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Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland

Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland

Overview

The Elkhorn Slough has the largest population of Sea Otters in California, and over 300 species of birds! We’ve been offering guided boat tours of this wetland for almost 30 years, and have an intimate knowledge of the area, its history, and it's wildlife. All our Naturalists have Marine Science degrees, and we are third party certified Wildlife Stewards, so you can be assured that we always conduct ourselves responsibly around the wildlife. Our stable, comfortable vessel is designed for unobstructed wildlife viewing, and we’ve been a preferred outfitter for many prominent wildlife photographers, like Frans Lanting and Suzi Eszterhas, to name a few. On our relaxing ride, no one gets sea sick, and our safety record is flawless. We also operate a large science and nature themed Gift Shop / Bookstore celebrating the Monterey Bay. Our shelves contain over 600 titles, many of which are 30-50% off the list price, plus attire, stuffed animals and souvenirs.

City: Monterey & Carmel

Thu 11 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $46.00

Make a reservation

Thu 11 Jun

Starting at $46.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Free street parking along Moss Landing Road.

Use of binoculars during tour.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tours typically last an hour and a half to two hours.
Our minimum age fro passengers is 3 years old.
Weather in the Monterey Bay can vary, so it's always a good idea to bring layers of clothing.
There is no restroom onboard, but restrooms are available at our Gift Shop and in the harbor.
Do not enter "Elkhorn Slough" into your maps app. This will direct you away from our location, and we'll be unable to delay our departure time if you are late.
Please arrive 30 minutes before your tour time to check in, and walk over to departure point.

What To Expect

Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve

The world's largest population of Southern Sea Otters and 340 bird species inhabit this spectacular wetland. Our expertly guided tours will show you all this, and more! And, we offer complimentary use of binoculars to ensure that everybody gets a great look at the wildlife.

Moss Landing Harbor

Moss Landing Harbor is not just a commercial fishing harbor. Overflowing with local character, and home to hundreds of endlessly entertaining Sea Lions, the harbor also hosts a number of Marine Research institutions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute. Their research vessels and impressive technology is often in view as we make our way to the Elkhorn Slough. But before doing so, we always like to pause and linger at the mouth of Moss Landing Harbor, and discuss the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and it's deep submarine canyon. The Elkhorn Slough is a tidal inlet fed directly by the Monterey Bay, so these bodies of water share a unique relationship and history. And we might even encounter Humpback Whales feeding close to shore!

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (14)

lindajH9930PJ

Dec 2024

It was a beautiful day and we saw many sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, and many species of birds. The tour guide shared so much information with us. It was a wonderful two hours!

Response from Host

Jan 2025

Thanks so much for joining us, Linda! The winter months really can be quite spectacular out on the Slough.

FarAway634527

Nov 2024

Enjoyable boat trip up Elkhorn Slough, we saw seals, otters, many species of birds. Captain/owner and crew coordinator/narrator were great! Recommended.

Response from Host

Mar 2025

We’re so happy you enjoyed your Safari with us! Come see us again when you’re in the area. Every tour is full of fun, new wildlife surprises!

Cheryl_G

Aug 2024

Great trip with knowledgeable guides! Fun experience. Also gave a great suggestion for lunch. Communication on purchasing tickets and directions were helpful.

Response from Host

Aug 2024

Thanks so much for joining us, Cheryl. I’m happy to hear you enjoyed your experience with us. Come see us next time you’re in the area. Every Safari has something new to experience!