Quick overview

• Ways to experience: Choose between a dedicated whale watching & dolphin tour or a relaxed harbor sightseeing cruise, both departing from Rainbow Harbor (Long Beach) and West Harbor (San Pedro), with expert-guided experiences on custom-built boats.
  
• What’s included: All cruises feature live narration by professionals from the Aquarium of the Pacific, comfortable seating, and opportunities to spot whales and dolphins depending on the season and conditions.
  
• Unique experiences: Spot humpback, blue, and killer whales along with playful dolphin pods on the whale watching tour, or enjoy scenic harbor views with occasional wildlife sightings on the sightseeing cruise.
  
• When to book: Tours run daily year-round with multiple departures, but popular time slots, especially weekends, can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.
  
• Good to know: Wildlife sightings vary by season and ocean conditions, making each cruise unique. Both tours offer flexible departure points and a comfortable, informative experience on the water.
  
• Best pick: Choose the whale watching tour for a focused wildlife experience, or opt for the harbor sightseeing cruise for a shorter, more relaxed coastal ride.

​See the detailed comparison below

Things to know before booking your whale watching tours/tickets

• Ticket availability & booking: Both cruises run daily year-round, but popular time slots, especially weekends and holidays, can fill quickly. It’s best to book a few days in advance to secure your preferred departure time and location.
  
• Ways to experience these cruises: You can choose between a whale watching & dolphin tour for a focused wildlife experience in open ocean waters, or a harbor sightseeing cruise for a more relaxed ride with coastal views and occasional marine sightings.
  
• Departure points & logistics: Both tours depart from Rainbow Harbor and West Harbor. Transfers are not included, so plan your travel to the departure point.
  
• Age or participation considerations: These are generally suitable for most travelers, but conditions at sea can vary. If you are prone to seasickness or have mobility concerns, it’s best to check vessel accessibility and plan accordingly.
  
• Best time to book & seasonal highlights: Whale sightings depend on the time of year; gray whales are more common in winter, while blue and humpback whales are often seen in summer. Dolphin sightings are frequent throughout the year.
  
• Weather & sea conditions: All cruises are subject to ocean and weather conditions. In case of unsafe conditions, tours may be rescheduled or adjusted, so it’s a good idea to keep your plans flexible.

Tips and guidelines for your tour

• Arrive early and dress in layers: Aim to be at the departure dock at least 45–60 minutes before boarding to secure your preferred spot and allow extra time for parking and check-in. Even on sunny days, the open ocean can feel chilly due to wind and spray, so pack a windproof jacket, closed-toe shoes, and a hat. Adjust your attire for sudden weather changes to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
  
• Choose a prime viewing location on the boat: For the best whale sightings, position yourself at the bow or front deck early in the tour, where unobstructed views of the horizon reveal whale spouts and breaches. Moving closer to the rail when safe and following your guide’s recommendations can maximize your chances of seeing graceful marine giants.
  
• Prepare your photography gear for dynamic shots: Bring a zoom lens (around 200mm or more) and use burst mode to capture fleeting moments like tail flukes, spyhopping, or breaching events. Protect your camera or phone with a waterproof case or dry bag since spray is common on open decks. Also, avoid flash photography to keep the wildlife undisturbed.
  
• Manage seasickness with smart strategies: If you’re prone to motion sickness, take non-drowsy medication 30–60 minutes before departure, and consider using ginger candies or motion sickness wristbands. Choose seats toward the mid-ship on lower decks where motion is less pronounced. Light snacks before boarding and focusing on the distant horizon can help.
  
• Respect marine life and follow onboard guidelines: Keep voices low and avoid abrupt movements. Follow crew instructions on distancing and prohibited activities like drone usage or flash photography.