See the whales—you’ll be in awe

Monterey Bay is home to one of North America’s deepest and largest submarine canyons, larger than the Grand Canyon. Currents along the canyon walls create upwellings, which send plankton and nutrient rich waters to the surface bringing whales, dolphins, orcas, sea otters and occasionally a sea turtle to the bay.

A whale watching excursion is a visitor’s must-do to fully appreciate Monterey Bay—and for locals to stay in touch with our extraordinary region.

Check this report of recent sightings from Monterey Bay Whale Watch.

Here are a few of our favorite charters—all accompanied by marine biologists or expert naturalists to help you get the most from your experience:

Monterey
Princess Monterey Whale Watching
Princess Monterey Whale Watching has been in the cruise business for over 30 years. They offer narrated ocean and bay tours, specializing in natural history and biology of marine wildlife. Whale watching trips run year-round and are fully narrated by marine biologists/naturalists.
96 Fisherman’s Wharf #1 (831) 372-2203
Monterey Bay Green Business certified

Monterey Bay Whale Watch
Monterey Bay Whale Watch was named one of the top 5 American whale-watching tours (the only one in California) by Joshua Horowitz, author of War of the Whales. Owner Nancy Black has a Master’s of Marine Science degree focusing on Pacific White-sided Dolphin and Killer Whales. For over 25 years she has worked with cetaceans in Monterey Bay, including as the primary investigator for the Oceanic Society’s whale and dolphin research program. The tours focus on learning about whales and their environment.
84 Fisherman’s Wharf (831) 375-4658

Moss Landing
Sanctuary Cruises
The Sanctuary Cruises charter boat uses 99% clean-burning bio-diesel made in central California entirely from recycled waste vegetable oil collected from central California restaurants. No oil is imported and no fossil fuels are burned. It’s better for the economy, the ocean creatures, the air, and you.
Moss Landing Harbor, 7881 Sandholdt (831) 351-4090

Santa Cruz
Stagnaro Charters Santa Cruz Whale Watching
Ken Stagnaro has been running whale and sea life excursions for over 20 years. Most Stagnaro crew members and naturalists live in the Monterey Bay area and have first hand working knowledge of our local marine environment.
Tickets & check-in: 1718 Brommer (831) 427-0230

Eco-guide to living lighter

Whales in the bay

Whales in the bay

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