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CALIFORNIA SEA LION: COMMON
The California Sea Lion is one of the most common marine mammals in the bay, both near shore and in the outer bay. They often can be seen hauled out on rocky outcroppings, islands and buoys. Adult Sea lions can weigh 800 lbs. They are very intelligent and are often seen following behind Salmon Fishing boats waiting to snatch a fish from their line.
Sea lions are very mobile on shore due to their long front flippers. They are usually the animals seen performing in marine theme parks.
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INNER BAY/CALM WATER: Sunset Cruise - 2 hours: Summer only
This longer version of our 1 hour Sanctuary Scenic Cruise includes stops listed above plus a trip along the surf line deeper into the bay to visit the WWI era cement ship "Palo Alto". Of course we always hope for a beautiful golden sunset perhaps while sipping wine or your favorite beverage on your return voyage. Fully narrated.
$25 Adults
$15 Children under 14
Buy tickets online at Zerve
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SEA OTTER: COMMON
One of the smallest of all marine mammals the Sea Otter can be found near and in the dense kelp forests of the Monterey Bay. Always sure to evoke a smile from viewers this cute fury creature finds both safety and food within the kelp. A Sea Otter will typically wrap up within the kelp leaves, which are anchored to the rocky seafloor, preventing them from drifting to sea while they sleep. Foraging for mostly shellfish the Sea Otter will use a rock to rest on their stomach while hitting the dense shell of a clam against it to reveal its meaty prize.
HARBOR SEAL: COMMON
Easily distinguishable Harbor seals have dark fur that is mottled with light spots, or light fur that is mottled with dark spots. They have short pectoral flippers and are clumsy on shore.
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INNER BAY/CALM WATER: Monterey Sanctuary Scenic Bay Cruise - 1 hour
Our best value and very popular with families, this calm water cruise offers spectacular views of our coastline and local marine life, usually including sea otters, sea lions and occasionally dolphins. Narrated stops include the Giant Kelp Forrest, Seal Island, world famous Steamer's Lane surfing spot, the beautiful Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor and an historical narration of the venerable Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Bring your camera!
$13 Adults
$9 Children under 14
Buy tickets online at Zerve
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ELEPHANT SEAL: PERIODICALLY COMMON
18 miles north of Santa Cruz, Ano Nuevo State Reserve is where Elephant seals return every winter to mate. It is rare to see them at sea. They are very deep diving feeding animals. Males have a distinct elongated snout.
STELLAR SEA LION: RARE
Theses are the largest of all pinnipeds. There is an occasional Stellar sea lion that can be seen hauled out on Seal Rock off of Santa Cruz Point.
SUN FISH (Mola Mola): COMMON
This odd circular shaped fish can be seen in summer mostly but can be seen anytime. It feeds on Plankton.
LEATHER BACK SEA TURTLE: RARE
WOW - These turtles can get 6-7' long. They can occasionally be seen feeding in the summer when the jellyfish are in.
SHARKS: FAIRLY COMMON
Blue sharks are somewhat common in the summer. White sharks occasionally can be seen at anytime. They feed on large fish and pinnipeds.
BASKING SHARK: RARE
Basking sharks can reach 25', are dark gray in color and are plankton feeders.
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Note: If you do not see a trip on a specific date you are looking for on our online ticketing page, please call us at 831-427-0230.
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Whales Watching ~
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Santa Cruz Whale Watching & Scenic Cruises
Monterey Bay at Santa Cruz, CA
Buy Tickets Online
Or Call Zerve: 800.979.3370 or 212.209.3370
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