Dana Point Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Eco-Safari

Highlights

Chance to spot various whale and dolphin species
Underwater viewing pods: get up close without disturbing the wildlife
Live on-board commentary from a naturalist guide

Summary

Meet your group at Dana Point Harbor. For your convenience, there’s free parking by your meeting spot on the harbor. Your departure time may vary by the date you choose, so please take note the service provider contacts you after booking to confirm available times for the date you’ve picked. Meet at the Dolphin Deck before the departure time of your whale and dolphin watching eco-safari. Board one of three catamarans—either Manute’a, DolphinSafari, or Lily. Keep your eyes open for sea lions, marine birds, and other creatures, as this is a great place to spot them. As your captain takes you further out, your group spots dolphins, whales, and sometimes sharks. Some whales you might see on your journey include Blue Whales, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, and occasionally Orcas (Killer Whales). Also, keep in mind, there are various species of wild dolphins that might cross your path, too. As you cruise, enjoy commentary from a naturalist who fills you in on the sea creatures, their lifestyles, their natural habitats, and what’s being done to protect them. If you’d like, you can head down to the underwater viewing pods on your catamaran to catch sight of the ocean life from an underwater vantage point. After your adventure, your boat docks back at the harbor, and you’re sent on your way with a complimentary triple-fudge brownie.

Tour info

Duration

2 hours 30 minutes

Why take this tour?

It’s possible to spot whales and dolphins around Dana Point all year-round. On this tour, maximize your chance of a sighting on-board a purpose-built catamaran and enjoy incredible close-up views from the underwater viewing pods. Look out for whales, dolphins, sea lions and more; and learn more about the magnificent sea creatures from your guide.

What’s included?

U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified vessel
Licensed Captain and professional crew
Live commentary on board
Cetacean Declaration - Join us again for free within one calendar year if you don't see any dolphins or whales
Food and drinks
Gratuities
DVD (available to purchase)
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 2h 30m
Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands

Per CDC and California Department of Health guidelines, guests who have been fully vaccinated are not required to wear a face mask. Guests who have not been vaccinated, and are over the age of two, agree to wear a face mask throughout the experience.

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Dana Point Harbor

About operator:

Known as the “Dolphin & Whale Capital of the World” Dana Point Harbor offers a variety of recreational amenities, boater facilities, dockside dining, and unique shopping experiences that cater to visitors, locals and boating enthusiasts. Activities abound both in and out of the water from watching migratory gray whales that frequent the coastline to enjoying the stunning sunsets and picturesque harbor views. Discover Dana Point Harbor and set sail on a historic and unforgettable seaside adventure.