Overview
Enjoy the best sightseeing on the San Diego Bay—with a professionally narrated tour provided by The San Diego Natural History Museum of San Diego's whale-watching hot spots. Join us on the water as we search for Gray Whales (winter), Blue Whales (Summer), Minke Whales, Fin Whales, dolphins, sea lions, marine birds and much more!
As we cruise, we’ll see up-close views of the bay's wildlife as well as iconic landmarks from a new perspective. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture all the sights in photos and video.
If some type of whale is not sighted on your whale watching cruise, you will receive a pass good to return for a Whale Watching Cruise or Harbor Cruise from City Cruises San Diego.
NOTE: The whale watching vessel cruises in the open ocean. Our yacht is the most comfortable yacht in San Diego, due to stabilizers that greatly reduce the yacht's motion.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Expert narration by Captains and Volunteer Naturalists from the San Diego Natural History Museum
Spectacular views of the city skyline and local landmarks, including whales, dolphins and sea lions
All fees and/or taxes
Three Hours (Dec-April) Four Hours (June-Sept) Whale Watching Cruise on the San Diego Bay
Food and drinks (available to purchase onboard)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Boards at Pier 2 with ACE parking lots on the pier next to the USS Midway Museum.
Winter Whale:
Morning | Board 9:15am Cruise 9:30am - 1:00pm
Afternoon | Board 1:15pm Cruise 1:30pm - 5:00pm
Summer Whale:
Morning | Board 8:45am Cruise 9:00am - 1:00pm
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Check in at Pier Two, 970 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego CA. 92101. Harbor Dr at Broadway St
Your reservation is only valid for the time slot booked.
Winter Whale Watching: Dec-April
Morning Cruise
BOARD: 9:15am | CRUISE: 9:30am - 1:00pm
Afternoon Cruise
BOARD: 1:15pm | CRUISE: 1:30pm - 5:00pm
Summer whale Watching:
BOARD: 8:45am | CRUISE: 9:00am - 1:00pm
What to expect
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City Cruises San Diego Whale Watching & Harbor Tours
Whale and dolphin watching. As we cruise, we’ll see up-close views of the bay's wildlife as well as iconic landmarks from a new perspective. Onboard our staff will provide live narration and details about the aquatic life and landmarks we pass for a truly memorable experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture all the sights in photos and video.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Los Angeles).
Additional Information
- Please let us know if you require a wheelchair accessible cruise so that we can confirm that your requested cruise date has wheelchair accessible departures.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
FAQs about San Diego Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure
Can I cancel San Diego Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 4 hours.
Where does it start?
Boards at Pier 2 with ACE parking lots on the pier next to the USS Midway Museum.
What's included?
- Expert narration by Captains and Volunteer Naturalists from the San Diego Natural History Museum
- Spectacular views of the city skyline and local landmarks, including whales, dolphins and sea lions
- Three Hours (Dec-April) Four Hours (June-Sept) Whale Watching Cruise on the San Diego Bay
What's not included?
- Food and drinks (available to purchase onboard)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Operated by City Cruises California












