Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE FOR SAN DIEGO WHALE WATCH?
We do not have a minimum age requirement for our passengers!
I DID NOT RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION EMAIL. AM I CONFIRMED?
Please call the office at (619) 542-9931.
ARE WHEELCHAIRS ALLOWED ON BOARD?
All guests, including those with disabilities or use a wheelchair, must be able to transfer into and out of the boat by themselves or with the assistance of a member in their party.
DO YOU ALLOW ALCOHOL ON BOARD?
We do not allow guests to bring alcohol on board.
SHOULD I BOOK MY TICKET IN ADVANCE?
We suggest making a reservation, prior to the day you would like to go whale watching. Our tours can fill up quickly, and there is no way for us to guarantee you a spot unless a reservation is made.
DO YOU OFFER GROUP DISCOUNTS?
We offer a few specials, including group discounts. Give us a call at (619) 542-9931 for specific pricing, as it will vary depending on the group.
YOUR SCHEDULE DOESN'T EXTEND FAR ENOUGH
Our schedule is posted a few months in advance. As soon as the schedule set it will be posted and available for booking.
IS THERE PARKING?
We have a few parking options for San Diego Whale Watch:
- Free street parking! Anywhere along the street on Quivira Rd. is free, but as always please mind the applicable City signs and timings.
- $5 parking is available at the Hyatt Mission Bay. Please park your vehicle in "self parking" only. Ask for a validation when you check in at the Ticket Booth to receive the $5 parking voucher.
- We also recommend using an app-based car service such as Uber or Lyft
- Please remember any lots have the ability to tow and you will see signs posted that specifically state "No Whale Watching Parking".
MY VOUCHER THAT I PURCHASED HAS EXPIRED. DO I NEED TO PURCHASE A NEW ONE?
We accept expired vouchers. If your voucher code is not working to book your reservation, please give us a call at (619) 542-9931and we can assist you in making your reservation.
YOUR WEBSITE ISN'T ALLOWING ME TO BOOK
Please call the office at (619) 542-9931
CAN I CHANGE THE DATE OR TIME ON MY RESERVATION?
Yes, you can change your trip date and time up to 24 hours before your scheduled trip time. If you make a change within 24 hours of your scheduled departure you can still change it, but you will incur a change fee of $5 per person.
Please call the office at (619) 542-9931.
WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE TO THE BOAT?
We require guests to check in 45 minutes prior to departure to ensure they do not miss the boat. It is recommended that you treat all offshore boating excursions in the same manner as you would a plane flight. Once the boat leaves the dock we cannot turn around!
WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME AND WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
We suggest bringing a camera and an extra layers of clothes, such as a light jacket. The temperature on the water is about 10-15 degrees cooler than it is on land and it can get pretty chilly while the boat is underway. Also, you will want to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. We operate on a moving platform so heels are not the best choice!
I HAVE A RE-RIDE VOUCHER. HOW DO I MAKE A RESERVATION USING THIS?
There is no way to redeem a re-ride voucher online at this time. Please give us a call at (619) 542-9931 and we can assist you in booking your reservation.
DO YOU ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS ON BOARD?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET SEASICK?
Although an uncommon occurrence, it happens! We will do everything in our power to make you comfortable; however, the best offense is a good defense. Prior to your trip, take seasickness pills (we sell them aboard the boat, in case you forget) and get a good night’s rest. If you start to feel sick you should stay outside, near the stern (back) of the boat where it’s more stable. Find a spot on the horizon and keep staring at it to help regain your coordination. Nibble on some plain crackers and drink some ginger ale. If none of this helps, and you are about to lose your lunch, just lean over the railing and feed the fish (go for distance please!) Please do NOT use the bathrooms. If we hit a swell and you hit your head on the toilet or sink, our crew will have difficulties getting to you to administer first aid. Our crew is here to help, so if you aren’t feeling 100%, let us know. We will do everything we can to make your trip as enjoyable as possible! All crew members are first aid and CPR certified.
CAN I BRING MY PET ONBOARD?
We don’t have the facilities for your pet to come with us! However, all service animals are welcome aboard. They must have their ADA paperwork and/or tag visible.
WHAT WILL I SEE?
It all depends on the day, the time of year, and where we go! We have a few resident species and some seasonal visitors. For more information, head on over to our What We See page.
DOES YOUR CREW ACCEPT GRATUITIES?
Yes, of course! There is no pressure or necessity to tip, but they are greatly appreciated.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE WHALES?
Anytime! It depends on what you're hoping to see. Gray Whales pass by us on their annual migration during the winter. In the summer, we get to see Blue Whales feeding in our nutrient rich water. Humpback, Minke and Fin Whales can be seen throughout the entire year. A variety of dolphin species can also be seen at any time. For more information, please see our What We See page.
ARE GUESTS ALLOWED TO PLAY THEIR OWN MUSIC DURING A TRIP?
In order to create an engaging and memorable experience for our guests during a trip, music will not be allowed to be played by individual guests.