San Diego Whale Watching: Year-Round Marine Adventure

Experience year-round whale spotting on our San Diego whale watching cruise. Join us aboard the Yacht America for a thrilling adventure with experienced guides and the chance to see gray whales, blue whales, fin whales, humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and naval activity.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Next Level Sailing - The journey includes sailing by North Island Naval Air Station, US Navy Base Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, and Point Loma Lighthouse, offering views of sea lions, dolphins, and whales.
What's Included
  • 4.5-hr sailing cruise
  • Whale sighting guarantee: If you don’t see a whale, you get to come back for free
  • No seasickness’ guarantee: Lose your lunch, we get you a new one
  • Free Parking. Check-in located next to parking lot.
  • Sodas and snacks
  • Bring layers, blankets, and jackets. It can be cold on the water!
  • 9:00 AM trip: Check in between 8:00 AM…
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
Additional Information

In San Diego, whale watching is a year-round activity! Our expert team at Next Level Sailing guarantees a premier experience, with such skilled guides that we achieved a 100 percent success rate in detecting the King of the Deep during the winter season.
Recognized as one of the top outdoor experiences in San Diego, the period for watching gray whales…

Location
Next Level Sailing
Shelter Island Drive
Check in opens an hour before departure time and closes 30 minutes before departure. If you arrive after check in, you will miss the boat. Check in flag located across street from the Best Western Island Palms Hotel and Blue Wave Bar & Grill. Check Inclusions/Exclusions for specific check in times.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.8
(2254 Ratings)
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F6143ezjoannep
Nov 19, 2025
Awesome!!! - It was a perfect experiance for my sons 21st Birthday!!! The staff was great, it was a small group and the boat was beautiful. Definatly worth the price. A beautiful day on the water.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ronald_d
Nov 14, 2025
Bucket list trip for my wife to be. - It was a wonderful excursion and the ship was wonderful and the crew was outstanding and very friendly v
Review provided by Viator
Christopher_s
Nov 9, 2025
Best day ever!!! - Dress in layers for sure, it gets cold and windy out on the water. We had the best time on this adventure! We seen so many dolphins and we were able to see 3 different humpback whales! Backs and drinks are provided. The crew is so knowledgeable about the whales and friendly! And Marie, the dog is so smart at alerting you that whales are dolphins are close by! Book the trip, you won’t regret it, was absolutely amazing start to finish! Best day ever!
Review provided by Viator
Mari_a
Nov 9, 2025
Great experience. ... - Great experience. Beautiful boat. Knowledgable crew. Easy to book. Very accurate email instructions.
Review provided by Viator
Sandy_g
Nov 1, 2025
A beautiful day! - The ship is beautiful. The staff exceptionally friendly and capable. We were guaranteed to see a whale, and as that sadly did not happen, we are invited to come back anytime (no expiration!) for another sail absolutely free. Can’t beat that deal!
Review provided by Viator
Kaselda_m
Oct 28, 2025
Great experience - Everyone was so nice. Fathom was so personable and so knowledgeable. I didn't see any whales bit what a beautiful experience on the boat. I look forward to coming back.
Review provided by Viator
Emily_s
Oct 27, 2025
Beautiful ship and Fabulous crew! - Incredibly friendly, hospitable and knowledgeable crew. Highly recommend! We didn't see any whales but it was such a lovely day out on the water.
Review provided by Viator
Sirena704
Oct 27, 2025
friends and beautiful ocean and boat - super gorgeous and fun, went with a friend and an 8 year old, all had a good time, worth the money. wish we got more lucky to see more, but still nice
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Helen_s
Oct 26, 2025
Excellent - So much fun. Crew is so polite and keeps you entertained the whole trip. Loved it! Just a wonderful activity to do while visiting San Diego.
Review provided by Viator
Karen_f
Oct 23, 2025
Beautiful vessel and terrific crew - pick this one! - We loved everything about this adventure! The crew was engaging and the sailing smooth and we learned a long about the importance of the harbor to the community. Once we were out at sea we saw plenty of whale action and it was quiet and non threatening to the whales, who came quite close. Thanks for a fabulous afternoon.
Review provided by Viator
From $85
up to 9 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).