The 4 Dana Point Whale Watching Tours That Earn Their Price

1.Dana Point Dolphin and Whale Watching with Underwater Viewing

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 788 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $99Our pick

Board a small catamaran at Dana Point Harbor for a 2.5-hour search for dolphins, whales, sea lions, and marine birds. A naturalist explains the animals and their habitat, while the Manute’a offers underwater viewing pods. Crew members including Marie, Hannah, Daelyn, and Alex have received warm praise for their care and expertise.

“We loved watching the bottlenose dolphins under water. Knowledgeable, helpful, friendly crew. They found the fin whales and gave plenty of time to watch.”

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2.Whale Watching Excursion in Dana Point

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 676 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $65Best value

Set out from Dana Point aboard a 95-foot Dana Wharf vessel for a two-hour search for whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds. Your captain provides live narration, while the enclosed cabin, outdoor decks, and onboard food and drinks let you choose your comfort level on the Pacific.

“We didn’t see whales but it was a beautiful day & calm water. We saw plenty of dolphin & seals that was beautiful.”

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

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 353 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $99

Set out from Dana Point Harbor aboard a Coast Guard inspected Zodiac for about two hours. A captain and marine naturalist, including guides such as Marie, Caitlin, Gary, and Matt, search for dolphins and whales while explaining what you see. The boat carries no more than 20 people.

“An amazing experience! Captain Marie and first mate Amanda were fun and informative. The company was thoughtful and celebrated special occasions and return guests which made for a personalized experience. I get seasick very easily but this boat was perfect. Never felt ill and it was so fun speeding over the water. We were so close to all the animals we saw. If you are on the fence, just book it. You will not be disappointed.”

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4.Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching With Underwater Viewing

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 40 reviews · 2h 30m · from $95

Join Captain Dave’s crew, including Captain Marie, Hannah, Lauren, or Andy, for a 150-minute Dana Point cruise with live marine narration, underwater viewing pods, tram nets, and a chance to see dolphins, whales, sea lions, sharks, and seabirds.

“The best Dolphin and whale watching tour I have ever been on. Fantastic experience. Not to be missed if you are in the area. Capt Marie, Andy and Hannah were superb hosts and extremely knowledgeable.”

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