Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

Imagine sailing out into the vast Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary, feeling the salty wind on your face and the anticipation of seeing whales breach or dolphins dart around your boat. For around $70 per person, this 2.5-hour tour offers a chance to witness some of the Pacific Ocean’s most spectacular marine life aboard one of the largest vessels in Monterey. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, this cruise combines comfort, education, and the thrill of discovery.

Two features we especially appreciate are the spacious, heated cabins with large windows—perfect for those chilly mornings or windy afternoons—and the knowledgeable marine specialist guides who bring the ocean’s stories to life. Watching whales and dolphins ride the waves from a walkaround deck adds a visceral thrill you can’t get from just reading about it. Still, one thing to consider is the weather; since the tour runs in varying conditions, dressing warmly and bringing layers makes for a more comfortable experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a boat ride; it’s for those eager to learn about marine wildlife in a relaxed setting. Families (excluding very young children), wildlife lovers, and anyone curious about the Pacific’s giants will find this an engaging outing that balances fun with education.

Key Points

• In-Depth Wildlife Viewing: Spot whales, dolphins, and sea lions in their natural habitat.
• Expert Guides: Marine specialists provide informative narration, enhancing your understanding of marine behaviors.
• Comfort & Views: Spacious, heated cabins with large windows and an outdoor walkaround deck for optimal viewing.
• Dynamic Encounters: Each trip varies; no two outings are the same, making every tour unique.
• Good Value: For $70, you receive a well-rounded experience with plenty of opportunities for close-up wildlife sightings.
• Accessibility & Flexibility: Options for morning, afternoon, or evening tours; cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: From Fisherman’s Wharf to the Open Sea

Your adventure begins at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you’ll find the brightly colored building serving as the meeting point. It’s a short walk from nearby parking, making logistics straightforward. As you check in, you might consider upgrading to the VIP Upper Deck for an additional $20—many reviews mention that the views are noticeably better from there, providing a clearer, unobstructed panorama of the water and wildlife.

Once aboard, you’ll notice the massive size of the vessel—110 feet on the Princess Monterey and 100 feet on Atlantis Monterey—offering plenty of space for everyone. The boat’s design prioritizes comfort with heated indoor cabins and large windows, so even if the weather turns chilly, you can stay warm while still enjoying excellent visibility. Onboard amenities include a bar with snacks and drinks, which you’re welcome to bring yourself. Toilets are available, adding that little extra convenience when you’re out on the water for a couple of hours.

The Journey: Into Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary

Leaving the harbor, the crew sets the tone with a friendly, informative approach. The guides are well-versed and passionate, often sharing fascinating facts about whales, dolphins, and the bay’s ecosystem. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and sense of humor—not to mention their ability to spot wildlife quickly.

The marine environment here is a haven for 34 species of marine mammals. During summer and fall, humpback and blue whales cruise through, sometimes seen breaching or spouting water. Winter and spring are prime times for gray whales, which undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal, passing close to shore. Dolphins are a regular sight year-round, often riding alongside the boat or darting in playful pods.

Wildlife Encounters: What You Might See

Every trip tends to be different, but the reviews highlight some common highlights. Many travelers have seen whales breaching, tail slapping, and spy-hopping, which is when they poke their heads above water. One reviewer recalls that “the best was the whales breaching”, a moment that can truly take your breath away.

Sea lions and seals often lounge on rocks or swim nearby, adding to the vibrant scene. The deep, nutrient-rich waters support feeding whales and dolphins, making sightings more frequent than you’d expect. Some guests have noted that “they saw a lot of whales and sea lions”, and that the crew patiently followed whales to maximize viewing opportunities.

Learning on the Water: Guides and Narration

What sets this tour apart is the expert narration. Guides like the ones praised for their deep knowledge and humor bring context to what you’re seeing, making the experience both fun and educational. Whether explaining whale migration patterns or pointing out behaviors like breaching, their insights make the time on deck more meaningful.

One review mentioned that the guide “knew a lot about the area, the ocean, the whales, etc.” and added that her “sense of humor” made the trip even more enjoyable. Such guides help turn a simple wildlife sighting into a storytelling adventure, enriching your understanding of the bay’s ecosystem.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfort & Practicalities: What to Expect

The vessel’s walkaround deck allows 360-degree views, so you can follow the action from nearly every angle. The indoor cabins keep you warm if the wind picks up, which is common in the open sea. You can bring your own snacks or drinks, so a thermos of coffee or your favorite treat can make the ride even more enjoyable.

The limited VIP seating can be purchased at check-in if you want a quieter spot or better views, though many find the regular seating sufficient. It’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for children under three, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments, mainly because of safety and comfort at sea.

The Experience in Perspective

With a typical review stating, “it was worth every penny,” the value here lies in the combination of wildlife sightings, expert guides, and comfort. While the boat can get crowded, most travelers find it more than makes up for it through the sights and stories. The price point of $70 is reasonable considering the length of the tour, the size of the vessel, and the quality of the experience.

Weather can be unpredictable, and as some reviews suggest, wrapping up warmly is advised. If you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to take precautions, but most guests report that the ride is generally smooth and enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This whale-watching cruise is perfect for families, wildlife lovers, and curious travelers eager to connect with nature in a relaxed environment. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a guided experience that combines education with the thrill of seeing wild whales in their natural habitat. If you value comfort, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see some of the ocean’s giants, this tour delivers.

The Monterey Whale Watching Tour offered by Princess Monterey is a solid choice for anyone wanting to see marine life in action without breaking the bank. The spacious vessels and large viewing areas make for a comfortable ride, even when the weather isn’t perfect. The camaraderie and knowledge of the guides elevate the experience from a simple boat trip to a memorable encounter with nature.

While no wildlife tour can guarantee sightings, the combination of rich waters, seasoned guides, and a flexible schedule makes this a worthwhile outing, particularly if you’re visiting Monterey during peak whale migration seasons. The $70 price provides good value for the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

For those who want an educational, scenic, and comfortable marine adventure, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s suitable for anyone interested in marine life, from casual travelers to dedicated wildlife enthusiasts. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your curiosity, and prepare for moments that will leave you smiling long after you return ashore.

Is the tour suitable for young children?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under three, mainly due to safety concerns at sea and the nature of the environment.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring aboard?
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. It’s also wise to dress warmly, as it can get cold out on the water, even on sunny days.

Is there an option to upgrade for better views?
Yes, VIP Upper Deck seating is available for an additional fee of $20, and many reviewers say it’s worth the extra cost for better vistas.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, typically scheduled in the morning, afternoon, or evening, depending on the day.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see whales like humpbacks, gray whales, and possibly blue whales during summer and fall, plus dolphins, sea lions, and seals.

Are toilets available onboard?
Yes, the vessels are equipped with toilets, adding convenience during the trip.

In summary, this Monterey whale-watching tour offers a well-rounded, immersive look at the bay’s incredible marine life. With its expert guides, comfortable vessel, and flexible schedule, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to connect with the ocean’s giants in a genuine, engaging way.

You can check availability for your dates here: