Breathtaking Ocean Encounter: Newport Beach Whale Cruise
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Price From $28.90 per person
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During your whale-watching cruise, learn fascinating details about all types of California sea life from the onboard naturalist with the beautiful coastal scenery of Newport Beach & Laguna Beach as backdrop. Year-round whale-watching cruises like this one are rare, so don’t miss this chance to see giant blue, finback, grey, minke and humpback whales. Over half dozen different types of dolphin including giant Risso Dolphin at over 12 feet in length, white sided dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and common dolphin. See super pods of dolphin sometimes numbering over 1000 dolphin strong. The luxury option includes a spacious yacht with numerous features including 360 degree walk around deck, a lower passenger count and greater speeds for going the distance to see mammals.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Ehood01, 12/13/2025 5:58:18 PM
Be aware of bait and switch if thinking of booking the luxury catamaran experience. We paid for the luxury catamaran and upgraded to VIP. Instead of getting the catamaran, we got a large ferry because they “chartered” the catamaran for someone else. The man at the desk was rude and tried to tell us they were the same as if we are stupid. Poor experience, no whale sightings and a rude manager. Go somewhere else.
Abigail_F, 11/25/2025 8:55:05 PM
We didn’t see any wildlife other than sea lions on a bouy but it was still nice and the staff was very nice
ver_nicalZ4340CQ, 11/22/2025 6:32:16 PM
We saw thousand of dolphins including baby ones. They swam so close to the boat. It was so great. Captain Jill, Tina and Cole were also so nice and enthusiastic.
Jordi_R, 11/20/2025 3:54:22 PM
Amazing experience ! We got to see a rare whale. The people in the crew were really helpful and knowledgeable.
Jarsleydy_C, 11/12/2025 2:40:13 PM
Was good, We enjoyed the view of the sea and the dolphins, we didn't see any whales this month, but I suppose it's common sense to know that whales can't be seen during these winter months.
Annalise418, 11/10/2025 12:53:48 AM
Enjoyable boat ride on a sunny November Sunday. Knowledgable and friendly tour guide and captain. However, we saw way more dolphins than whales. Not complaining, dolphins are wonderful, but for an experience called “whale watching” we saw them farther than I expected, and only once we got to the end of the route. The sea lions resting on the buoy on the way back to the dock was a special treat. Overall, would recommend but just set expectations to see many more dolphins and birds than actual whales.
Y8332HFlisac, 11/4/2025 5:50:45 PM
It was kindda pleasant would do it again we seen tons of dolphins. Weather was Great not to hot or too cold. Very nice calm waves
Bob_D, 11/2/2025 5:08:43 PM
it hit or miss is whether you’re going to actually see any whales or dolphins. I was fortunate. I was able to see two humpback whales that put on quite a show.
jennifergH3078OY, 11/1/2025 6:27:38 PM
We saw 3 whales on this adventure! We were skeptical that we would see any, so seeing 3(!) was such a grand adventure! Many thanks to the staff for taking us out and providing such a great time. Sometimes you hit the jackpot! I couldn’t add photos of whales, as I only took video.
Kellie_A, 10/31/2025 12:34:05 PM
Fantastic experience! We saw so much wildlife!! Hundreds of dolphins (I’ve never seen so many in one place!) thousands of birds and a humpback whale!! The captain followed him to give us the best views while respecting the whale’s space. The views were incredible! Then, as a nice bonus, we saw a Minky whale on our way back to the dock. The attention to our safety and wellbeing was obvious, and the determination to give us the best views and experience with the animals was top notch!
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. No high heels are allowed.
- Outside alcohol, ice chests, coolers or glass containers are strictly prohibited.
- Vessel may change depending on availability.
- Arrive at least 1 hour early for all tours- especially during summer months. Parking may be challenging, especially on weekends.
Departure point
Parking is best found at the valet parking structure at 309 Palm St. Newport Beach, CA 92661 (corner of Adams St & E Bay Ave) or the Balboa Pier Municipal Parking Lot located at 1 Balboa Pier Newport Beach, CA. 92661. Please be prepared to pay for both. Oversized vehicles should use Balboa Pier.Return details
During your whale-watching cruise, learn fascinating details about all types of California sea life from the onboard naturalist with the beautiful coastal scenery of Newport Beach & Laguna Beach as backdrop. Year-round whale-watching cruises like this one are rare, so don’t miss this chance to see giant blue, finback, grey, minke and humpback whales. Over half dozen different types of dolphin including giant Risso Dolphin at over 12 feet in length, white sided dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and common dolphin. See super pods of dolphin sometimes numbering over 1000 dolphin strong. The luxury option includes a spacious yacht with numerous features including 360 degree walk around deck, a lower passenger count and greater speeds for going the distance to see mammals.Redemption
Please note: Upon arrival you must check-in to receive your boarding pass.24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund










