San Diego Whale Watching Tours

Upcoming Departures

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

Guaranteed sightings or your next trip free! | 3.5 Hours | Mid-Dec to Mid-Apr

It's Whale Watching Season!

San Diego is among the world's top destinations for viewing marine wildlife. During our annual whale watching season, mid-December through April, more than 20,000 gray whales will migrate along our coast. For the thrill of a lifetime, cruise alongside these magnificent whales in their natural environment guided by San Diego's most experienced whale watching fleet.

Flagship's history traces back to the world's first whale watching cruise—right here in San Diego in 1955. Learn about the ocean ecosystem from our experienced guides and enjoy live commentary on the sights and sea creatures you may encounter: gray whales, fin whales, humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, sea lions and more.

Your ticket sales help support Ocean Connectors, providing San Diego youth with access to hands-on environmental education. Our tours strictly adhere to NOAA's Marine Life Viewing Guidelines, maintaining a respectful 100-yard distance from large whales and limiting observation times to 30 minutes or less. This ensures a safe and stress-free experience.

Best of all, whale sightings are guaranteed. If you do not see a whale, your next trip is free!

Guaranteed Sighting Ocean Connectors logo

Young family pointing out whales

Your Experience Includes

  • Ship-Wide, 360-Degree Viewing
  • Open-Air Observation Deck
  • Snacks and Beverages for Purchase
  • Spacious Indoor/Outdoor Seating

Select Your Cruise

San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

Cruising
  • 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
  • 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Adult | Mon-Fri Ages 13+ | $52.00
Child | Mon-Fri Ages 4-12 | $39.00
Adult | Sat-Sun Ages 13+ | $55.00
Child | Sat-Sun Ages 4-12 | $41.25
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Before you depart

Arrive 15 Minutes Before Scheduled Departure
Arrive 15 Minutes Before Scheduled Departure
Flagship Cruises & Events is cashless. We accept credit, debit, and mobile payments.
Flagship Cruises & Events is cashless. We accept credit, debit, and mobile payments.
The Vessel and Interior Main Deck are Wheelchair Accessible But The Exterior Top Deck and Restrooms Are Not
The Vessel and Interior Main Deck are Wheelchair Accessible But The Exterior Top Deck and Restrooms Are Not
Sunscreen or Hat
Sunscreen or Hat
Bring a Camera
Bring a Camera
No Smoking
No Smoking
Binoculars Recommended
Binoculars Recommended
No Pets Except Service Animals
No Pets Except Service Animals
Dress in Warm Clothing in Layers
Dress in Warm Clothing in Layers
If Prone To Seasickness, Consider Medication In Advance
If Prone To Seasickness, Consider Medication In Advance

Cruises may be cancelled in the rare event of unsafe weather conditions.
For further information, please visit our FAQ

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Whale Watching Route

We follow the whales' migration path to bring you up close for the best sighting spots, which change every day.

Early in the season, whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. On their return trip, northbound whales swim further out, up to 9-12 miles off the coast.

 

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