Newport Beach stands among California’s prime whale-watching locations, with several well-organized tours departing daily. Small groups will appreciate Capt. Nick’s intimate 6-person private tours, perfect for photographers and serious whale enthusiasts. For budget-conscious travelers, Davey’s Locker runs excellent 2.5-hour group excursions on their spacious 65-foot vessel – a great value for families.
We especially love the Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise for its remarkable 96% success rate at spotting marine life, while the 50-foot luxury catamaran offers the most comfortable viewing experience with included refreshments.
Let’s look at our favorite Newport Beach whale watching tours.
Good To Know
- Private VIP whale and dolphin watching tour with experienced captain and personalized experience for up to 6 participants.
- Whale-watching cruise from Newport Beach operated by Davey’s Locker, offering sightings of various whale and marine life species.
- Newport Beach whale and dolphin watching cruise with a high success rate of spotting whales or dolphins and a double-decker catamaran vessel.
- Luxury whale watching tour on a 50-foot catamaran yacht with complimentary beverages, snacks, and binoculars.
- Ultimate whale and dolphin watching tour with a maximum of 6 passengers for a semi-private sunset experience along Newport Beach’s coastline.
Private VIP Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour With Capt. Nick in Newport Beach
A private 2-hour Supreme Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Newport Beach, California, led by Captain Nick, offers a personalized VIP experience for up to six participants.
With over 24 years of industry experience, Captain Nick is a USCG-licensed captain who’s well-versed in the local marine ecosystem. The tour, which has received 161 reviews with a 100% traveler recommendation, allows guests to cruise near Newport Harbor in search of dolphins and whales.
The easy-to-find meeting point at 508 S Bay Front, Newport Beach, CA 92662, features banners for easy identification. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, stroller and service animal accessibility is available.
Travelers should dress warmly, bring sunblock, and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. Though non-refundable, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee, starting at $450.00 for up to six participants.
Read our full review: Private VIP Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour With Capt. Nick in Newport Beach Review
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Whale-Watching Cruise From Newport Beach
Operated by Davey’s Locker, the Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach offers a 2.5-hour adventure to spot some of the world’s largest marine mammals.
This family-friendly, year-round tour departs from 400 Main Street, where a 65-foot boat with an experienced captain and crew takes passengers on a journey to see blue, grey, minke, finback, and humpback whales, as well as dolphins, sea lions, and seals.
The cruise provides knowledgeable commentary on the marine life, and the sightings vary by season, with minke and humpback whales typically spotted in the winter and spring, and blue, grey, and finback whales in the summer and fall.
With a maximum capacity of 115 travelers, the cruise boasts a 4.3-star rating from 771 reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
Tickets start from $25.20 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Whale-Watching Cruise From Newport Beach Review
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Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
The Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise provides travelers with a chance to observe some of the Pacific Ocean’s most captivating marine life.
With a 96% success rate spotting whales or dolphins, this wildlife-watching cruise takes guests on a double-decker catamaran with 360-degree views. Passengers may see humpbacks, gray whales, finback whales, blue whales, seals, and several dolphin species along the California coast.
The cruise departs multiple times throughout the day from a convenient location in Newport Beach. While food and drinks aren’t included, alcoholic beverages can be purchased onboard.
With a maximum capacity of 115 travelers, the cruise offers an intimate experience to appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife, regardless of specific sightings.
Though some past guests have expressed dissatisfaction with communication and refund policies, the knowledgeable and friendly crew generally provide an informative and enjoyable outing for whale and dolphin enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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Luxury Whale Watching – Fewer People, Extra Speed, Expert Staff
Although the Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise offers a popular option for wildlife enthusiasts, those seeking a more exclusive and enhanced experience may prefer the Luxury Whale Watching tour by Daveys Locker.
This 50-foot catamaran yacht boasts a 360-degree viewing walkway, allowing guests to get closer to the marine life. With a maximum capacity of only 40 travelers, the tour provides ample space and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Customers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly crew, who work diligently to spot whales, dolphins, and seals. While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour includes complimentary beverages, snacks, and binoculars to enhance the overall experience.
Priced at $69 per person, the tour also offers a half-off coupon for return visits and a VIP package for those seeking an even more premium experience.
Read our full review: Luxury Whale Watching – Fewer People, Extra Speed, Expert Staff Review
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Ultimate Whale and Dolphin Watching in Newport Beach, 6 Person Maximum
For travelers seeking an even more exclusive and intimate whale and dolphin watching experience, the Ultimate Whale and Dolphin Watching tour in Newport Beach offers a 6-person maximum excursion.
This semi-private adventure showcases the scenic beauty of Newport Beach’s coastline and the Pacific Ocean at sunset, guided by a knowledgeable captain who shares insights on the marine life.
With a maximum of 6 passengers, the experience provides a personalized and immersive encounter with whales, dolphins, and other wildlife. Rated 4.9 with 40 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, the 2-hour tour includes professional guiding and transportation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a unique ocean adventure.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women in their third trimester or those with serious physical impairments.
The memorable sightings and close encounters with marine life make this an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Ultimate Whale and Dolphin Watching in Newport Beach, 6 Person Maximum Review
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Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Newport Beach
Offering an exclusive and personalized marine adventure, this Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Newport Beach is led by a Certified Marine Naturalist.
Boasting a 98% recommendation rate from 58 travelers, the tour takes guests on a scenic ride through Newport, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point, providing opportunities to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitats.
Equipped with the latest technology and Coast Guard safety features, the 40 mph rigid-hulled inflatable boat is captained by a licensed professional who offers personalized commentary throughout the journey.
Guests can bring their own food and drinks, and gratuities, though appreciated, aren’t mandatory.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Priced at $425 for up to 6 people, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable captains and the unforgettable sightings of marine life.
Read our full review: Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Newport Beach Review
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Whale Watching Cruise From Newport Beach
Situated along the stunning Palos Verdes Peninsula, the Whale Watching Cruise from Newport Beach invites travelers to embark on an unforgettable marine adventure. This 1.5-hour excursion, offered by a reputable local company, promises sightings of a variety of whales, including gray, humpback, and sperm whales, as well as other marine life such as sharks, seabirds, dolphins, and sea lions.
The medium-sized vessel, capable of accommodating up to 50 passengers, provides a safe and intimate setting for the experience. Onboard amenities include light snacks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase, along with live commentary and a professional guide to enhance the experience.
The cruise departs from and returns to the convenient location of 400 Main St, Newport Beach, with parking validation available.
While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, previous guests have enjoyed the opportunity to observe dolphins and sea lions, and have praised the smooth operation and knowledgeable staff.
At a price range of $60 per person, the Whale Watching Cruise offers a unique and captivating way to explore the natural wonders of the Newport Beach coastline.
Read our full review: Whale-Watching Cruise From Newport Beach Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tours?
The minimum age requirement for these whale watching tours is typically 3 years old. Most tour operators allow children as young as 3 to join the excursions, though they may require younger children to be accompanied by an adult.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the whale watching boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policies and any restrictions.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tours?
Most whale watching tours allow passengers to bring a small amount of personal items, such as a camera, binoculars, and a light jacket. However, large or bulky luggage is typically not permitted on the boats for safety and space reasons.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many whale-watching tours offer wheelchair accessibility, allowing passengers with mobility challenges to enjoy the experience. Operators typically have ramps, lifts, or other accommodations to ensure everyone can comfortably board the vessels and view the whales.
Do the Tours Provide Binoculars for Spotting Whales?
The whale watching tours typically provide binoculars to help passengers spot whales and other marine life. This allows everyone, including those without their own binoculars, to get a closer look at the whales during the excursion.
The Sum Up
Newport Beach offers a variety of whale-watching experiences, from private VIP tours to larger cruises. Visitors can expect to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life up close while enjoying the scenic coastal views. With expert staff and comfortable vessels, these tours provide an unforgettable way to connect with the wonders of the Pacific Ocean.