Monterey Whale Watching Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We are honored to be the #1 Whale Watching Company in Monterey Bay with a 99% success rate and offer:
Two of the largest and most comfortable boats operating in Monterey – the 110 foot Princess Monterey and the 100 foot Atlantis Monterey.
Heated cabins with large windows for easy viewing and comfort in any weather.
Indoor and Outdoor seating with a 360-degree walk-around deck.
Optional VIP Upper Deck seating is available for an additional per person charge upon check in if space is available.
Vessels exceeding all United States Coast Guard safety requirements with full inspections and certifications.
Professional Marine Biologist and Naturalists to narrate the experience.
We cannot take children under 3 years old or pregnant women on our trips
Available options
Monterey Whale Watching Tour
What's included
Restroom on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
As one of the only places in the world to whale watch year-round, Monterey Bay is abundant with a huge diversity of sea life, and is at the top of many things to do in Monterey. As a protected marine sanctuary rich with nutrients, the Monterey Bay Submarine Canyon thrives with a bounty of breathtaking wildlife including Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Gray Whales, Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, Risso Dolphins, Long Beaked Common Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, Dall’s Porpoise, Mola Mola aka Ocean Sunfish, Jellyfish, Sea Turtles, Sea Lions, Pelicans, Sea Otters and so much more!
Board the 2 largest boats in the Monterey fleet the 110ft. Princess Monterey and the 100ft Atlantis Monterey. Limited VIP upper deck seating optional upgrade for an additional charge of $20 per person at time of check in if space is available.
What's not included
We cannot take kids under 3 or pregnant women on our trips
Soda/Pop
Coffee and/or Tea
Snacks
VIP upper deck seating optional upgrade $20 per person at check in if space is available
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
277 reviews
5★
222
4★
29
3★
9
2★
6
1★
11
Tripadvisor
4.7
433 reviews
5★
354
4★
49
3★
10
2★
7
1★
13
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Can not take children under 3 years of age
Can not take pregnant women on our trips
Meeting point
PARKING INSTURCTIONS-GPS ADDRESSES TO PARKING AREAS
WATERFRONT LOT 245 WASHINGTON ST. MONTEREY
HERITAGE HARBOR PARKING GARAGE
99 PACIFIC ST. MONTEREY
You will walk down the wharf with the shops and restaurants, we are the yellow building toward the end of the wharf.
Important notes
Please check in at the Princess Monterey ticket office to receive your boarding passes. Princess Monterey Whale Watching is the bright yellow building at the end of Old Fisherman's Wharf at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure.
About Monterey & Carmel
Monterey and Carmel are coastal gems in California, renowned for their stunning natural beauty, rich marine life, and artistic heritage. This area offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal charm.
Top Attractions
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the most renowned aquariums in the world, featuring a wide array of marine life and educational exhibits.
Nature
2-4 hours
$54.95 for adults, $42.95 for children
Carmel-by-the-Sea
A picturesque town known for its fairytale-like cottages, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
A stunning coastal reserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Cannery Row
A historic waterfront district made famous by John Steinbeck's novel, featuring shops, restaurants, and museums.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, attractions vary
17-Mile Drive
A scenic drive through Pebble Beach, offering stunning views of the coastline, golf courses, and natural landscapes.
Scenic
1-2 hours
$10.50 per vehicle
Must-Try Local Dishes
Abalone
A local delicacy, often served grilled or in cioppino, a seafood stew.
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
Monterey Bay Sardines
Freshly caught and often served grilled or smoked.
Snack
Not vegetarian or vegan
Carmel Artisan Cheese
Locally made cheeses, often paired with wine and crackers.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Beach lounging
Spas
Scenic drives
Art gallery visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Peak season offers warm weather and vibrant activities, but also larger crowds and higher prices. Ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Monterey and Carmel are generally safe destinations with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Monterey Regional Airport • 5 km from Monterey
- San Jose International Airport • 110 km from Monterey
By train
Monterey Amtrak Station
By bus
Monterey Bus Station, Carmel Bus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, but schedules may be limited in the evenings and on weekends.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Monterey
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Pacific Grove
Day trips
Big Sur
40 km south of Carmel • Full day
A stunning coastal area with dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and scenic drive along Highway 1.
Santa Cruz
60 km north of Monterey • Full day
A vibrant beach town known for its boardwalk, surfing, and family-friendly attractions.
Salinas
30 km east of Monterey • Half day
A historic city known for its agricultural heritage and as the hometown of John Steinbeck.
Festivals
Monterey Jazz Festival • Mid-September
Carmel Art Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive for stunning views
- Try the famous clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls at Fisherman's Wharf
- Explore the art galleries and boutiques in Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Go whale watching in season (December to April) for an unforgettable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
