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Monterey Bay Whale Watch

See Monterey Bay, California family vacation

Monterey Bay Whale Watch

Monterey Bay

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96 Fisherman's Wharf No. 1
Just Off Del Monte Avenue
Monterey, CA 93940

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Boat Tour
Boat Ride

Monterey Bay Whale Watch Description

Marine biologists come from all over the world to study the whales and dolphins in Monterey Bay, so why shouldn't you? Unlike seals and otters, though, dolphins and whales are notably shy and stay outside the bay, so the best way to see them is from a whale watching boat cruise, a number of which depart from the wharf every day. There are many companies to choose from, but we picked Monterey Bay Whale Watch — one of the first companies to offer such trips and the only one that has marine biologists on every cruise — for their experienced naturalist guides. We weren't disappointed — we were barely out of the harbor when we found ourselves smack in the middle of a pod of playful Risso's dolphins. And we got close enough to migrating gray whales to see the barnacles around their blow holes — a memorable sight.

Kid Tips

Toddlers & Pre-K: Believe me, you don't want to be chasing a toddler on one of these boats, which are basic utilitarian fishing boats with gaps between the rails. Babies in backpacks are safe, though the experience would be pretty much lost on them. (Though we did share our boat with a family that brought a baby, so they could share the experience with their excited 6- and 7-year-olds, and they seemed to be having a great time.)

Planning Notes

Go Early for the Best Experience. The seas are calmer early in the morning, making for a more comfortable trip with less chance of seasickness. There's also more likelihood you'll spot fins, flukes and spouts since they won't be as easily confused with whitecaps.

Just the Facts

Hours: Morning Trips: Four- to five-hour trips departing at 9 a.m. are scheduled every day from May 1 through Dec. 11, except for Thanksgiving. Afternoon Trips: Three- to four-hour trips departing at 2 p.m. are scheduled every day from May 1 through Nov. 30 and on Saturdays and Sundays in December, until the end of the summer/fall season.

Fees: $20-$40

Recommended Time: 2 - 4 hours