Rates & Seasons

WHALE WATCHING (3-4 hours) Year Round

Adult $65

Child $47 (age 4-13)

Infant (3 & Under) FREE

$2/passenger Port District fee on all trips.

Whale, Dolphin, & Sea Life Excursions 3-4 hours / OUTER BAY

December through April

(Private Charters year round)

This trip mostly focuses on the annual migration of the California Gray Whale. Approximately 20,000 whales pass by the Santa Cruz coast south and then north again in a 5-month period. Peak migration usually occurs mid January and mid March.There is also an increased chance of spotting Killer whales in March, April, and May.

Whale, Dolphin, & Sea Life Excursions 3-4 hours / OUTER BAY

May through November

(Private Charters year round)

This trip focuses mostly on the Humpback whale. The local herd comes to Monterey Bay and the central coast for seasonal feeding. They feed on anchovies, sardines, and krill (shrimp like crustaceans). There is also an increased change of spotting Blue whales in summer and Fall.

All of our whale and sea life tours will try to include as much marine life as possible. Time available, sea conditions, distance from shore, location and diversity of marine life on any given day is unpredictable and quiet variable. Every trip is different.

An 8% gratuity will be collected at check-in for all groups of 10 or more.

Marine Wildlife Encounters (2 Hours)

Adult $48

Child $31 (age 4-13)

Infant (3 & Under) FREE

2 Hour Trips Late Spring through Late Fall

Come view the beautiful Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary aboard Velocity or Legacy! This trip focuses on viewing the abundant marine wildlife that inhabits our nearshore waters of northern Monterey Bay. Depending on the time of year your trip may include sightings of several species of Seals & Sea Lions, Sea Otters, Dolphins, marine birds, and possibly even great white sharks or whales! Trips are led by Marine Biologists and expert Naturalists. Historical points of interest are narrated by your captain during this 2 hour trip.

Our Coast Guard Certified vessels feature a snack bar and a restroom. All of our tours have a Marine Naturalist on board that will provide fascinating insights on these Apex predators of the sea!

An 8% gratuity will be collected at check-in for all groups of 10 or more.

SCENIC BAY CRUISE (1 hour)

Monterey Sanctuary Scenic Bay Cruise 1 hour / INNER BAY-CALM WATER:

Adult $28

Child $18 (age 0-13)

Summer Only

(Private Charters year round)

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 Forest, 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!

4th of July (3 hours): Includes Food & Cash bar

Adult $75.00

Child $60.00 (age 0-13)