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High Speed Zodiac Whale Watching Safari from Dana Point

Overview
A fast and fun wildlife adventure awaits your family aboard our zodiac-style vessels (rigid inflatable boats). This cruise of up to 20 passengers gives you a thrilling 2-hour look at Southern California’s year-round whales and dolphins. With speeds of 30 knots or more, you’ll spend less time looking for animals and more time enjoying them! Your zodiac adventure will have you incredibly close to the ocean’s surface and within arm’s reach of wildlife. At the conclusion of your cruise, you'll receive one of Mrs. Capt. Dave's famously delicious Triple Fudge Brownies. (Some folks love the brownies more than the whales!)

We are a certified Responsible Whale Watching partner with the World Cetacean Alliance located in Dana Point, CA, the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World®, and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas.
City: Dana Point
Wed 25 Sep
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $89.00
Wed 25 Sep
Starting at $89.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
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
Licensed Captain and professional crew member
Additional Info
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Minimum age is 6 years
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • You may encounter occasional ocean spray
  • No over-sized bags or coolers please.
  • 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 (154)
RODPCM
Aug 2019
Wow! I cannot get enough time with Captain Dave's Dolphin Safari! Every time I go ouhit it just keeps getting better! So I want to talk to those of you who may have never gone dolphin & whale watching before...i have had a lot of experience & these guys are absolutely the best! The most helpful & welcoming, the most knowledgeable & they will also always make you laugh! The weather in Dana Point cannot be beat! This trip is family friendly & safe! I could go on & on about all the dolphins & whales I have seen, but you just need to trust me & bring your family, your friends...i promise you will not be disappointed & you will return over & over! Please do not buy a ticket to a dolphin show...the true Sea World is as a little boy recently told me on Captain Dave's boat, is right here in the sea!!!
Response from Host
Aug 2019
Hi, Thanks for your review. It’s just wonderful that you continue to choose Capt. Dave’s for the best dolphin and whale watching excursions. I’m so happy that you think so highly of our Captains, crew, expertise, boats, and lovely Dana Point location. It’s our pleasure to continue getting you up-close and personal with the fascinating marine wildlife. I hope we’ll see you again soon!
nursejenny303
Apr 2019
We have gone out with Captain Dave's multiple times over the years. This was the first time doing the Zodiac, and it will be our preferred trip from here on out! Captain Marie was fabulous and made sure everyone got what they needed out of the experience, whether it be a good photo or a good view. This is a much more intimate experience. It is a bumpy ride, which I love, but neck was a little stiff later in the day. If you have neck or back problems I'd suggest the bigger boat. Besides being closer to the whales and dolphins, huge benefit is that you can zip around faster to get to where they are spotted. I can't say enough great things about Captain Dave's... We are their biggest fans!
Response from Host
May 2019
Hi, Thank you very much for your positive review, and for posting that awesome photo! We appreciate that you continue to choose Capt. Dave’s for the best dolphin and whale watching experience. I’m so glad you enjoyed our exciting, high-speed catamaran Fast Cat this time! You are right that this particular vessel is not suited for anyone with head, neck or back injuries. And it’s great that you were satisfied with Capt. Marie’s service as you spent time with the amazing marine wildlife. Thanks again for coming out! I hope we’ll see you again soon.
Steve G
Apr 2019
Two hours plus of whales, dolphins, sea lions and beautiful coastline. Only way we could have gotten closer to the marine life would have been to jump in. Dolphins interacting with the Gray whale close to shore was incredible. Captain Tom facilitated some amazing photo ops. Excellent value and great memories. One of the highlights of our vacation!
Response from Host
Apr 2019
Hi, Thanks so much for the 5-star review. I’m thrilled that Capt. Tom did his best to get you super close to the amazing marine wildlife, and that you enjoyed viewing the different animals and scenery. We appreciate the positive feedback, and we’re so happy to have made the trip unforgettable for you. I hope we’ll see you again soon.

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