that were sooo close to the boat. An awesome sight. Such a large creature. Tips: wear or bring a few layers. The trip was typical of boating on open waters, and there were several sick passengers. While we did not experience sea sickness, I do wish I had remembered to take some Dramamine. Bring some water, and maybe an easy to eat snack but I would not recommend trying to eat lunch on board. We had a hearty breakfast, and then ate our packed lunch in the harbor park after the excursion. The crew was friendly and knowledge, and Matt has a comedic streak! You can purchase a photograph at the end of the tour that includes your group’s portrait surrounded by a collage of the sea life viewed ($15). Highly recommended.

Response from Host

Mar 2022

Hi Kathy, thanks for letting us know that you had an enjoyable time on your recent dolphin and whale watching safari. I’m thrilled that you were satisfied with our unique boat, our expert crew, and the up-close dolphin and whale sightings! We appreciate the recommendation and hope you can visit again soon.

Jack_M

Mar 2022

Crew was familiar with marine life and had an impressive network to find the whales. The boat was comfortable and provided a great viewing platform

josephgG8808KM

Mar 2022

What a great time and value. We returned using our vouchers after visiting last year and having a “ no sighting”. Very cool for captain Daves to provide that voucher. The crew was kind and smart and we found gray whales and ran with the dolphin! I highly recommend the catamaran with the glass pontoons. The perspective of seeing the dolphins racing, literally right underneath you from the bow of the ship, or at eye level if you are in the glass pontoon…unreal!

Response from Host

Mar 2022

Hi Joseph, it’s fantastic that you were able to take advantage of the No Sightings vouchers to have a second chance to view the magnificent whale and dolphins. I’m glad you liked our crew and our specially-designed boat. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again soon!