San Diego Whale Watching: Naturalist Notes – 1/3/26-1/10/26

Updated on January 10, 2026

San Diego Whale Sightings 1/3/26 from the onboard team of volunteer naturalists for our San Diego Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure: up-close views and educational moments by expert captains and volunteer naturalists from the San Diego Natural History Museum. Don’t forget that kids cruise FREE in December and January; use promo code WHALEYFUN.

1.10.26

9:00 am Whale Watch & Dolphin Sightings:

1 Gray Whale
Dolphins

We had plenty of sunshine and extremely calm seas. Early in the cruise, a gray whale was spotted making its southbound migration. We were able to stay with the whale for a while, observing its distinctive heart-shaped blow and seeing numerous flukes.

Your naturalist,

Glenda

1.4.26

9:00 am Whale Watch & Dolphin Sightings:

Gray Whales
Dolphins

We were treated to NINE migrating southbound Gray Whales today! Beautiful skies post-rain, and we first saw a group of 5 traveling together, then two more, then another two! A few common and pacific white-sided dolphins were thrown in for fun as well!

Your naturalists,

Aimee & Leslie

1.3.26

9:00 am Whale Watch & Dolphin Sightings:

Fin Whale
Common Dolphin

It was a beautiful day in the water. Swells were minimal, and cloud cover made for great photography. We saw about 10 dolphins at the mouth of the bay. Sadly, no whales were observed this trip, but guests were given passes to go out again.

Your naturalist,

Butcher

A great way to time your whale-watching adventure is to check out our Whale-Watching Naturalist Notes, which include sightings and reports of whales, dolphins, and other birds and sea life. This blog-style report provides valuable insights that help future guests plan and enhance their experience. It can identify the best time for spotting, update on weather conditions, highlight active whale and dolphin species, and educate guests about local sea life. Please review our website’s more detailed helpful hints blog and how-to guide for your whale-watching adventure.

San Diego Whale Watching: Naturalist Notes – 1/3/26

Featured in this post

OverviewIncludesExcludesOffersScheduleWhere to MeetAdditional InformationDress CodeDuration ofMaxLess than an hourA few hoursFeatured ExperienceRecent BookingsHighlightsInclusionsDeparture Point/EntranceDeparture Timehourhours5 hours4 hours3 hours3.5 hoursOne hourIncludesWhy take this tour?Important InformationWhat's IncludedMeeting PointEnd PointCheck AvailabilityLast Minute DealsSave NowNew TourAbout this ExperienceExtras/UpgradesAdditional InfoComplimentary SouvenirRecyclable mist poncho ...Read More Show LessReviewsUpgrade ExperienceFAQsBook NowPackagesEssential InfoExtras & UpgradesExtras & UpgradesCancellation PolicyBook with ConfidenceBook SecurelyPay Over Time with AffirmFor orders over $50, pay over time in four installments.We use SSL encryption to keep your data safe and privateCustomer SupportHaving trouble? We’re here to help. Call, chat, or email us.Flexible BookingManage your booking and make changes easily right from your account. Available on most experiences.Ticket AssuranceReschedule or refund your reservation up to 2 hours prior to boarding time with Ticket Assurance. Not available on select experiences including special events, holidays or partner tours.Package Deal AvailableLikely to Sell Out2X Reward PointsFree Cancellation with Ticket AssuranceFree CancellationUp to 2 hours in advanceUp to 24 hours in advanceLearn MoreGroup Rates AvailableSpecial rates for groups of 20 or moreStart PlanningUnforgettable ExperiencesIconic and one-of-a-kind experiencesExpert Tour GuidesLocal, friendly and experts on the city they loveSpecial Access TourAdmission to the grounds of Liberty Island and Ellis IslandA Sightseeing AdventureSee Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point, and more!Admission to Alcatraz Island includedSave Up to 20% by Bundling!View PackageTicket purchases can only be made onboard.Tour ItineraryBuy One, Get One Free Ticket!Restricted to Bay Area residents on select dates. Add a pair of tickets to cart to receive BOGO. Discount will apply at checkout.Alcatraz Tickets Sold Out?Book Bay Discovery Cruise hereLooking for a morning activity?Get 10% off the 10:40AM Bay Discovery Cruise.Nearby OptionsBerkeley Father's Day Premier Brunch CruisefeesAll admin and port fees includedFees and taxes included in price

San Diego Whale Watching: Naturalist Notes – 1/3/26-1/10/26

San Diego Whale Watching: Naturalist Notes – 1/3/26-1/10/26

Featured in this post

1.10.26

1.4.26

1.3.26

Featured in this post

Top Destinations

Shopping Cart