Dolphin & Whale Watching Signature Safari by Dolphin Safari
About this experience
Duration
2.5 Hours
Meeting Point
24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive Dana Point, CA US 92629
Cancellations
Trip is non-cancelable, non-refundable, and non-changeable unless Trip Protection is purchased at the time of booking.
Offer In
English
Age
6+
Accessibility
Manute’a is never crowded with up to 49 passengers
You’ll enjoy unmatched comfort, stability, and panoramic ocean views. Experience our exclusive underwater viewing pods aboard Manute’a to see animals swimming underwater for a one-of-a-kind, eye-to-eye experience. As pioneers of eco-friendly whale watching, we’re proud to share the beauty of the Pacific responsibly while protecting the ocean we love.
When purchasing tickets for this cruise, your booking will be for our 2.5-hour Dolphin & Whale Signature Safari. Although our primary vessel for the Signature Safari is Manute’a, there may be occasions when other catamarans are used.
ABOUT OUR BOATS
Primary Catamaran: Manute’a
See Wildlife Swimming Underwater from Our Catamaran’s Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods
Nothing compares to the thrill of watching dolphins and whales swimming underwater just inches away. Aboard our flagship catamaran Manute’a, (pronounced mah-noo-tay-ah), guests can descend into clear underwater viewing pods for an experience that feels like being part of the ocean itself. These ‘pods’ let you connect eye to eye with animals as they glide gracefully through the water, revealing a perspective few ever get to see.
The spacious bow and open-air seating make Manute’a one of the most comfortable and immersive ways to enjoy catamaran whale watching in California. It’s a truly unforgettable encounter with marine wildlife that captures the magic of the Pacific.
Manute’a features brand-new, low-emission, energy-efficient engines that are cleaner and more efficient. Additionally, new cushioned seating features the artwork of former crew member and wildlife artist, Tracie Sugo, showcasing beautiful renditions of the marine wildlife that you may encounter during your Dana Point whale watching tour, and highlighting our commitment to education and immersion.
ADDITIONAL VESSELS
Supplemental Catamaran: DolphinSafari
This vessel is only available on select dates.
DolphinSafari is the original pride of our fleet and remains a crew and passenger favorite. She was the first vessel in Southern California to offer year-round dolphin watching. And it was aboard this catamaran sailboat that Captain Dave filmed his award-winning documentary, “Wild Dolphins & Whales of Southern California“.
DolphinSafari provides an intimate dolphin and whale watching experience and comfortably carries about 20 passengers.
Cushioned seating and panoramic views are available in the enclosed cockpit, but returning guests know the best place to be is on the bow!
Her specially designed bow with Eye-Spy Dolphin Nets is so close to the water that you feel as though you can touch the animals! You’re also close enough to hear the dolphins vocalize as they swim right under your feet. It’s almost like being in a kayak! There is a restroom available on the boat.
DolphinSafari is not equipped with Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods.
Supplemental Catamaran: Hoku Nai’a
This vessel is only available on select dates.
Hoku Nai’a is our double-deck, upscale, power catamaran. This fast and stable catamaran has two restrooms on board.
The spacious second deck is perfect for whale watching by giving you an elevated look at the animals.For your comfort, there are lightly-padded cushions adorned with bespoke marine wildlife designs on the bench seats. The upper deck is mostly covered for sun protection.
The first deck is fully enclosed, and large windows on both sides provide plenty of viewing angles. Bench seats with surfboard tables and a lounge area are perfect for those wanting to enjoy refreshments.
Beautifully appointed with upscale décor throughout the vessel that celebrates Dana Point’s famous surfing culture and recognition as the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®.
Hoku Nai’a is not equipped with Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods.
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!
Highlights
For over 30 years, we have shared the magic of whales and dolphins off Dana Point, the trademarked Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®. We are proud to be a certified Responsible Whale Watching partner with the World Cetacean Alliance. As part of the first Whale Heritage Area in the Americas, our team is dedicated to education, conservation, and creating life-changing ocean experiences that inspire guests to protect marine life long after they return home.
Additional information
Check-in details
Check in 30 to 45 minutes in advance at our ‘Dolphin Deck’ building on the waterfront. Guests attending on holidays or holiday weekends are advised to allow additional time.
Special requirements
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
No onboard storage is available. Please bring only what you can keep on your lap. Oversized bags and coolers are not permitted. Small bags such as waist packs, mini backpacks, or camera sling bags are recommended.
Extras
Cetacean Declaration – Our Wildlife Sightings Commitment
Although we locate whales or dolphins on over 95% of our trips, sightings can never be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural ocean environment.
In the rare event that no whales and no dolphins are sighted, regular fare guests are offered a complimentary return trip on another Zodiac Safari within one year of the original trip date.
Because the safari takes place as scheduled, refunds are not issued for no-sightings trips.
No-sightings vouchers are non-transferable and may only be used by the guests who were aboard the original safari.
Disclaimers
This low-to-the-water boat may encounter ocean spray. Please keep electronics, cameras, and other valuables secure and protected while underway.
Restrictions
Entry into the Underwater Viewing Pods on Manute’a requires the use of ladder-like steps. Persons with a disability or limited mobility may have difficulty.
Our Signature Safari is designed to be enjoyable for most guests; however, access to certain areas of the vessel may vary depending on individual mobility and physical ability. Boarding, restrooms, the bow, and the Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods may require stepping, balance, or navigating compact spaces.
If you have any questions about accessibility, we encourage you to contact us prior to booking so we can help determine if this experience is the right fit.
Itinerary
Guests check in 30 to 45 minutes in advance.
You can use the restrooms and relax under an umbrella at our ‘Dolphin Deck’.
A crew member escorts you to the boat for boarding.
Two and 1/2 unforgettable hours of dolphin and whale watching.
Boat returns to the dock.
As you disembark, you’ll receive a special treat, one of Mrs. Capt. Dave’s famous Trip Fudge Brownies.
Share your experience and don’t forget to tag us @captdaveswhalewatching
Tour map
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