About This Tour
A fast and fun wildlife adventure awaits your family aboard our zodiac-style vessels (rigid inflatable boats). This cruise of up to 20 passengers gives you a thrilling 2-hour look at Southern California’s year-round whales and dolphins. With speeds of 30 knots or more, you’ll spend less time looking for animals and more time enjoying them! Your zodiac adventure will have you incredibly close to the ocean’s surface and within arm’s reach of wildlife. At the conclusion of your cruise, you'll receive one of Mrs. Capt. Dave's famously delicious Triple Fudge Brownies. (Some folks love the brownies more than the whales!) We are a certified Responsible Whale Watching partner with the World Cetacean Alliance located in Dana Point, CA, the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World®, and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas.
Photo Gallery
Exciting adventures with an apex predator of the ocean
Acrobatic humpback whales can be seen throughout the year
Dana Point made famous the 'dolphin stampede'
Zodiac whale watching cruise experiencing a blue whale up close
The west coast's most famous bottlenose dolphin, Patches, hangs out with our zodiac
Rarely seen orcas are a very special treat
TopTours Insights
Up-Close Dolphin & Whale Watching Zodiac Adventure in Dana Point
This 2-hour zodiac tour takes you out on the water for close encounters with dolphins and whales in Dana Point. It’s ideal for those who prefer a faster-paced adventure and the thrill of getting closer to marine life in smaller, more agile boats.
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What's Included
What's Not Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
Please arrive 45 minutes in advance. Check-in upstairs at our waterfront Dolphin Deck building. Located next to Baby Beach and OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor (Dana Point, Orange County, California)
Special Instructions
Please check in 45 minutes before trip time. Public parking is free and first-come, first-served. IMPORTANT: Please allow ample time to arrive and check-in. Unfortunately, we cannot delay the boat's departure nor rebook you on another trip if you are late. • Minimum age is 6 years old. • Participants with head, neck, or back problems or other serious medical conditions and pregnant women are not allowed.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
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Trusted local operator
Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 361 verified reviews
Average rating
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Up-Close Dolphin & Whale Watching Zodiac Adventure in Dana Point
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, a local water sports provider.
What's included?
This tour includes U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified vessel, Cetacean Declaration - Join us again for free within one calendar year if you don't see any dolphins or whales, and Live commentary on board. Additional amenities and services are included. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. All necessary equipment is provided by the tour operator.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 4.9-star rating based on 361+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This water sports experience lasts approximately 2 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to U.S. Coast Guard inspected and certified vessel and more.
What's the best time to do this tour?
Morning and early afternoon are typically the best times for water activities, as conditions are usually calmer and visibility is better.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Swimming ability requirements vary. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided. Please check the tour details or contact the operator if you have concerns about swimming requirements.
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