During the months of December through April, visitors to San Diego have the unique opportunity to witness the migration of California gray whales during their 5,000 mile (say WHAT?!) migration from Alaska to Baja California where they birth their young.
Many of the whales travel within only a few miles of the San Diego coast and so, there are a number of opportunities to hop aboard to observe their amazing journey:
Dennis Conner’s America’s Cup Experience
Sail aboard the America, a historic replica of the world’s first America’s Cup winning ship and test out their “no sea sickness guarantee.” The long sailing yacht is perfectly suited for whale watching because of its low sleek lines, deep keel for stability (hence the no sea sickness part) and the ability to quietly approach the whales without using noisy engine power. The 4-hour whale watching excursions depart twice daily from the San Diego Maritime Museum dock at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Adventure RIB Rides
Experience a thrilling ocean safari aboard an authentic 30’ Navy SEAL Rigid Inflatable Boat (R.I.B.) for an intimate “on-the-water” whale watching adventure. A U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain will take you on a fast passed ride out in the ocean where you’ll get up close view of the migrating whales. Daily 3-hour tours depart from the Sheraton Hotel & Marina on Harbor Island at 9 a.m.
Harbor Excursion and Hornblower Cruises and Events
Enjoy naturalist led, narrative tours of San Diego Bay, plentiful indoor/outdoor seating a full galley onboard and so much more. Two 3.5-hour tours depart daily from the Harbor Excursion and Hornblower ticket booths along the downtown Embarcadero. Harbor Excursion tours depart at 9:45 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each day and Hornblower tours depart at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. each day
OEX Dive & Kayak and La Jolla Kayak
Skip the boat and enjoy the scenic La Jolla coastline during guided whale watching kayak tours. See gray whales and other fascinating marine life as you paddle along the gentle waters of La Jolla Shores, La Jolla Cove and through the fascinating Seven Sea Caves.
Enjoy!