Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Safari in Dana Point, CA
Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari •
24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive • Dana Point, CA 92629
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Grab your binoculars for an unforgettable Dana Point whale-watching experience! These narrated cruises in Dana Point, CA, show the ocean’s abundant marine life, from whales to dolphins and more aboard high-speed boats. See what it’s like to swim with dolphins via the underwater viewing pods, and listen to the hydrophone for whale and dolphin vocalizations!
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There is no specific time! Dolphin, whales and all types of marine wildlife float, freestyle, glide, pose, dive, dip, and zip throughout the year, all day long. Morning trips are calmer because there’s less wind, and disruptions in the water are easier to spot.
It is recommended to check in at least 45 minutes ahead of time. Check in and chill on the Dolphin Deck. Between June and September, on holidays, or the Festival of Whales, it is best to arrive 60 to 90 minutes in advance to ensure parking ease at Dana Point Harbor because whales tend to double-park.
You’re welcome to bring beer and wine on their 2.5-hour Signature Safari, but for safety, please don’t forget the plastic cups. And as always, drink responsibly. You can also visit the Dolphin Deck to purchase cold beverages, delicious sandwiches, yummy snacks and refreshing ice cream. As for the Zodiac cruise, because of the fast and bouncy ride, drinks must be in containers that can be closed, such as reusable water bottles, and easy-to-eat dry snacks that won’t be swept away by the wind such as granola bars and cookies. Guests should bring sunglasses, cameras, (or extra space on the smartphone), film or memory cards, binoculars, sunblock, caps, and visors. Jackets and windbreakers are always good for the cruise, too.
It is usually 10-15 degrees cooler on the water, even when the sun shines, so it’s a good idea to layer clothes. Wear tennis or deck shoes if possible, preferably with non-marking, non-black soles. And if it looks like rain, a rain poncho will help. A hat or visor is a good idea, too.
Yes, there are plenty of photo opportunities on board.
Manute’a sailboat has two bathrooms. The bathrooms are slightly below deck so you need to be able to climb down a small boat ladder – just three steps – to get to them. Zodiac-style boat, however, does not have a bathroom on board.
Captain Dave's vessels usually go out about 3-5 miles, but they have gone up to 8 miles from shore on occasion, depending on where the whales and dolphin are. They are always in view of the gorgeous Orange County coastline.
Bonine, Dramamine, Ginger tablets. Ginger Ale and Pressure Point Wristbands are all available for purchase on the Dolphin Deck, but check in early to ensure maximum effectiveness.
If it’s safe, you go! And although it rarely rains in Southern California, your captain will make a decision as to the safety of the voyage before departure if it does. Be prepared, at the dock, and ready to go!
In the unlikely event your cruise turns up zero whales or dolphins, you can return with a complimentary ticket within one year from the date of the trip! Please note that your “no sightings” ticket is non-transferable and expires one year from the date of your “no sightings” cruise.
Pregnant women are allowed on Manute’a sailboat. However, pregnant women are not allowed on the high-speed zodiac-style boat due to the potentially bouncy ride.
Children of all ages are welcome aboard their boats. All of their vessels are safe and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Yes. Please make a note of your request for accessibility assistance in the comments section above when booking your tickets.
Depending on ocean conditions, your legs and feet could get wet on the bow while the boat is out to sea and going fast! However, the boat slows down in the presence of dolphins and whales and you’re less likely to get splashed.
Only if you would like to, and please know it’s never expected. If you have enjoyed your whale and dolphin safari, gratuities are always appreciated.
The Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari holds a maximum of 49 passengers per trip and the Zodiac tour can accommodate up to12 passengers per trip.