Boat tours along California’s Monterey Peninsula deliver some of America’s best marine wildlife viewing. Two standout excursions leave from historic Fisherman’s Wharf: the classic Whale-Watching Tour and the Wildlife Safari cruise through Monterey Bay’s rich wetlands. I love these tours for their seasoned crews who know exactly where to spot humpbacks, sea otters, and seals in their natural habitat. Both offerings maintain reasonable prices and smart cancellation policies – practical perks for travelers needing flexibility. Let’s explore the top boat tours in Monterey and Carmel.
Good To Know
The Family-Friendly Whale-Watching Boat Tour from Fisherman’s Wharf offers a 2-3 hour experience to observe humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life for $70 per person.
The Wildlife Safari Boat Tour from Moss Landing provides a 1.5-2 hour immersive journey to see sea otters, seals, and diverse bird species, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility for $43 per person.
Both tours feature knowledgeable and engaging crew, receive high ratings from travelers, and offer unique wildlife sightings and memorable encounters.
The Whale-Watching Tour provides opportunities to see great white sharks in addition to humpback whales, while the Wildlife Safari Tour highlights the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay wetland.
The Whale-Watching Tour has a 95% recommendation rate from 166 reviews, and the Wildlife Safari Tour maintains a perfect 5.0 average rating from 13 reviews with 100% traveler recommendation.
Monterey, California Family-Friendly Whale-Watching Boat Tour – Monterey & Carmel
The Monterey, California Family-Friendly Whale-Watching Boat Tour is a popular afternoon excursion that departs from Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey.
With 166 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and offers guests the chance to spot humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and even great white sharks.
The tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours and is priced at $70 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Guests are advised to arrive 30-45 minutes early to check-in, and parking is available at a nearby location for a fee.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are welcome, and infants can sit on laps.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and personable crew, who work diligently to provide an excellent viewing experience, even in rough seas.
Special sightings, such as orcas and unique whale behaviors, have been reported, adding to the already memorable encounters.
Read our full review: Monterey, California Family-Friendly Whale-Watching Boat Tour – Monterey & Carmel Review
Book now: Check availability
Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland
Departing from Moss Landing, the Wildlife Safari Boat Tour takes travelers on a captivating 1.5 to 2-hour journey through the scenic Monterey Bay wetland.
Offering a maximum of 26 participants, the tour allows visitors to observe a variety of local wildlife, including sea otters, sea lions, seals, and diverse bird species. Knowledgeable staff provide engaging information about the wildlife encountered during the tour.
The tour operates at 11:15 am and costs $43 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Participants should arrive 30 minutes early and can access free street parking or pay a $12 fee for the Moss Landing Harbor parking lot.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. While there are no restrooms on the boat, facilities are available at the nearby gift shop and harbor.
With 100% of travelers recommending the tour and an average rating of 5.0 from 13 reviews, the Wildlife Safari Boat Tour promises an exceptional wildlife experience in the stunning Monterey Bay wetland.
Read our full review: Wildlife Safari Boat Tour in Scenic Monterey Bay Wetland Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Allowed on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours and cruises have policies that don’t allow dogs onboard, with exceptions for service animals. Travelers should check with specific tour operators to confirm their pet policies before booking a tour.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tours?
The cancellation policy for boat tours typically allows customers to receive a full refund if they cancel their reservation within 24-48 hours of the scheduled departure. However, policies may vary between different tour operators.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours don’t have age restrictions, though some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the tour operator to understand their specific policies before booking.
What Are the Payment Options for the Boat Tours?
The payment options for most boat tours typically include cash, credit/debit cards, and online booking. Some may also accept mobile payment methods. Reservations and payments can often be made in advance to secure spots on popular tours.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks on the boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or additional fees for outside items.
The Sum Up
Monterey and Carmel offer a range of captivating boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to witness the region’s diverse marine wildlife. Whether it’s a family-friendly whale-watching excursion or a scenic wetland safari, these experiences provide an up-close glimpse into the wonders of Monterey Bay. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable vessels, these tours are a must-do for anyone seeking to fully enjoy the natural beauty of California’s central coast.