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Whale watching in San Diego – tours by Hornblower & Flagship Cruises

Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in San Diego.

California locals and tourists worldwide love whale-watching cruises, which are entertaining and educational.

Guided by marine biologists, these tours are an excellent way to explore the beautiful marine ecosystem San Diego has to offer. 

This article shares everything you must know about whale watching in San Diego. 

Top San Diego Whale watching Tickets

# Whale watching cruise by Hornblower # Flagship’s whale watching cruise # Whale watching in San Diego on a Kayak

Table of contents

Why san diego is perfect for whale watching, no guarantee, so, what to expect, the spout (or blow), the flukes (or tail), knuckled back, whale’s footprint, breach and splash, whale watching cruise by hornblower, flagship’s whale watching cruise, whale watching in san diego on a kayak, whale watching in a sailboat, whale watching from the shore, whale watching season in san diego, best time to whale watch in san diego.

More than twenty thousand Gray Whales travel a distance of 16000 km (10000 miles) from Alaska to Baja California’s lagoons every year. 

After giving birth to their young ones and watching them grow stronger in the warmer Baja California waters, the whales journey north again in spring. 

This trip is the longest known distance any mammal migrates annually.

With more than 110 km (70 miles) of San Diego’s coastline directly in the migration path, San Diego is the perfect spot to watch these massive animals from a boat. 

Here is a drone video of whales having fun off the coast of San Diego.

This Gray Whale migration lasts from mid-December to April.

If you are in San Diego from mid-June to September, you may not be able to see Gray Whales, but you can come face-to-face with Blue Whales. 

Blue whales, the most endangered of the great whales, are found off the coast of San Diego from mid-June through September. 

The rich California coast becomes a feeding ground for up to 3000 Blue Whales during summer. 

Even though to catch a glimpse of these 100-foot-long whales, you must venture further into the sea; they are easy to spot because of the 30-foot column of water they spout in the air. 

Regular San Diego Harbor Cruises , where you get can the city’s skyline and numerous other attractions, are popular with tourists.

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What to expect during whale watching tour

Whale watching is an attempt to see some of the largest animals on Earth in their natural habitat, making it an exciting activity. 

However, knowing what to expect from the tour helps you make the most out of your experience. 

No one can predict the exact location of the whales. 

Some whale-watching tour companies’ guarantee sightings’, but they mean that if you don’t spot a whale during one of your trips, they will give you a free ticket to return another day. 

The one thing that can be guaranteed about whale watching is that every trip out into the ocean is different. 

You have a great chance of seeing a whale in action during your cruise, so don’t give up hope. 

Be outdoors, listen to the narration, and be ready to spot the below-given indicators of a whale’s presence. 

Whales breathe quickly because they can only take in air when out on the surface.

When they breathe out, warm, moist air exhaled meets the cool air at the ocean surface and creates what we call a spout (or blow).

A gray whale’s blow can spray up to 15 feet high, and each blow is visible for about five seconds. 

All whales have a pattern – they dive for 3 to 6 minutes, surface for 3 to 4 blows in a row, each around 30 seconds apart, and descend again for 3 to 6 minutes. 

When scanning the horizon for a whale, look out for this spout. 

After it has 3 to 4 blows in a row and has enough Oxygen, the whale decides to dive. 

A gray whale often displays around 4-meter (12 feet) broad fan-shaped flukes or tail just before diving. 

Image: Discoverywhalewatch.com

The weight of the tail above the whale’s body helps gain momentum for the deep dive. 

If the whale is close enough and there is enough light, you can spot the Gray Whale’s back during and after the blow. 

Image: Steve Zabel

Its skin is black or gray and shiny because of the water. You can spot the knuckled ridge along the spine if you watch closely.

After a whale goes underwater, it leaves an elongated, smooth oval of calm water known as the footprint.

Image: Aquarium.ucsd.edu

Since seeing the whales beneath the surface is often impossible, this ‘footprint’ helps people track them without seeing them. 

Once in a while, Gray Whales hurl themselves out of the water and plunge back with a tremendous splash.

The act of getting out of the water is called ‘Breaching’.

If you are lucky, other whales nearby may try to copy the first whale, and you may witness a spectacle. 

Hornblower’s whale-watching tour in San Diego is four hours long and is led by an expert local guide. 

Besides spotting whales, sea lions, dolphins, and harbor seals during the cruise, you also get to see famous San Diego landmarks.

During the tour, you will also learn about marine life from expert captains and whalers.

The ship has outdoor and indoor seating, and besides the narration, you can also check out a video documentary.

Departure: The cruise departs from 970 North Harbor Drive . Time: You must report at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. Requirement: Coast Guard regulations require a photo ID upon boarding.

Cost of Cruise

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$64 Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$48

Flagship Cruises is San Diego’s local company and has been owned by a family for 100 years. 

Ocean experts lead the 3.5 hour long Flagship Cruises’ whale watching tour in San Diego.

The two-story whale-watching yacht has indoor and outdoor seating and 360-degree views.

This cruise also offers free wifi to its patrons all through the trip.

Departure: The cruise departs from 970 North Harbor Drive . Time: Report at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. Requirement: Coast Guard regulations require a photo ID upon boarding.

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$55 Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$41

Many tourists wonder if they can see Dolphins during their whale-watching cruise. It is common to spot Dolphins in the San Diego Bay area throughout the year. 

Yes, it is possible to go whale watching on a Kayak. 

You start the 90-minute tour by kayaking through La Jolla’s Ecological Reserve and Seven Sea Caves. 

A certified trained tour guide takes you through San Diego’s Marine Protected Area, home to various fish, birds, dolphins, turtles, sea lions, and whales. 

It is usual to spot harmless leopard sharks in the summer and fall months. You are likely to find Gray Whales in their migration during the winter.

Tour Price for 2 Participants : US111

Tourists who prefer a more private whale-watching experience opt for the sailboat. 

During the 3-hour sailing tour, you discover the San Diego Bay area and look for local wildlife, including seals, whales, and dolphins.

Unlimited beer, white wine, non-alcoholic drinks, and snacks are provided throughout the cruise.

If you forget your sunscreen and sunglasses, the sailboat offers spares. 

They also provide jackets, hats, and blankets if it gets chilly during the tour.

Sunset Sail Tour Price: US$238 (for 2 participants)

Day Sail Tour Price: US$258 (for 2 participants)

Not all whale watching needs to be from a cruise. 

San Diego has a few great spots, such as Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Cabrillo National Monument, Torrey Pines State Reserve, etc., to view the grey whale migration from the shore. 

All the locations offer expansive views of the Pacific Ocean.

However, a cruise is the best way to see blue whales as they stay farther at sea.

The best time of the year to go whale watching in San Diego is from mid-December to April, which coincides with the Gray Whale migration.

With more than 20,000 Gray Whales migrating through California waters, your chances of spotting them are high. 

Besides the Gray Whales, you can spot Humpback Whales, Orcas, Fin Whales, and Minke Whales this season. 

Early in the season, whales swim closer to the coast, so the whale cruises only sail out a maximum of 8 km (5 miles) into the ocean. 

When the whales swim back to Alaska, the yachts must sail as far as 20 km (12 miles) from the coast. 

A milder whale season exists from mid-June through September, when you can spot Blue whales.

Whales are active all day (and night!), so any time is a good time to go on a whale-watching tour in San Diego. 

However, we recommend a sunrise or sunset whale-watching cruise if you are looking for the best scenic light for taking photographs. 

Out in the ocean, the best overhead light is from 11 am – 3 pm, which results in beautiful blue waters in your photographs. 

Sources # Sdwhalewatch.com # Sandiego.org # Flagshipsd.com # Cityexperiences.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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This article was researched & written by

Sri Venkat Mamidi

Sri Venkat Mamidi finds staying in one place boring. He travels to learn about different people, cultures, beliefs, religions, and other things he doesn't know yet. For him, traveling is not about escaping the daily routine but finding out who he really is. Favorite Cities: New Orleans, Budapest, Cape Town.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Whale & Dolphin Watching 3.5 Hour Ocean Adventures on the Hornblower Cruises

• Price Range: Free - $43
• Attire: Casual
• Good for Groups: Yes
• Good for Kids: Yes
• Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Posted December 14, 2007 by Barry Berndes

$5 OFF COUPON FOR WHALE WATCHING! VALID FOR UP TO SIX ADULT BOOKINGS – CODE SD5D

Don’t miss taking a whale and dolphin excursion out to see the migrating whales coming down the coast of California from Alaska. They are on their way to the warm waters of Mexico to mate and give birth to baby whales.  Being the largest mammals on earth, this is one adventure not to miss.  Be sure to bring your camera!

Boarding is at Pier 2 at 970 North Harbor Dr. at 9:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online or at the ticket office at the foot of the pier. The cost per person may vary. See below.

Hornblower Cruises and Events offers the best venue according to the thousands of people who have taken this excursion before. Plus, Hornblower Cruises and Events is so sure that you’ll see a whale up close that they offer a FREE boarding pass for another day if you don’t see a whale.  So you have nothing to lose. The whale watching season is from December through April.

A big plus is that Hornblower Cruises and Events have teamed up with The San Diego Natural History Museum, which now includes a live narration that includes scientific stories and fun facts about the marine life that they encounter. Additionally, onboard every vessel, expert naturalists from the San Diego Natural History Museum help point out whale sightings to the guests. Plus, they are happy to answer any questions spectators may have about what they are viewing.

To make their offer even sweeter is that they also offer a  $5 off discount coupon in the SAN DIEGAN online and in print.  You’ll board at their private easy-to-find dock at 1800 North Harbor Dr. on the Embarcadero. A good landmark to look for in locating the pier is that it’s located across the street from the big tall San Diego County Administration Building.

The Hornblower Cruises in San Diego are gearing up for this year’s whale watching season, set to begin in December and running through April. After a spectacular whale watching season last year, the Hornblower is expecting an outstanding turnout of marine life again this year. It’s an event one that should not be missed. Over the course of last year’s whale watching season, spectators on Hornblower’s boats saw almost 1000 whales and over 120,000 dolphins. Hornblower’s whale watching cruises depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Gray whale and dolphin watching are December through April with departures at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily. Tours are three-and-a-half hours long and include a video and whale exhibits featuring fossils. The cost for adults is ($43) weekdays and ($48) weekends for adults; seniors and military receive a ($2) discount. The cost for children 4-17 years of age is ($20.5) on the weekdays and ($23) on the weekends. Children under 3 years of age are admitted free.  Reservations are recommended. And prices are subject to change without notice.

Blue whale watching is every day June to September from 8:45 a.m.– 1 p.m. and the cost for adults is ($65). The good news is that whale sightings are guaranteed or receive a “whale check” for a FREE trip. Be sure to use their discount coupon and save $5.

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PassPort to San Diego

LOCAL LIVING RESOURCE for Residents, Visitors & Newcomers

The Passport Blog

Hornblower whale-watching cruises make a splash.

May 1, 2022 by Cathy Hendrie

Cathy Hendrie PassPort to San Diego

One of the great experiences in San Diego is whale-watching season. California gray whales migrate from their summer feeding grounds in the North Pacific and Bering Sea to their winter breeding grounds in the warm, shallow lagoons of Baja California and trek back north again. Passing by San Diego, their round-trip journey moves them through 12,500 miles of coastline.

Curious to witness this longest-known mammal migration, I boarded a yacht with Hornblower Cruises & Events, which offers whale and dolphin-watching excursions December through April. My afternoon began with happy visitors and a smiling welcome from the captain and first officer.

Not one but three levels on the boat offered places to relax. Most passengers chose the top sundeck for bird’s-eye views, though a climate-controlled indoor level was available. We set sail and were soon learning about San Diego Bay history and landmarks like the USS Midway Museum, Cabrillo National Monument and Coronado Bay Bridge. We also floated by sea lions sunning themselves on channel markers, marine birds, and other neat marine creatures.

Once out to sea beyond Point Loma, the captain — who seemed to have a knack for spotting the whales — steered us toward a pod of them frolicking and diving. Naturalists pointed to them as they came up for air, spouting water — or “blowing off steam” like a car radiator as one docent explained it — and then dove back down, their whale flukes seemingly waving “hello.” Passengers listened and watched intently, thrilled to get so close to these graceful creatures while naturalists answered their impromptu questions: Do they travel alone or in pods? How long does it take before they come up for air again? How much do they weigh? We learned that they swim individually or in groups, that their dives average 5 minutes and that they weigh 30-40 tons, but are still much smaller than their blue whale cousins, the largest animal on the planet.

Between whale viewings, guests enjoyed expert narration from the captain and first officer, all while taking in the fresh air, coastal scenery and snacking on food and drink available on board. Everyone agreed that being in such close proximity to the whales was a remarkable experience to treasured.

Back in the bay, the narration continued, this time on the magnificent downtown San Diego skyline and assorted seabirds. Somehow the 3-1/2 hour adventure was close to coming to an end, though great memories had just begun.

Back on land, I checked out Hornblower’s other cruise offerings, which range from a narrated harbor tour or a sunset dining cruise, Sunday Champagne Brunch Cruises, Sights & Sips Sunset Cruises (May-October), Blue Whale Watching Adventures (summer), Full-Moon Dinner Cruises and many with holiday themes.

But my mind floated back to my afternoon on the sea and the world just beneath the water’s surface. My Hornblower cruise had been meaningful and memorable thanks to an experienced staff and San Diego Natural History Museum docents passionate about whale-watching. This is a wonderful activity for anyone — solo travelers, couples and/or families. Hop on a Hornblower cruise and discover this adventure for yourself!

Whale-watch tours run through April 24, 2016, and depart daily at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and whale sightings are guaranteed. If a whale is not seen, guests receive a pass good for another whale-watching cruise (valid for this season only, December 2015-April 2016) or Harbor Cruise from Hornblower San Diego.

Reservations are required. To purchase tickets, call (619) 686-8715 or visit https://www.hornblower.com/port/overview/sd+whalewatching .

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San Diego Whale Watching Tours

Upcoming departures, san diego whale watching cruise, whale watching returns december 2024 - stay tuned for schedule updates.

San Diego is among the world's top destinations for viewing marine wildlife. During whale watching season, mid-December through April, more than 20,000 gray whales 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 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.

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

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 ranks among the world's most incredible places for viewing marine wildlife. Between December and April, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate along our coast. 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.

Flagship's history traces back to the world's first whale watching cruise—right here in San Diego in 1955. Gain a deeper understanding of the ocean ecosystem 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.

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

Tours depart twice daily aboard our comfortable, two-story whale watching yacht, with spacious open-air sundeck, multiple restrooms and free guest WiFi.

Flagship's whale watching cruises are educational and fun for the whole family. The incredible connection with nature will leave a lasting impression. Reservations recommended.

Before you depart

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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The Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching in San Diego

Every year over 20,000 Pacific gray whales travel between 10,000 and 15,000 miles roundtrip from Alaska’s chilly Chukchi and Bering Seas to the warm lagoons of Baja, California, December to mid-April. The lengthiest migration of any mammal on the planet, San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline is right along their path, making it one of the best places to watch them on their incredible journey.

As we’re currently in the midst of the season, there is no better time to learn everything there is to know about these magnificent creatures from their history, appearance, and habits to the best viewing spots and tours. Here is everything you need to know about whale watching in San Diego.

A Quick Look Back

There are two populations of gray whales that make this trek past San Diego each year – the Eastern North Pacific and the Western North Pacific. Both populations were nearly annihilated during the mid-19 th century and again in the early 20 th century due to overhunting. Their numbers were reduced from thousands to hundreds in both instances.

Though they were described as the “devil fish” by commercial fisherman due to their reputation for fighting back and overturning boats, it wasn’t until the 1940s when they stood a fighting chance at survival. The International Whaling Commission (IWC) crafted a worldwide agreement that provided them with full protection.

Over the next 80 years they managed to replenish their numbers to between 19,000 and 23,000, nearly their original population. Scientists believe they managed to avoid total extinction both times due to their ease of finding mates. They frequently gather in little lagoons, a factor that also made their slaughter an easy task.

Today, gray whales remain fully protected by law, and tourists who have had the opportunity to view them in Mexico’s breeding grounds regard them as friendly and curious.

How to Identify a Gray Whale

As their name suggests, gray whales feature mottled gray skin, tapered heads, and massive, but sleek, bodies. They do not have dorsal fins; however, they have a dorsal hump with six to 12 knuckles that extend into their flukes (tails).

Adult gray whales can reach up to 45 feet in length with a weight of up to 33 tons. Calves are typically 15 feet at birth and weigh one ton. Though not scientifically confirmed with complete accuracy, they are believed to have a life span of anywhere between 55 and 80 years.

A Closer Look at Their Identifiers and Behaviors

• Thar She Blows – When warm, damp air breathed out of the whales’ lungs meets the cold air at the ocean’s surface, what is referred to as a spout or blow is created. It’s essentially that big gust of water you see shooting out of the “blow” hole on top of their heads. It can typically reach a height of fifteen feet and can be seen for about five seconds. This happens every three to six minutes after they’ve returned to the surface from their deep dives. They do this three to five times each time they surface, separated by 30-50 seconds.
• Knuckled Back & Footprint – When you are close enough to a whale and the lighting is just right, it is possible for you to get a glimpse of the whale’s back after it blows. It’s typically black or gray, shiny, and has a rough knuckled raised area along its spine. After revealing a shot of their back, they’ll submerge and you will notice an elongated, flat, oval of tranquil water referred to as a footprint in the area where the whale was spotted.
• The Tails (Flukes) – Before whales make each deep dive, they often display their 12-foot-wide tails. These flukes have no bones and are only connected to the whales’ tail muscles and body by a row of tendons. The weight of their tails is used to help them deep dive, so you’ll be able to spot them surfacing right before they go under the water.
• Breach & Splash – Though scientists don’t know the exact reason for this characteristic, gray whales are known to occasionally heave themselves out of the water before plunging back in with an astounding splash. This is known as breaching and it’s truly one of the most exciting and exhilarating sights to behold. So much so that sometimes other whales in the area will imitate this behavior, so be on the lookout for their cousins giving it a try.

Where Do They Come from, Where Do They Go?

You might be asking yourself why gray whales make such a lengthy trip every year traveling from Alaska to Mexico, and back again. The answer is a simple one, warmer waters are better for mating and calving. Female gray whales meet up in the warm lagoons in Baja, California, to give birth to their babies, and males come to the lagoons to mate with females. The mothers and their calves remain in these warm waters for the spring to ensure the calves gain enough strength and wherewithal to endure the lengthy journey back home to the chilly waters of Alaska.

Whale Watching Boat Tours

The most common way to go whale watching in San Diego is via one of the many boat tour companies located near Point Loma , the San Diego Bay, the downtown Harbor, and La Jolla Cove. They offer up-close-and-personal experiences with these beautiful creatures, many of which can last up to 3.5 hours.

Legendary Hornblower Cruises feature an informational story provided by an onboard naturalist describing the marine life you’ll see along the way. Each of these yachts offers an abundance of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a full bar and a snack bar. During the cruise you’ll typically spot gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals, and a variety of other marine life.

San Diego Whale Watch is another popular whale-watching boat company with positive ratings on review sites.

If you don’t manage to spot a gray whale on your first trip out, don’t fret. Many of these companies offer up a free trip when this happens, ensuring you’ll still get the chance to see these majestic creatures.

Whale Watching Kayak Tours

Another popular way to go whale-watching is strictly for thrill seekers. La Jolla Cove kayak tours offer kayak whale-watching. There are several tour companies in this area that provide these encounters. It’s one of the most intimate ways to experience the migration of gray whales. Tours take place daily, weather permitting.

As this is the most up-close-and-personal whale-watching experience there is, you’ll want to brush up on safety tips so you don’t find yourself in a precarious or illegal position. Lucky Sol Sailing provides some excellent tips to ensure you stay safe while out on the water.

Whale Watching on Land

While boat and kayak excursions are among the most popular ways to go whale-watching in San Diego, they are not the only option. If you prefer to stay dry with your feet comfortably planted on the ground, there are several amazing lookouts that provide excellent views of the gray whale migration path. Here are the top areas to spot a gray whale in San Diego.

• Cabrillo National Monument – The western overlooks at this seaside oasis offer some of the most incredible vistas and best opportunities to see gray whale. The old Point Loma Lighthouse and the park’s Whale Overlook provide the best viewing any time of day. Gray whales swim 24 hours so it’s easy to spot them, especially if you have binoculars. If you don’t have your own, the Visitor Center at the park sells them during whale season.
• Torrey Pines State Reserve – Situated on the bluffs above Torrey Pines State Beach, the Torrey Pines Reserve features 1,750 miles of gorgeous hiking trails, indigenous wildlife, and of course the legendary Torrey Pine trees. Its magnificent coastal wilderness coupled with mild family-friendly trails makes it one of the best spots to whale and dolphin watch. The 1.4-mile Razor Point Trail and ¾-mile Beach Trail are the best bet to catch a glimpse of the migration. Both trails hug the cliffs, never straying too far from water views. Feel free to wait for a sighting from one of the benches along the way.

Where to Look

The Cabrillo National Monument and Torrey Pines State Reserve offer the best chance at spotting whales during the spring migration, however, you may spot them almost anywhere along the San Diego coastline. Since they are moving south to their breeding grounds in mainland Mexico, you should look west toward the San Diego Bay.

Gray whales move at a steady clip, roughly five miles per hour. While some will swim close to shore, most stay out about three-quarters of a mile out from shore in the region that spreads from the kelp beds. In late spring, they migrate back north to Alaska, but they are typically too far out to spot from the park and reserve, so it’s best to take a boat tour during this time.

What to Expect

If you do spot a whale, keep in mind that they are migrating south, so once you get their location you can expect they will resurface again to the south. After you watch a single gray whale for a bit, you’ll be able to pick up on their specific breath rhythm and dives making it easy for you to figure out where they will surface next.

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers some excellent guidelines for what to expect when whale watching. For instance, gray whales commonly travel alone or in pods of two and three. Occasionally you’ll see a large group traveling together during the peak of the migration season which is now (mid-January), so keep your eyes peeled.

Whale Watching Doesn’t End in the Spring

Gray whale watching excursions tend to be over by mid-April, but that doesn’t mean whale watching ends. In fact, you’ll just be rewarded with a different type of whale-watching experience from spring to summer – that of the elusive blue whales.

The largest creatures on earth, blue whales are considered the most endangered of the great whales, but due to an influx of krill found in Southern California waters, they’ve become easier to spot off our stunning coastline. Thousands of them migrate to our waters every spring and summer to feed off the large amount of krill.

The best time to spot blue whales is between mid-June and September, but there are occasional spottings here and there beginning in March.

These incredible mammals give away their location by spouting a 30-foot-tall column of water from their blow holes, which can be seen from miles away. With that said, they typically swim farther out than their cousins, the gray whale, so it’s best to book a boat excursion instead of trying to view them from the shore.

Additionally, you’ll find finback whales, minke whales, humpback whales, and other interesting whale breeds, as well as dolphins and other marine life in the waters during this time.

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Whale Watching

Join us for a whale of a time.

As part of our mission to inspire in all a respect for nature and the environment, the Museum has partnered with City Cruises anchored by Hornblower for more than a decade to provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience gray and blue whale watching off the San Diego coast. Join the Museum Whalers, museum-trained volunteer naturalists, on one of these adventures. You’ll stay cozy and comfortable with both indoor and outdoor seating, a snack bar featuring hot food and a full bar.

Summer Season: Blue Whales

Blue whales, the largest mammal and possibly the largest animal to ever inhabit Earth, can be spotted swimming and feeding off the coast of California during the summer months, typically from June through September. Join the Museum Whalers on a breathtaking experience on the open ocean to see these magnificent creatures aboard a large, comfortable yacht. More.

Winter Season: Gray Whales

Every year from December through April, gray whales pass through San Diego’s coastal waters on their way to and from their breeding grounds. Gray whales spend the summer months in the Bering and Chukchi Seas, and then leave for the breeding lagoons along western Baja California and off southern Sonora and Sinaloa, Mexico. The gray whale makes the longest migration of any mammal on earth traveling 10,000-12,000 miles each year. More.

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We continue to see a large number of Gray Whales including some incredible mother-calf interactions. We’ve also enjoyed many sightings with whales all around the Adventure Hornblower. To date, we’ve spotted 315 Grays during the current season. See our updated Sightings Reports at https://sandiegowhalewatching.com/

January 23, 2019

Morning cruise.

Sightings: 3 Gray Whales, 50+ Common Dolphins

A gorgeous sunny, calm day on the water. We spotted 3 Gray Whales that were headed south including one that fluked along with about 50 Common Dolphins.

Afternoon Cruise

Sightings: 6 Gray Whales, 150+ Common Dolphins

A beautiful sunny day with a slight cool breeze made for a fabulous outing where we first sighted a northbound Gray Whale that was a bit elusive. Next, Captain Eric decided to change directions and headed south. We spotted several spouts in the distance and as we near the vicinity we found a southbound Gray whale. The whale’s behavior was unusual as it spent such a short time at the surface. We headed south as we saw 5 more spouts with a possible cow and calve combo. We did observe another Gray and, within a short distance, yet another Gray Whale that came up very close to bow of ship. Guests aboard could even hear its spout and see its tail flukes clearly under the water. Whale spouts seemed to be everywhere! We also encountered 150 Common Dolphins that were attracted to the Adventure Hornblower. What a great day whale watching!

January 24, 2019

Sightings: 5 Gray Whales, 5 Pacific White-sided Dolphins, 200+ Common Dolphins

A beautiful day to be out searching for whales on the Adventure Hornblower. We spotted 5 southbound Gray Whales along with some Pacific White-sided Dolphins and a big herd of Common Dolphins. Visitors joined us from London, Mexico, Ireland, Pittsburgh and Boise, Idaho.

Sightings: 7 Gray Whales, 50+ Common Dolphins

A few clouds rolled in that produced some pleasant light winds for our afternoon cruise. Captain Mike took us out into what some of us call “whale soup”. We enjoyed great views of 7 southbound Gray Whales including a “Kodak moment” of a tail fluke in front of Los Coronados. A group of Common Dolphins completed our excellent afternoon trip.

January 25, 2019

Sightings: 4 Gray Whales, 10 Common Dolphins, 5 Bottlenose Dolphins

We had exceptional weather and conditions – warm, sunny, not too much wind, small swell, and great visibility. We saw 10 common dolphins early on and enjoyed watching them swim with us. We saw 5 Gray Whales, including some breaching! Towards the end we saw Bottlenose Dolphins as well. Magnificent day at sea!

Sightings: 5 Gray Whales, 3 Common Dolphins

The afternoon still had exceptional conditions and visibility! We saw 4 Gray Whales with lots of fluking. We also saw 3 Common Dolphins. It was such a pleasure to spend the afternoon with such an enthusiastic, curious, friendly crowd, with guests from the Netherlands, England, and several US states.

January 26, 2019

Sightings: 7 Gray Whales, 5 Pacific White-sided Dolphins, 25 Common Dolphins

A gorgeous calm, sunny day. We headed west then south out of the bay and spotted our first Gray Whales near the border. We had close looks at one whale that was swimming slowly and fluked several times. This whale had a prominent scar on its dorsal that was filled with yellow-orange whale lice. While watching this whale, two more popped up close by on the other side of the boat. After watching these whales for a while, it was time to head back. On the way, we encountered a trio of Gray Whales that were exhibiting courtship behavior-swimming in a zig-zag manner and rolling on their sides. One even tossed its flukes high in the air.

Sightings: 6 Gray Whales

A sunny and slightly breezy afternoon. We spotted another 6 Gray Whales during the afternoon.

January 27, 2019

Sightings: 11 Gray Whales

Beautiful skies and calm waters made for a beautiful day. We spotted a juvenile Gray Whale as soon as we entered the ocean and four separate pods for a total of 11 Gray Whales for the morning cruise.

Sightings: 2 Gray Whales, 2000+ Common Dolphins

Another warm sunny day with calm waters. Passengers were very excited over the spectacular jumps and acrobatics of a large herd of Common Dolphins! Two Gray Whales were spotted this afternoon. The first in the harbor and the second off Point Loma. The second Gray Whale approached the yacht multiple times!

January 28, 2019

Another fantastic day with 11 Gray Whales spotted in different groupings this morning.

Unbelievable day out whaling in our beautiful Pacific Ocean! Our day started with a cool breeze plus a few high clouds as the Adventure Hornblower made its way out of the San Diego with smooth sailing. Captain Mike steered our ship southward when we came upon two very large adult Gray Whales. Guests aboard could see the whales very distinct heart shaped blows and we stayed with the pair for a while. Both whales showed their unique 12 foot tails which was definitely a “WhoHoo!” moment for guests. We then turned westward & found 4 more whales on all sides of the boat. As we whalers like to call this, “whale soup,” for the abundance of whales in the area. We saw a cow- calf pair, plus 2 more Gray Whales that showed us awesome tail flukes. We also saw more spouts in the distance. As Captain Mike headed back to the entrance of the bay we saw another pair of adult whales that demonstrated a zigzag behavior along with a pod of 150 Common Dolphins. One last surprise was a small raft of 5 to 8 sea lions. What an absolute STELLAR Day aboard the Hornblower!

January 29, 2019

Sightings: 1 Gray Whale

A foggy morning made a finding whales a challenge. Captain Mike did spot a Gray Whale that eluded us in the fog.

Sightings: 3 Gray Whales, 500+ Common Dolphins

The fog lifted and we enjoyed a gorgeous afternoon. We first spotted a solitary Gray Whale, then were able to watch a mother-calf pair. Our afternoon was capped off by a school of more than 500 Common Dolphins.

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The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

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There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don’t need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren’t like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise , you’ll want to sign up for a tour in most if not all of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You’ll be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter.

In Alaska, many of the biggest “attractions” — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you’ll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler  

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn’t just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer’s “Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call” guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I’ve tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I’ve also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska’s spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you’re thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

• Get up in the air . It’ll be expensive. We’re talking $250 or more per person. But there’s nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
• Don’t miss the whales. Even if you’re not a big wildlife person, you’ll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
• Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don’t-miss sight. It’s everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a place where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don’t have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It’s just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person, round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but … it is what it is). If you have a few people, you’re probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it’s not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you’ll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There’s a creek there, too, where I’ve sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you’re just hoping you don’t get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren’t devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you’re a craft beer fan, like me , you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It’s made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street, along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It’s the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle  

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it’s all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. Many of the tour operators you’ll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you, at the same price . Shopping around isn’t necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America  is a part-owner of Skagway’s big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I’ve had some luck with that over the years. It’s hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I’ve listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you’ll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. That said, different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I’ve used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line  

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $669.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska’s most iconic experiences.

It’s also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process. That’s a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I’ll tell you this: I don’t regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you’ll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $189.95

If it’s Alaska’s famous humpback whales that you want to see, you’ll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you’ll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips  

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

If you’re like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don’t let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It’s a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that’s the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They’ll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement) plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don’t need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn’t have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you’ll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $149.95

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I’m a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn’t going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area’s classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise  

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you’ll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it’s well worth the money. Indeed, it’s one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you’ll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you’ll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You’ll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you’ll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike: a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you’ll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $299.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

There’s nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you’re going to do a floatplane ride, there’s nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You’ll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that’s so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it’s not too “misty” to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It’s definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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