4.9 (995) · Dana Point · By Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
Join Dana Point's top-rated whale watching tour, perfect for families and friends, featuring unique Underwater Viewing Pods.
For over 25 years, we've offered eco-friendly trips to see magnificent Blue Whales, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, occasional Orcas, and more.
Spot five species of wild dolphins, including massive pods of up to 10,000, plus sea lions, marine birds, and sharks.
Depart from Dana Point, recognized as the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World® and a certified Responsible Whale Watching partner.
Enjoy an uncrowded, high-tech catamaran experience with close-up views, expert commentary, and complimentary brownies.
✓ A licensed Captain and professional crew✓ A vessel inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard✓ Cetacean Declaration: Return for free within one calendar year if no dolphins or whales are sighted✓ Live commentary provided on board✕ Food and beverages✕ Gratuities for the crew✕ DVDs (available for purchase)✕ Souvenir photos (available for purchase)Activity Schedule
2 h 30
Your whale watching adventure begins in Dana Point, the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World® and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas.
From May to October, you might encounter the majestic Blue Whales, the largest animals on Earth. Between November and April, witness the incredible Gray Whale migration.
Throughout the year, opportunities abound to see Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, sea lions, sharks, and much more.
Various species of wild dolphins, some forming mega-pods of up to 10,000 individuals, are visible year-round.
Upon arrival, you'll find complimentary parking and a welcoming greeting from our "Dolphin Deck" team. Inform us during booking if you or a guest is celebrating a special occasion for a personalized welcome.
Relax under an umbrella with a sandwich, snacks, ice cream, a cold beverage, or hot coffee, enjoying the best views of Dana Point Harbor before being escorted to the boat. Restrooms are conveniently located nearby.
While our primary vessel is equipped with underwater pods, other boats without this feature may occasionally be used. These alternative vessels provide an equally engaging whale watching experience.
Your mobile or paper ticket will be accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
Please arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
Check-in is located upstairs at our waterfront Dolphin Deck building.
Our location is adjacent to Baby Beach and the OC Sailing & Events Center.
Please arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
Check-in is located upstairs at our waterfront Dolphin Deck building.
Our location is adjacent to Baby Beach and the OC Sailing & Events Center.
Kindly check in 45 minutes before your trip's scheduled time.
Public parking is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
IMPORTANT: Please ensure you allow sufficient time for arrival and check-in. Regrettably, we cannot delay the boat's departure or reschedule you for another trip if you arrive late.
24440 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629, États-Unis
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Service animals are permitted on board. Public transportation options are accessible nearby. This activity is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. The tour operates regardless of weather conditions; please dress appropriately. Access to the Underwater Viewing Pods involves using ladder-like steps. Individuals with disabilities or limited mobility may find this challenging. Tour timings can vary depending on the specific date. Only the Manute'a vessel features underwater viewing. Boat assignments are subject to change without prior notice, and such changes do not qualify for cancellation or refunds. Signature Safari A 2.5-hour tour focused on dolphin and whale watching. Arrive at least 45 minutes early for check-in and to enjoy the harbor views. Dress in layers, as ocean temperatures can be cool even on sunny days. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. Consider bringing a light jacket or windbreaker. Cameras are recommended to capture the incredible wildlife sightings. Inform the crew during booking if you are celebrating a special occasion. All sales are final. No refunds will be issued for cancellations.
Product code: 44596P2
Activity offered by Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Families Couples Nature enthusiasts Wildlife photographers Tourists seeking unique experiences Witness majestic whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Unique underwater viewing pods offer a different perspective. Expert narration provides insights into marine life. Eco-friendly and responsible whale watching practices. Family-friendly adventure suitable for all ages. Depart from the "Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World®".
Population 33,107 (2020)
Elevation 44 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 13° Jan 13° Feb 14° Mar 15° Apr 17° May 19° Jun 22° Jul 23° Aug 23° Sept 20° Oct 17° Nov 13° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the whale watching tour? + The tour lasts for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What types of marine life can I expect to see? + You can see Blue Whales, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, Orcas, various species of dolphins (sometimes in mega-pods), sea lions, sharks, and marine birds.
Is food and drink included on the tour? + Food and drinks are not included, but they are available for purchase on board. Complimentary brownies are provided.
What happens if I don't see any whales or dolphins? + With our Cetacean Declaration, you can return for free within one calendar year if you do not see any dolphins or whales.
Are there any accessibility concerns for the underwater viewing pods? + Entry into the Underwater Viewing Pods requires the use of ladder-like steps. Persons with a disability or limited mobility may have difficulty accessing them.
Can I bring my pet on the tour? + Service animals are allowed on the tour.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Never disappoints!
johnwQ9403XM, October 2026
Captain Dave’s never disappoints! The kids and grandkids loved it! Hundreds of dolphins, a few flying fish, and a sea lion thrashing a shark meal! Awesome!
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thanks for the high rating, John! We're thrilled you and your family were able to see some amazing wildlife on board, and we love knowing you had a fantastic time out with us yet again. Here's hoping your next adventure with us will be just as wonderful!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
A great boat tour
E1763EDthomask, October 2026
A great tour with super nice staff. Even though the whales preferred to stay underwater that day, we enjoyed the tour. The numerous dolphins at the end of the tour were worth the tour alone.
If you are looking for a relaxed tour with an authentic provider, you have come to the right place.
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thanks so much for joining us! We're thrilled you had a wonderful day out on the water with us, and while you didn't see a whale, we're glad the dolphins made up for it. We appreciate your kind words for our crew, and we love knowing you had a great trip. Here's hoping you can join us again for more dolphin and whale watching adventures if you're ever out here in California again!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great Trip At Sea
shannoncE8526RL, October 2026
Our trip adventure was absolutely wonderful! We had Gary and Alan as our crew and they treated us to a wonderful morning on the water. We found a giant pod of dolphins that we spent some time with. We were also lucky enough to watch a young, male humpback whale for quite some time. It was wonderful.
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thank you, Shannon, for taking the time to rate and review us! It warms our hearts to know your time aboard was wonderfully memorable. It's great that you were able to spend some time watching both dolphins and a humpback whale. We hope you'll be able to return to Dana Point sometime for another day of dolphin and whale watching fun!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Meh
DnandhS795VB, October 2026
Meh
Not my favorite. Wouldn’t recommend
Not a big fan of the guide
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thank you for your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that your experience didn’t meet your expectations. We’d appreciate the opportunity to learn more about what you didn’t enjoy, particularly regarding your experience with the guide. If you’re willing, please feel free to contact us directly with additional details so we can better understand your concerns and share your feedback with our team.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Many dolphins, no whale
1980TS, September 2026
No whales sighted. Of course, it also takes a bit of luck, but on the other hand, the probability of seeing a whale was probably not that bad. Since the captain and crew are experts, I had hoped they would also lead us to a whale, which would justify the price of the trip. Such an expensive boat tour, but very well organized.
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thank you for joining us! We’re glad you found your cruise to be very well organized, and we’re also sad the whales didn’t make an appearance. Whale and dolphin sightings can vary considerably from trip to trip as we observe wild animals in their natural habitat. We appreciate you coming out with us from so far away and hope you’ll have an opportunity to join us again for another chance at seeing whales with us.
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