Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour from Moss Landing & Marine Biologist Guide

Summary

Whale watching in Monterey Bay with marine experts and close encounters

You’ll board at Moss Landing for a Monterey Bay whale watching tour led by a marine biologist guide. Expect close-up moments with humpbacks or maybe orcas, plus dolphins and jellyfish drifting past as you circle the deck. You’ll feel both awe and calm — and probably end up talking whales all afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I thought whale watching would be mostly waiting around, squinting at the horizon. But stepping onto the boat at Moss Landing, the air tasted salty and sharp, and there was this low hum of excitement from everyone — even before we left the dock. Our guide, Jen (she’s a marine biologist — you can tell by how she talks about plankton like it’s her favorite band), handed out tips about what to look for. Someone next to me said they’d driven down from San Francisco just for this spot because apparently Moss Landing means less time chugging out to sea and more actual whale watching. Didn’t know that.

The bay felt huge — cold wind in my face, gulls yelling overhead, and then suddenly someone shouted “spout!” I nearly dropped my phone trying to spot it. There’s something wild about seeing a humpback surface right there, so close you could see the barnacles on its back. The guide pointed out dolphins weaving through the water too, and one little kid kept giggling every time a jellyfish floated by (I get it). The boat had this 360-degree deck so you could wander around — I ended up leaning over the rail, hands freezing but not caring. Bathrooms were clean (which matters when you’re out here longer than you think), and people kept swapping stories about other trips or which whales they’d seen before.

We saw orcas in the distance — black fins slicing through silver water. Jen explained how the underwater canyon here brings all these creatures together; she made it sound almost like a secret party under the waves. At one point I just stood there listening to nothing but ocean and engine noise, feeling small in a good way. And yeah, I still think about that view when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour from Moss Landing

• Depart from Moss Landing harbor
• Enjoy 360-degree deck views
• Listen to marine biologist narration
• Spot whales and marine life
• Return to harbor after tour

Top questions

Where do Monterey Bay whale watching tours depart from?

Tours depart from Moss Landing at the mouth of Monterey Bay Canyon.

How long does it take to reach whale watching areas from Moss Landing?

Moss Landing departures mean less travel time to reach prime whale areas compared to leaving from Monterey wharf.

Are marine biologists present on these tours?

Yes, tours are narrated by marine biologist guides who share information about local wildlife.

What kinds of whales can you see on this tour?

You may see humpback whales, killer whales (orcas), gray whales, blue whales, and sometimes dolphins or sharks.

Is parking available at Moss Landing for whale watching?

Free street parking is available if you find a spot near the departure area.

Are restrooms available on board during the tour?

Yes, there are clean bathrooms on board each boat.

Is this tour suitable for young children or infants?

No, children under 3 years old are not allowed due to safety reasons.

Can I bring service animals on this whale watching tour?

Service animals are allowed on board.

What’s included

Your day includes boarding at Moss Landing with all fees covered, narration by a knowledgeable marine biologist guide throughout your Monterey Bay whale watching experience, access to restrooms on board for comfort during your trip, and free street parking nearby if available before departure.