If youre lucky you might even see gray whales with calves, blue whales, fin whales, dolphins, and sea lions on a whale watching cruise. Whale watching tours at next level sailing san diegos highest success rate. On their return trip, northbound whales swim further out, up to 912 miles off the coast. Relax in stylish rooms with modern amenities and views of san diego harbor. The institute features displays of tide pool life and nautical sailing gear, and a huge replica of a california gray whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. Each gray whale watching experience is narrated by experienced hornblower captains and the museum whalers, museumtrained naturalists. Oct 10, 2019 port of san diego cruise terminal address. The fourhour cruise includes a live narration by the experienced captain and onboard naturalist from san diego natural history museum. Highlights of the cruise include pods of hundreds of dolphins, plus an informative harbor cruise around the north end of the big bay.
He became quite the celebrity on our san diego waterfront. It is official, the whales have made their appearance in san diego and it is time for you to get out there and see them for yourself. Check out recent whale sightings in san diego including orcas, humpbacks, blue and grey whales as well as dolphins and other marine animals. A nightly 3hour dinnerdance cruise is available along with champagne jazz brunch, cocktail, and whale. What unique activity do you offer in addition to san diego whale watching. Once behind the hotel you will see a large whale fountain, make a right at the fountain and proceed down the walkway past the pool until you see the gate to the marina on the left hand side. A scenic, 70mile twohour drive from downtown san diego will get you to the summit, where youll find forests. Sail jada affordable sailing yachts for charters and tours in san diego. However, because blue whales and gray whales migrate at. The nat gray whale watching san diego natural history. In this article, i would like to present to you a comprehensive list of all possible san diego whale watching tours available in san diego county. Summer whale watching adventure hornblower cruises.
When youre booking san diego tours or looking for things to do in san diego with kids, definitely include taking a whale watching tour on your list. We offer a premier whale watching experience in southern california. Feel the exhilaration of seeing some of the oceans largest and most magnificent creatures. I have to say that i was a bit disappointed when my husband said that we would be leaving out newport beach harbor.
Harbor drive and for brunch or dinner cruises, check in. What other types of animals will i see in san diego. And near the historic lighthouse at cabrillo national monument, the. Apr 17, 2020 click the download button above to enjoy a sunset under the oceanside pier or an afternoon with the oceanside harbor sea lions as your zoom background. Our whale watching trips are cancelled until further notice due to californias state order to stayathome. The bikes throttle up to 20mph so they are extremely fun and the views are amazing during the whole route. If you dont see a whale on the cruise, youll get a whale check to try again another time. Below is a list of the nearest beaches to whale watching in san diego. Saturday near shelter island, but he has drawn some curious onlookers.
Sand diegos aquatic ecosystem is your backdrop for one of the most breathtaking tours you could imaginewhales, dolphins, sea lions, sea birds and more are abundant in these perfectly blue waters. Gray whales migrate winterspring from feeding grounds in alaskan waters to calving lagoons in baja california and back. Nov 21, 2017 san diego, ca a small gray whale was spotted monday morning in the san diego bay, according to the port of san diego. San diego area bay cruises, fishing and whale watching excursions year round. Whale watching in san diego, san diego, ca california. At 6,142 feet, palomar mountain is one of the highest places in san diego county. Another perk for coronado locals and visitors, is the option to take the convenient coronado ferry across the bay, which drops you off mere feet away from the docks housing both whale watching. Hornblower san diego whale watching see whales up close and personal like never before. For the second year in a row, a gray whale has been observed hanging out in san diego bay. The 2014 san diego big bay whale festival is just around the corner with lots of fun activities in store for you, and im here to give you some helpful tips to ensure you get the most out of the festival. For reservations, directions, or questions you can call them at 619.
During the 200809 season a young gray whale swam into san diego bay and stayed for over 3 weeks. Police closed down harbor drive for roughly an hour or more. We are located at the bottom of the ramp through that gate. This magnificent marine mammal weighs in at over 300,000 pounds and each blue whale must consume 4 to 6 tons of krill each day. Kids go free at san diego whale watch the official.
San diego whale and dolphin watching cruises getyourguide. When you book a trip with us, prepare for the best whale watching in san diego. In the summer and fall, san diego whale watching visitors will be able to view the gigantic blue whale along our coast. Not only is there a 1,942 foot long pier you can catch a glimpse of dolphins or whales from, but oceanside also has a fullfledged harbor filled with boats that offer daily tours and. San diego whale watching cruise go whale watching from san diego aboard a replica of a historic sailing schooner that won the worlds first americas cup sailing competition in 1851. The san diego big bay whale festival tips seaport village. Whale watching visit oceanside north shore san diego. Established in 1962, the port of san diego is the fourth. Our experienced crew knows exactly how to track down and show you the spectacular wildlife the pacific ocean has to offer. The yacht america is very stable and very few guests ever experience any motion sickness.
Enjoy a relaxing retreat across from san diego harbor and the san diego cruise port terminal, with complimentary breakfast, wifi, and an outdoor pool and sun deck. Experience the thrill of whale watching up close on a fun, fast, 6 passenger rib boat. You can also occasionally spot gray whales from onshore. To locate the whale watching in san d iego just select the map tab above. San diego whale watching tours whale cruises with hornblower. A group of 6 six of us decided to go out on super bowl sunday and were were able to see a gray whale. During your outing with hornblower san diego whale watching, youll have the opportunity to see these animals and even snap some great photographs of them. Gray whale watching season begins december 14, 2019. Video downloads are large files, make sure your device has adequate space before downloading. San diego ranks among the worlds most incredible places for viewing marine wildlife. And near the historic lighthouse at cabrillo national monument. Enjoy a fullservice cocktail and snack bar as you dance the night away surrounded. For the ultimate guide to planning your san diego vacation, view and download the san diego visitor planning guide, packed with useful information that will help you plan the perfect san diego getaway. During our whale watching tour we saw some gray whales and humpback whales.
Board a 2story yacht that gives you 360degree views of the ocean. Pedestrian accident at harbor drive at fifth avenue. Jan 03, 20 by audrey evans, birch aquarium whale watching coordinator december 26 marked the start of birch aquariums th season of whale watching with flagship san diego harbor excursion. Gray whale tours may be a bit shorter since gray whales do come closer to shore. Whether by land or by sea, san diego is one of californias best spots for whale watching. Gray whale sightings are common in the waters along our coast around this time of year. August 7, 2019 a woman in her 30s was seriously injured in a downtown san diego when she was struck by a vehicle while jogging at harbor drive and fifth avenue. See magnificent california gray whales on their annual journey from the arctic to californias baja coast on a whale watching cruise from san diego. Right at end of short access road onto quivira road. Boarding at hornblower ticket booth at 970 north harbor drive, san diego, ca. Whale watching in san diego, san diego, ca california beaches. Cast off from san diego harbor and head into the waters of san diego bay in search of the majestic california gray whale. Walking directions our ticket checkin booth address is 1617 quivira road, san diego, ca.
Theres something for everyone and its loaded with live entertainment. The san diego union tribune reported the crash took place about 8. The blue whale is the largest mammal in the world with an average length of over 80 feet. To see females with their calves, go late in the season as they take their babies back north with them. Traditionally, whale watching season runs from december through april. Whale watching season in san diego runs from middecember through april, and migrating gray whales are the most common species. San diego is by far one of the best places in the country to go on a whale watching tour. Renowned for our wide range of adventure offerings, we have unsurpassed expertise in the approach and observation of marine wildlife in their natural environment. San diego whale watching tours mission bay san diego ca. Private whale watching in san diego including tours of the harbor and eco charters to the coronado islands.
Whether you are from the southern california area or coming from any location around the world, it is well worth the trip for this whale watching tour that never goes out of season. Whale watching in san diego in san diego, ca is in the california beaches attractions, parks, and things to do category. Delight in a smooth ride aboard this charming and casual vessel. This video was filmed in san diego aboard the adventure hornblower whale watching boat which departs from downtown.
Partnered with premiere san diego private yachts, we provide sailboats, motor boats, modern and classical. Hotels near san diego whale watch, san diego on tripadvisor. Theres no need to travel one hour north to newport beach or dana point to go whale watching when there are convenient boats departing from downtown san diego. Best whale watching tours in san diego next level sailing. Follow signs to the airport then turn onto harbor island drive when in front of the airport entrance under the overpass. During this whalewatching season, the san diego natural history museum offers cruises. Please refer to your reservation confirmation for the address of your correct boarding location. Enjoy sweeping, panoramic views of the coastline, the shimmering yachtdotted bay, downtowns skyline, mexico and the surrounding mountains along the way. Sail jada san diego bay sailing charters and tours. Only whale watching company to see whales 100% in 2020 covid19 update. To find out what all those wonderful creatures look like up close and what they look like when you see them from. Learn about the areas gray whales, dolphins and other marine animals in details, along with secrets about the us navy sites you pass as you head out on the.
San diego is rich in animal life, and youll probably spot dolphins, harbor seals, elephant seals, and sea lions as well as whales. Whale watching aboard private yacht harbor sailboats. Available for whale watching, corporate and social charters, incentive rewards and photo shoots. San diego harbor police initially saw the whale by the sweetwater channel. Anyone who has ever visited san diego knows that the surrounding pacific ocean is very much part of the fabric of the city. They offer upcloseandpersonal experiences with these beautiful creatures, many of which can last up to 3. Watch the seasonal migration of california grey whales and blue whales off the san diego coast up close and personal. Discover sailing while on quest for these beautiful california grey whales. All cruises depart from 990 north harbor drive, san diego, ca directions. With 70 miles of coastline directly in the migration path, san diego is an ideal destination to see.
Starting december 26 and occurring through march, the birch aquarium at scripps and san diego harbor excursion team up for narrated, 3. Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime as you embark on a voyage to track whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other majestic. Seaport village is a proud supporter and planner of the 20 whale days festival big bay whale festival. San diego whale watching sail jada classic sailing yachts. San diego offers some of the best whale watching with year round whale sightings of humpback whales, fin whales, orca whales, dolphins, and much more. Between december and april, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate along our coast.
Harbor sailboats offers private whale watching tours aboard our fleet of sailboats 2845 feet. While in san diego, my boyfriend and i wanted to go whale watching. Get the scoop from a guide who studies the migratory patterns of grey whales as you keep a lookout for whales in the water. Enjoy live educational narration from the captains and a trained naturalist from the san diego natural history museum. Experience them in their natural habitat as the sails are filled with wind and you hear the water rushing by. San diego is home to one of the largest protected marine sanctuaries in southern california, and the rich environment attracts lots of marine mammals. Plan your trip in advance download free maps and guides. Did you know oceanside is home to some of the best whale watching in san diego. The lost gray whale hasnt been spotted since about 5 a. Her roomy sundeck for optimal sightseeing and large indoor reception area make her the perfect venue for hosting a private cocktail party, harbor tour, or school dance. Summer whale watching adventure hornblower cruises speed out to sea on a large comfortable yacht, passing barking sea lions and pods of leaping dolphins as we search for the legendary blue whales. Guests learn about the historic sights and landmarks around san diego as well as the environmental efforts and facts concerning the bay and local marine life.
Whale watching report in san diego whale sightings. This research and nature center is located along the west basin of the marina at the end of dana point harbor drive. Onboard, you also have the chance to see dolphins, sea lions, harbor seals, and enjoy a short tour of san diego bay on the way in and out of the harbor. The 5th annual san diego big bay whale festival will be held at the port pavilion on the broadway pier on saturday, january 26, 20. From our daily whale watching reports to photos and video, this is the spot for our favorite marine mammals.
Aquarium naturalists and volunteers will be out on the open ocean twice per day through april 14, searching for whales, dolphins, sea lions, birds and a variety of other marine animals. Whale watching can be an exciting adventure so our team here at san diego sailing tours has put together a guide on what to expect when venturing out to see to see these majestic creatures. Kids go free at san diego whale watch sds first yearround whale watching company. San diego educational whale watching the official travel. The veracity of this claim is a matter of some debate, but rest assured youll be seeing the entire whale and more. If youre a lover of marine life, this whale watching excursion wont disappoint. Whale watching in southern california san diego beach. My son and i will be 1st time visitors to san diego. 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 1 or 2 hour harbor cruise from. San diego s marine life includes whales, sea lions, dolphins and harbor seals. Enjoy a sunset cruise out in the san diego bay or go whale watching in the great pacific ocean. From january through mid april each year, san pedro looks forward to the pacific gray whale migration. For the thrill of a lifetime, cruise alongside these magnificent whales in their natural environment with flagship cruises, san diegos most experienced whale watching company. Winter whale watching adventure by flagship san diego.
San diego whale watching tours san diego beach secrets. Adventure rib rides 80 harbor island dr san diego, ca whale. San diego whale watch offers the premier whale watching experience in southern california. Witness the majestic blue and grey whales migrate past the shores of southern california. Rides is located on the main dock at the sheraton marina hotel, east tower which is directly across the street from the san diego international airport. Hornblower san diego guests must check in at the ticket booth of their appointed boarding location prior to boarding the yacht. For harbor tours and whale watching, guests check in at 970 n. San diegos marine life includes whales, sea lions, dolphins and harbor seals. Our premier whale watching vessel, the marietta is also the perfect party boat. According to our partner, optimum whale migration viewing times are late december through january during the southward migration. Sightseeing tour of the san diego harbor and landmarks with commentary. Harbor sailboats offers private whale watching tours aboard our. Here at adventure rib rides, we seat 6 people per boat so you are never fighting for that seat leaning over the rail like many larger boats.
See the amazing whales and dolphins off of san diegos beautiful coast. Whether from land or at sea, san diego is one of californias best spots for whale watching. As part of our mission, the san diego natural history museum partners with hornblower cruises and events to provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience gray whale watching off the san diego coast. From the beautiful beaches to the outdoor adventures, san diego would not be the same without such an iconic ocean landscape. B street pier cruise ship terminal 1140 n harbor drive san diego, ca 92101. Go on a whalewatching expedition in san diego on this 4hour cruise guided by birch aquarium experts. Our no seasickness guarantee is unique to the whale watching industry. Centrally located near downtown san diego on harbor island. According to a certain newscaster, san diego is named after a rather intimate part of a whale s anatomy. With a maximum of 6 guests per cruise, you are sure to have the most personalized, intimate cruise. Located in the northern part of the county, it is best known as the home of the famous palomar observatory and its giant 200inch hale telescope.
To locate the whale watching in san diego just select the map tab above. Your whale watching cruise is available at an affordable price on our historic boat, the privateer. Its nearing the end of january and san diego is back in its rhythm after a long holiday break. Tripadvisor san diego winter whale watching expedition. One of our staff favorites is to go from downtown san diego through harbor island to liberty station via ebikes. San diego is a brilliantly compact city with lots to do for all cruisers couples, families or larger groups so it is worth considering adding a day or two in the city before your ship departs to extend your cruise vacation. Whether youre looking for a relaxing san diego harbor tour, a wedding at sea, a sport fishing excursion, a sunset cruise, a boatel for a unique overnight experience, or an exciting day of dolphin and whale watching, san diego bay cruises is sure to have a private yacht available to accommodate you and your guests. Even if you arent interested in exploring the city we always highly recommend arriving at least day in advance. In san diego, we also have two major seasons when we see the gray whale migration pass by us from november to may and the blue whale season from may to october. Get up close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, pelagic sea birds and migrating whales on this 3. Hornblower cruises and events has two different locations.
Hes extremely knowledgeable, funny and a great captain. Trips offer views of the san diego skyline, historic ships, sea lions, shipyards and aircraft carriers and other naval vessels. San diego sailing tours offers four hour whale watching tours with an included gourmet boxed lunch. Their passage is the longest known mammal migration measuring over 12,000 miles round trip and luckily for us san diego sailors, that puts us right in line to take in the sights. For the thrill of a lifetime, cruise alongside these magnificent whales in their natural environment with flagship cruises, san diego s most experienced whale watching company. Although we were not lucky enough to see whales that day we could comfortably enjoy the exit of the san diego bay. Whale watching in san diego the official travel resource. Whale watching in san d iego in san diego, ca is in the california beaches attractions, parks, and things to do category. Winter whale watch cruises featuring the gray whale during its migration begin on 9 december. Hornblower operates two boarding locations on the waterfront, located 12 mile apart. You see, i have my websitesan diego beach secrets, and on there, there is a list of all possible whale watching tours offered in san diego county, not orange county. San diego harbor hotel get away to our boutique style hotel on san diego harbor. Whale watching off the coronado coast coronado times. Birch aquarium naturalists narrate the tours, and guests receive gray whale fact sheets.
Whale watching in san diego aboard adventure hornblower. San diego park and cruise hotels one trip at a time. Below is a list of the nearest beaches to whale watching in san d iego. On san diego speed boat adventures harbor tour, visitors take the wheel and become captains of their own mini speed boats, following a knowledgeable guide pointing out the beauty and wildlife of san diego bay, including colonies of sea lions on point loma. Being int he bay and ocean is a terrific way to start. San diego is one of the best locations to watch whales yearround. Whale watching birch aquarium at scripps uc san diego. Local day adventures san clemente, ca san clemente inn. San diego whale days festival now closed n harbor dr. San diego s 59mile scenic drive loops its way through the citys charming neighborhoods and reveals our unique attractions and natural wonders.