3-Hour Whale Watching Tour from Monterey: Narrated by marine biologist

A marine biologist narrates the whole trip, turning what you see into a lesson in real time.

A 3-hour whale watching boat tour departing from Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, narrated by a marine biologist or naturalist who teaches you about whales, dolphins and marine wildlife while the crew collects sighting data for scientific research. The tour runs year-round as Monterey Bay is a premier whale watching destination. Coffee and tea are included. The boat returns between 12:30pm and 1pm.

The experience

You meet at Fisherman's Wharf at 10am and board for a 3-hour trip into Monterey Bay, where whales and dolphins are spotted regularly throughout the year. The marine biologist or naturalist on board does more than point things out. They explain what you're seeing, talk about the natural history of the area, and discuss conservation. While you're watching, the crew is also collecting sighting data that feeds into scientific research, so your presence contributes to something beyond the moment itself.

The crew teaches you how to spot whales and dolphins in the water and gives practical advice on capturing photos and videos. Coffee and tea are available throughout the trip. You'll return to Fisherman's Wharf between 12:30pm and 1pm, giving you the rest of the afternoon free.

The tour runs daily and operates year-round, though it is subject to favorable weather conditions. If poor weather forces a cancellation after you've booked, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund. A minimum number of passengers must be met for the tour to depart. If that threshold isn't reached, you'll be offered an alternative tour or a full refund.

What’s included

• Coffee and tea throughout the trip.
• live narration from a marine biologist or naturalist explaining whale behavior, dolphin identification and the natural history of Monterey Bay.
• instruction on how to spot marine wildlife and photograph it.
• participation in the crew's scientific research data collection.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 12:30 and 13:30

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Infant (under 4)

GroupUp to 35

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Discovery Whale Watch

Is this one for you?Book this tour if you want the marine biology lesson built in: the guide isn't just pointing out whales, they're teaching you what you're looking at and why it matters. The fixed departure time and return window fit an afternoon with other plans, and the year-round schedule means you don't have to time your trip around a season.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years); Infant (under 4).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What kind of whales and dolphins might I see on the Monterey Bay tour?

Monterey Bay is a premier whale watching destination year-round, and the marine biologist on board will identify the species you encounter and explain their behavior and migration patterns. The specific animals present vary by season, and the guide will discuss what is typically in the area during your visit.

How long is the actual time spent on the water?

The tour is 3 hours total, departing at 10am and returning between 12:30pm and 1pm. That includes the time on the boat watching and learning from the marine biologist.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If poor weather forces a cancellation after you've confirmed your booking, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

Do I need any experience or fitness level to join this tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and service animals are allowed.

Is food included, or can I bring my own snacks?

Coffee and tea are included on the tour. Food and drinks beyond that are not included, though you're welcome to bring your own. Alcoholic drinks are available to purchase on board if you're of legal drinking age (21+).

Can I buy photos from the tour?

Souvenir photos are available to purchase on the tour. The crew will also give you tips on how to capture your own photos and videos of the whales and dolphins you see.