Up-Close Dolphin & Whale Watching Zodiac Adventure in Dana Point

5.0 (455 reviews) 2 hours

out of 5

455 reviews

5.0

Three whales migrate alongside rigid hull inflatable, AllsWell — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Exciting adventures with an apex predator of the ocean — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

A fast and fun wildlife adventure awaits your family aboard our zodiac-style vessels (rigid inflatable boats). This cruise of up to 20 passengers gives you a thrilling 2-hour look at Southern California’s year-round whales and dolphins. With speeds of 30 knots or more, you’ll spend less time looking for animals and more time enjoying them! Your zodiac adventure will have you incredibly close to the ocean’s surface and within arm’s reach of wildlife. At the conclusion of your cruise, you'll receive one of Mrs. Capt. Dave's famously delicious Triple Fudge Brownies. (Some folks love the brownies more than the whales!)

We are a certified Responsible Whale Watching partner with the World Cetacean Alliance located in Dana Point, CA, the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World®, and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Ages: Adults (6–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified vessel
Included: Cetacean Declaration - Join us again for free within one calendar year if you don't see any dolphins or whales
Included: Live commentary on board
Included: Licensed Captain and professional crew member

Not included

Not included: Food and drinks (available to purchase at check-in)
Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Your exhilarating adventure departs from Dana Point, the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas, and the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®. May through October you could see the largest animals on earth, magnificent Blue Whales. December through April you could witness the incredible Gray Whale migration. And throughout the year you’ll have the opportunity to see Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, sometimes Orcas (Killer Whales), and so much more. Several species of wild dolphins, some in pods numbering up to 10,000, are seen year-round. Upon arrival you’ll find free parking and a warm smile from our “Dolphin Deck” team. If you or one of your guests is celebrating a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, be sure to let us know when reserving so that we can arrange for a special greeting. Check in about 30 to 45 minutes in advance. Then relax under a blue umbrella and enjoy a sandwich, snacks, ice cream, cold beverage, or hot coffee with the best view of Dana Point Harbor, until you’re escorted to the boat. Nearby restrooms are available to use prior to boarding.

Stop 1
Dana Point Harbor
Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Please arrive 45 minutes in advance. Check-in upstairs at our waterfront Dolphin Deck building. Located next to Baby Beach and OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor (Dana Point, Orange County, California)

End point

Please arrive 45 minutes in advance. Check-in upstairs at our waterfront Dolphin Deck building. Located next to Baby Beach and OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor (Dana Point, Orange County, California)

Using your ticket

Please check in 45 minutes before trip time. Public parking is free and first-come, first-served.

IMPORTANT: Please allow ample time to arrive and check-in. Unfortunately, we cannot delay the boat's departure nor rebook you on another trip if you are late.

Minimum age is 6 years old.
Participants with head, neck, or back problems or other serious medical conditions and pregnant women are not allowed.

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

If you cancel	You get back
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.