We are incredibly honored to share some exciting news: San Diego Whale Watch has been voted Best Whale Watching Tour in San Diego for 2026 by the readers of San Diego Magazine!
To everyone who cast a vote, shared kind words, brought family and friends aboard, or supported us over the years—THANK YOU. This award belongs just as much to you as it does to us.
Since launching in 2008, our mission has been simple: introduce people to the incredible marine wildlife just beyond our coastline while inspiring a deeper appreciation for the ocean and the importance of protecting it. Nearly two decades later, we’ve welcomed more than 736,000 guests aboard our vessels, and every trip continues to remind us why we love what we do.
This Award Belongs to Our Crew
Behind every unforgettable whale sighting is an incredible team.
From our captains and naturalists to our deckhands and reservation staff, every member of our crew plays a role in creating memorable experiences for our guests. Many of our team members have been with us for more than five years, and several of our captains and naturalists started their careers right here as deckhands before working their way up through dedication, training, and a genuine passion for the ocean.
Their knowledge, enthusiasm, professionalism, and care for both our guests and the wildlife are what make every trip special. We couldn’t be more grateful for the team that makes San Diego Whale Watch what it is.
More Than Whale Watching
While we’re thrilled to be recognized as San Diego’s favorite whale watching company, we’re equally proud of what happens beyond our tours.
Through sustainable onboard practices, annual carbon offsetting, beach cleanups, educational field trips, participation in San Diego Climate Week, and the work of Our Future Foundation, we strive to give back to the ocean and community that have given us so much.
Last year alone, our volunteers and team helped remove thousands of pounds of trash from local beaches, and we’re excited to continue expanding our conservation efforts in the years ahead.
A Special Thank You Whale Watching Tour
Awards like this are only possible because of an amazing community, so we’d like to celebrate together.
As our way of saying thank you, we’re hosting a FREE Community Appreciation Whale Watching Tour for our supporters.
Seats are limited and reservations are required, so once registration opens, be sure to reserve your spot as soon as possible.
If the cruise reaches capacity before you can reserve a seat, don’t worry—we’ll also be offering a special Buy 3, Get One Free thank-you discount so everyone has a chance to celebrate with us. Use code THANKYOU at checkout.
From the Bottom of Our Hearts…
Being voted Best Whale Watching Tour in San Diego means the world to us because it reflects the trust and support of the community we call home.
Whether you’ve joined us once, dozens of times, or are still planning your very first adventure, thank you for being part of our story.
Here’s to more unforgettable whale sightings, breathtaking sunsets, playful dolphins, and many more years of exploring San Diego’s incredible marine ecosystem together.
We’ll see you on the water!
