San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watch Cruise with Legacy Whale Watch｜United States

You’ll experience one of the best San Diego whale watching tours aboard the spacious 80-foot Legacy, departing from Mission Bay just minutes from the open Pacific for faster access to whale sightings. You’ll begin spotting seabirds, sea lions, and coastal wildlife before you even leave the bay, then head offshore to watch California gray whales, humpbacks, and playful dolphins with guidance from our expert crew. You’ll also learn from San Diego Natural History Museum–certified naturalists who join every trip to share biofacts, answer questions, and bring the marine life of Southern California to life during this family-friendly 3-hour adventure.

Set sail from Mission Bay, San Diego’s ‘recreational bay’, and head to La Jolla Canyon, home to a variety of wildlife. From November to April, focus on the California Gray Whale, witnessing a fraction of its over 5,000-mile migration from the Bering/Chukchi Seas to the lagoons of Baja California, Mexico. Over 20,000 California Gray Whales make this migration annually.

During the summer, when the water is warmest, have the best chances of seeing Blue Whales. May to October generally provides a good chance of seeing Fin Whales, Humpback Whales, and Minke Whales.

Keep your eyes out for a variety of dolphin/porpoise species along with sea lions and birds. Spend time with the always entertaining dolphin species in the area and oftentimes see California Sea Lions as well. Identify and look for native and migratory land-based and sea birds.

Travel on a modern, stable, well-equipped 80 ft. fiberglass boat with two decks and ample seating. With windows throughout both decks, the boat has great views with the convenience of covered indoor seating for over 100 passengers. The boat has outside seating on the bow and elevated upper deck seating. Enjoy a well-stocked bar of snacks and beverages and 3 full-sized bathrooms.