San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

Overview

Whale watching season is all year long in San Diego! Our team at Next Level Sailing provides the optimal experience with guides so experienced we received a 100 percent success rate during winter whale watching when spotting the King of the Deep.

We are one of the best outdoor activities to do in San Diego. Gray whale watching season spans from mid-December through April. Blue whales and fin whales are seen feeding in San Diego from April - August. Humpback whales and minke whales are seen throughout the year, particularly in the spring, summer, and fall. Aboard our 141-foot sailing yacht, the Yacht America, you will see a plethora of whales firsthand in their natural habitat. In addition to whales, we also see dolphins and sea lions, and an abundance of naval activity. Don't be surprised if you see an F-18 fly overhead!

Bring your own picnic, friends, and family for a wonderful day out on the water

City: San Diego

Sun 06 Apr

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $85.00

Make a reservation

Sun 06 Apr

Starting at $85.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

4.5-hr sailing cruise

Bring layers, blankets, and jackets. It can be cold on the water!

Free Parking. Check-in located next to parking lot.

1:15 PM trip: Check in between 12:30 - 12:45

No seasickness' guarantee: Lose your lunch, we get you a new one

2:00 PM Trip: Check in between 1:15 PM - 1:30 PM

Sodas and snacks

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please call if you have a wheelchair so we can discuss the boarding options as we have had guests with wheelchairs enjoy this experience. We do have 5 steps in order to board the vessel. There is a single step in the deck. Please call Thank you!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (1000)

Lauren_M

Mar 2025

All open deck. Be sure to bring many layers as it is very cold out on the water unless a hot summer day. It was 70 degrees on shore felt like 30 on the water. Hard wooden seats with no backs or cushions Did not see any whales but tons of dolphins. Gave “guarantee” to see whales and could return another time for free. Not sure I’d want to spend another full day hoping to see whales. Crew was very nice and accommodating. Provided snacks twice and water/soft drinks were included with ticket. Alcohol for purchase. You can bring food onboard. Consider a different carrier with closed deck options unless hot day.

katez938

Mar 2025

Had a great experience on the boat! We got lucky and saw everything -- dolphins, whales, sea lions. Staff were very educated and enthusiastic :)

valinig2016

Mar 2025

We had an amazing whale-watching experience! The crew was incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to everyone’s needs. We saw about nine whales, hundreds of mama and baby dolphins, and some seals—plus, we learned all about the local marine life, including the kelp forests. The boat was stocked with snacks and sodas, and they even had motion sickness bands etc for anyone feeling unwell. Pro tip: Book directly through the company! We ran into traffic due to a broken streetlight and were running behind for check-in. Thankfully, the captain waited for us, but having direct contact with the tour operator would have made things much easier. Bonus: They have cute merch, so be sure to check it out before you leave!