Whale Watching Tour From Monterey
Overview
Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Embark on a 4-hour whale watching tour. All trips are narrated by a naturalist or marine biologist guide, who will also spend one on one time with guests while on deck. Professional photographers are often sent to capture the spectacular sights seen from on board and are available to offer tips for your own photography.
Additional Info
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
Warm layers are recommended
Sun protection, camera, binoculars, water, and snacks are recommended
If prone to motionsickness, please take precautionary measures and we also sell motion sickness remedies in the shop
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Meet at Fisherman's Wharf to begin your whale watching experience at 9am. Monterey Bay is considered to be a premier destination for whale watching year round as these animals are often spotted there. Your whale watching trip will be narrated by a marine biologist or naturalist, who will provide you educational and interesting information about marine wildlife. In addition to teaching you about the wildlife, your marine biologists and naturalists will provide information about the natural history of the local area and talk about conservation. While out on the ocean your marine biologists and naturalists will also be collecting sighting data for scientific research. During your trip the crew will show you how to spot whales and dolphins as well as give you advice on how to best capture photos and videos of the wildlife. You will return back to the original departure point between 12:30pm and 1pm.
What‘s Included
Time listed is when boat LEAVES! Check-in 30-45 minutes ahead
Marine Biologist/Naturalist & Deckhand
Coffee and/or Tea
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks (Chips, Candy, Soda, and Water)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
Sunset Whale Watch Tour
Naturalist Guide
Duration: 3 hours
Boat Ride
3 Hour Whale Watching Tour
Naturalist Guide
Duration: 3 hours
Complimentary Hot Beverages
Boat Ride
4-Hour Whale Watching Tour
Naturalist Guide
Duration: 4 hours
Complimentary Hot Beverages
Boat Ride
Reviews
1,051 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Humpbacks!
Hugh O,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a best experience! The humpbacks had just arrived in Monterey Bay. We must have seen at least 10. 5 continuously passed beneath the bot to surface and splash close by. The crew were excellent with information.
Jack and Jill
nicholef959,Apr 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was a once in lifetime experience
Great time
Kelli S,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We saw humpbacks several times. It was kind of early in season (I believe that’s what they said) so they weren’t really active, just swimming along and blowing their spouts. Got a few tail shows but nothing crazy. Did have gray whale siting as well but only 1-2 times. Really enjoyed seeing the Risso dolphins. There were about 10 of them playing around. We also saw lots of sea lions and otters so that was fun too. The trip was rough and several people got sick but the crew was very helpful to them. My husband and I had no problems. Maddi, the on board naturalist was soooo good. She knows her stuff. She had lots of fun facts about all the wildlife, the ocean and the boaters. We really enjoyed our trip and would highly recommend it. If you’re prone to seasickness take something before!
Great trip!
Steve123765,Mar 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great trip. Really knowledgeable and informative crew. Saw 4 humpback whales
You have to go it is so beautiful and this crew is the best.
Passenger22093031721,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The staff was informing and friendly. The boat was clean and organized.
Great Whale Encounter
stuontour14,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an excellent experience. The boat was modern and the crew professional. The on board briefings on marine life, especially whales, was excellent and filled the time between stops. The trip out was bumpy and some guests were seasick so ensure if you do suffer then take appropriate medication. We were fortunate and encountered a Sperm Whale, which was excellent. Other species such as Albatross and dolphins were also seen. In conclusion, a first class experience and a great encounter with a magnificent Whale.
Fun whale watching event
gottemucci,Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great trip. Space to move side to side. We were able to take many pictures of the whales. The oceanographer provided alot of knowledge about whales.
Whale watching
Janet J,Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Seasickness even after taking dramamine may happen so be prepared. A stabilizer for your phone to take better pictures is recommended.
Oh, great. Would book again!!
Adriana K,Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Don't hesitate, just book. Money worth 100%. Well maintained boats, hot drinks on board. There is a lot of talk about marine life during the cruise. Friendly staff, friendly staff. Do their utmost to make you enjoy the whales well. We were lucky enough to be ‘surrounded’ by 5 humpback whales so we could not sail away for a long time and therefore admire them for an extra long time. Staff care about nature, enjoy the speed themselves and even pick up floating plastic from the ocean. Super!! Would book again.
Lots to see, lots of fun.
geobarter,Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was great. The crew was nice, excited about their subject, and fun. We got to see lots of wildlife including the promised whales. We had an excited experience with killer whales and running sea lions. We had areal good time.
From US$75.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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