San Diego Whale Watching Tours

Upcoming Departures

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

Starting at $39 | 3.5 Hours | Mid-Dec. to Mid-Apr | Guaranteed sightings or your next trip free!

Whale Watching Returns December 2023

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!

Guaranteed SightingOcean Connectors logo

Young family pointing out whales

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 Whale Watching 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.

Cruising
  • 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
  • 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Boarding time 30 minutes prior.

Adult | Mon-Fri $52.00
Child | Mon-Fri Ages 4-12 | $39.00
Adult | Sat-Sun $55.00
Child | Sat-Sun Ages 4-12 | $41.25
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Before you depart

Arrive 15 Minutes Before Scheduled Departure
Arrive 15 Minutes Before Scheduled Departure
The Vessel and Interior Main Deck are Wheelchair Accessible But The Exterior Top Deck and Restrooms Are Not
The Vessel and Interior Main Deck are Wheelchair Accessible But The Exterior Top Deck and Restrooms Are Not
Sunscreen or Hat
Sunscreen or Hat
Bring a Camera
Bring a Camera
No Smoking
No Smoking
Binoculars Recommended
Binoculars Recommended
No Pets Except Service Animals
No Pets Except Service Animals
Dress in Warm Clothing in Layers
Dress in Warm Clothing in Layers
If Prone To Seasickness, Consider Medication In Advance
If Prone To Seasickness, Consider Medication In Advance

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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