Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with Heated Cabins & Biologist

Summary

Whale watching in Monterey Bay with marine biologists and cozy cabins

You’ll step onto Monterey Bay’s biggest whale watching boats with heated cabins and 360-degree decks, guided by marine biologists who spot whales year-round. Feel ocean spray on your face, hear excited shouts when dolphins appear, and share small moments with fellow travelers. This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s being part of something wild and communal.

What’s the experience like?

“Sometimes the whales come so close you’ll smell their breath,” our guide, Alex, grinned as we shuffled onto the Princess Monterey. I thought he was joking — but about an hour later, that weirdly sweet, fishy scent really did drift over the rail. The boat was bigger than I expected, with this wraparound deck where you could lean into the wind or duck inside to warm up (the heated cabin windows fogged up whenever someone laughed too hard). It was chilly, but not in a bad way — more like the kind of cold that wakes you up.

I’d never seen so many people pointing at the water at once. Every time someone spotted a spout or a tail, there’d be this ripple of excitement — even from folks who’d clearly done this before. Our marine biologist kept rattling off facts (“That’s a humpback!” “Look for dolphins on the left!”), but honestly I was mostly just gawking. At one point, a sea otter floated by on its back looking completely unbothered by all of us craning for photos. There were pelicans skimming low over the waves and kids bundled up in hats, faces pink from the wind.

The best part wasn’t even seeing whales (though yeah, we did — two adults and what might’ve been a calf). It was how everyone started talking to strangers — sharing binoculars, swapping stories about other trips gone wrong or right. Someone handed me hot coffee when my hands got cold. I tried to say thank you over the boat engine but probably just shouted nonsense. The whole thing felt less like a tour and more like being let in on some local secret, even though we were all clearly visitors.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Monterey Bay whale watching tour

• Board Princess Monterey or Atlantis Monterey
• Optional VIP upper deck seating upgrade
• Enjoy whale watching with marine biologist narration
• View diverse sea life in Monterey Bay

Top questions

How long does the Monterey whale watching tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but tours typically last several hours depending on sightings.

Are children allowed on the whale watching tour?

Children under 3 years old are not permitted on this tour.

Is there indoor seating available during the tour?

Yes, both indoor heated cabins and outdoor seating are available onboard.

Can pregnant women join the Monterey whale watching trip?

No, pregnant women cannot participate in this tour for safety reasons.

Is there a restroom onboard the boat?

Yes, there is a restroom available onboard during your whale watching tour.

Are guides or naturalists present during the trip?

Yes, professional marine biologists and naturalists narrate throughout the experience.

Is VIP upper deck seating included in my ticket?

No, VIP upper deck seating is optional for an extra charge if space is available at check-in.

What’s included

Your day includes boarding one of Monterey Bay’s largest boats with both heated indoor cabins and outdoor decks for viewing; narration from professional marine biologists; access to restrooms; and optional VIP upper deck seating upgrade if available at check-in.