how much is whale watching in monterey

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What is the best time for whale watching in Monterey?

Whale Watching

• Humpback Whales. From April to November, humpback whales come here from the Mexican coast. ...
• Blue Whales. Blue whales got their name from the color they have when underwater. ...
• Gray Whales. Gray whales have a specific color and a rough embossed surface. ...
• Killer Whales. Also known as orca whales, killer whales are the most unpredictable predators in the bay. ...

What kind of Whales can you see in Monterey Bay?

There are two seasons for whale watching in Monterey Bay, home of a world-famous aquarium. Visit from mid-December through mid-April to see gray whales, dolphins and killer whales migrating, or visit from mid-April through mid-December to see humpback whales, blue whales, dolphins and killer whales.

What whales are found in Monterey Bay?

Whale Watching Monterey Bay California – The Whales of Monterey Bay From April through November the Humpback Whale is the most common whale found out of Monterey Bay. The “local” population of several hundred Humpbacks are known to spend the winter months off of the Mexican Coast and then migrate to the central California coast for the ...

What species of whales are in Monterey Bay?

Thousands of people travel from all over the world to this amazing location, hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the world’s largest animals. The whales of Monterey Bay include blue whale, gray whale, fin whale, killer whale, and humpback whale, with thousands of animal sightings every year.

Is whale watching in Monterey worth it?

A Monterey whale watching tour is worth it as the bay has a high concentration of stunning whales. You can spot gray whales, blue whales, or humpback whales. Additionally, you can see dolphins and sea lions. Adults and kids love this experience.

What is the best month for whale watching in Monterey?

While often spotted alone or in pairs, if food is abundant feeding groups of 40-50 can be encountered. BEST time to see humpback whales in Monterey Bay: March through November, with peak sightings generally during July and August (though every season is different).

How much money is whale watching?

PricesAgeWeekdayWeekend/HolidayAdults (Ages 13 - 59)$34.00$38.00Juniors (Ages 3 - 12)$28.00$32.00Seniors (60+)$28.00$32.00Toddlers (Ages 0 - 2)FreeFree

Is Monterey Bay good for whale watching?

Monterey is one of the best places in the area to go whale watching. The cool waters off the Monterey Bay create the perfect feeding ground for many species of whales. These waters also attract hundreds of whales every year as they migrate north for feeding season.

Is Upper Deck better for whale watching?

Upper Deck allows you to see further out and may have better visibility (great for photographers) while the lower deck is closer to the whales, especially if the whales are curious and decide to “mug” (visit) our boat. Lower Deck near the middle of the boat is better for people who may be prone to sea sickness.

Is whale watching better in morning or afternoon Monterey?

morningWhales are just as likely to be visible in the afternoon as they are in the morning, so, fortunately, there's not really the best time of day for whale watching in Monterey Bay. However, conditions are generally calmer in the morning so that may make it a more enjoyable experience for you.

How much does it cost to go whale watching in California?

PRICESAgeWeekdaysWeekends & HolidaysAdults (Ages 13–59)$32.00$36.00Juniors (Ages 3–12)$26.00$30.00Seniors (60+)$26.00$30.00Toddlers (Ages 0–2)FreeFree

What is the best month for whale watching in California?

In Northern California, your best time to spot gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay sometime between July and October.

What is the best time to go whale watching?

When is the best time to view the whales? The best time of year to view Orca whales is in May through September. If you're looking for humpback whales then we suggest September through January.

How many days do you need in Monterey CA?

I would recommend taking a 4-7 day trip to visit Monterey and the surrounding area. We spent our first day in Monterey exploring the shore, eating as restaurants, and window shopping.

Are there orcas in Monterey Bay?

Orcas are temporary inhabitants of Monterey Bay and migrate continuously along the coast of western North America. Orcas, also known as killer whales, are sighted in the sanctuary year-round with 2-5 unpredictable sightings each month.

When can you see orcas in Monterey?

The best time to see Orcas in Monterey Bay is, well, throughout the entire year! So many seasons and pods overlap that you're bound to spot a few on any given day - however, peak season is from mid-April through mid-May and again later in the year from August to October.

What is the best month for whale watching in California?

In Northern California, your best time to spot gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay sometime between July and October.

What month is best for whale watching?

When is the best time to view the whales? The best time of year to view Orca whales is in May through September. If you're looking for humpback whales then we suggest September through January.

When can you see orcas in Monterey?

The best time to see Orcas in Monterey Bay is, well, throughout the entire year! So many seasons and pods overlap that you're bound to spot a few on any given day - however, peak season is from mid-April through mid-May and again later in the year from August to October.

Where can I see whales from shore in Monterey?

Whale Watching from the Shore Around Monterey Bay Try Point Lobos State Reserve where they pass close to Pinnacle Point, which you can reach by taking the Cypress Grove Trail. You may also see humpback whales offshore near California Highway 1 between Nepenthe Restaurant and the town of Big Sur.

What is the largest whale watching vessel in Monterey?

Princess Monterey Whale Watching has the two largest and finest whale watching vessels on Monterey Bay: the 110ft. Princess Monterey and the 100 ft. Atlantis Monterey. Both vessels are made for your comfort and have indoor heated cabins with large windows for viewing.

How many species of turtles are there in Monterey Bay?

4 species of turtles: Out of only seven species of sea turtles worldwide, Monterey Bay is lucky to have four including the sea turtle and leatherback turtles even though they are not considered residents of the sanctuary. Countless invertebrates and more than 450 species of algae.

What are the animals that live in Monterey Bay?

It is no wonder that the biological richness and unique habitats of Monterey Bay are teeming with wildlife. It is one of the most productive marine ecosystems in the world. Monterey Bay is an underwater treasure full of the tiniest nudibranches to the world’s largest mammal, the blue whale. Monterey Bay resident and transient species including 26 threatened or endangered species consist of: 1 34 species of marine mammals: pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), cetaceans (dolphins and whales) and sea otters 2 130 species of seabirds: birds that spend most of their life feeding and living on the open ocean, coming only to land for breeding 3 345 species of fish: bony fish and cartilaginous fish such as sharks, skates and rays that live in a variety of habitats including kelp forests, sandy bottoms, open water and rocky reefs 4 4 species of turtles: Out of only seven species of sea turtles worldwide, Monterey Bay is lucky to have four including the sea turtle and leatherback turtles even though they are not considered residents of the sanctuary 5 Countless invertebrates and more than 450 species of algae

How long is the Monterey Bay tour?

Every trip is different, so whether it’s your first time or you’re a veteran, come out and see what the magical Monterey Bay will reveal today! Join us on this 2.5-3 hour, fully narrated tour.

Where to whale watch in Monterey?

Princess Monterey Whale Watching is located at the end of the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf #1 in Monterey, CA. From Pacific Coast Highway 1, follow the signs to Fisherman’s Wharf where you will find plenty of parking.

How many species of marine mammals are there?

34 species of marine mammals: pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), cetaceans (dolphins and whales) and sea otters. 130 species of seabirds: birds that spend most of their life feeding and living on the open ocean, coming only to land for breeding.

What animals are on the Inner Harbor cruise?

Join us for a 1 hour bay cruise. Learn about the inner harbor animals and the close to shore eco system featuring the giant kelp forest, sea lions, and sea otters. See historic Cannery Row and our beautiful coastline.

What are the two groups of whales?

Whales, dolphins and porpoises are divided into two groups: toothed and baleen. Baleen whales, such as gray and humpback whales, have hundreds of comb-like plates with stiff bristles growing from the upper jaw to strain small food from huge mouthfuls of water.

How many species of whales are there in Monterey Bay?

Other species can be seen year-round, such as minke whales, killer whales and a variety of dolphins and porpoises. Overall 27 species can be seen in the sanctuary. For recent marine mammal sightings in the Monterey Bay area, visit Sanctuary Cruises or Monterey Bay Whale Watch.

What do whales eat in the sanctuary?

Whales, dolphins, and seabirds concentrate in the sanctuary to feed on an abundance of krill, fish, and squid supported by these intense plankton blooms. These extremely rich waters are centered along the submarine canyons that come close to shore—the perfect place for whales and dolphins to feed.

Do humpback whales swim?

Humpback whales are often curious and may swim right alongside, even rolling side-ways to look up at people. Dolphins and porpoises frequent the bay year-round and seeing several thousand is not an uncommon experience. They are very active and often swim next to a boat, leaping high out of the water beside it.

What is the purpose of the N orthwest winds?

During the spring and summer, n orthwest winds push the surface water offshore, replacing it with cold water from greater depths. These waters are rich in nutrients, fueling the growth of plankton—the basis for the sanctuary's rich marine food chain.

Is a gray whale endangered?

Now many species have made a strong recovery. Gray whales are no longer endangered, and humpback and blue whale numbers have increased quite a bit. This means you are very likely to see whales and dolphins on a sanctuary whale-watching trip. And you never know what species you may see.

Can you see dolphins from shore?

That means you don't have to go out very far to see them. In fact, it's not even uncommon to spot whales and dolphins from shore. Some species come here seasonally, such as grays, humpbacks and blue whales. Other species can be seen year-round, such as minke whales, killer whales and a variety of dolphins and porpoises.

What is the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary?

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary — composed of tide pools, coastal wetlands, and a deep submarine canyon — attracts animals from all over the world. It’s the largest protected ocean area in the continental U.S. and an ideal habitat for many species of marine mammals, seabirds, shorebirds, and fish. Some of the most popular residents of the sanctuary are, of course, whales!

Where to see whales in Monterey Bay?

Monterey Bay is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. The deep submarine canyon near the shore is home to a variety of marine life, and we spot whales here every day of the year.

What are the most common killer whales in Monterey Bay?

Orcas (Killer Whales) The most spotted killer whale in Monterey Bay is the transient killer whale. They hunt seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises, and gray whale calves, as well as minke whales. However, keep in mind that killer whale sightings are much less likely than humpbacks.

How long is a whale watching trip in Monterey?

How Long Is the Whale Watching Trip. The morning whale watching tour in Monterey Bay lasts between 3.5 to 4 hours. The afternoon tour has a shorter duration and takes between 2.5 and 3 hours. The morning trips are longer because the crew is searching the area to make plans for the best afternoon route.

Where do humpback whales live in winter?

Winter: Humpback whales usually spend the winter season in the coastal waters of Mexico and Central America and not in the waters of Monterey Bay, California. That means they are not as abundant here as between spring and fall. However, you can still spot Humpback whales in the winter months.

Where to see whales in Monterey?

Whale Watching from Monterey Shore. It’s possible to see whales from the shore at Monterey Bay. Especially, humpback whales are frequently spotted from the coast. Places for sightings are Asilomar State Beach, Point Sur Lighthouse, and near Highway 1.

When is the best time to see whales in Monterey Bay?

The best time for whale watching in Monterey Bay is in the winter months, between December and May. You can spot humpback whales and the fascinating gray whales during that period. However, Monterey in California is an excellent year-round whale watching destination, as you can spot those many whales all year long from January to December.

When do dolphins come to Monterey Bay?

Monterey Bay offers great whale sightings in the winter months (December – February) and the spring months (March-May) Dolphins: While Risso’s dolphins can be seen year-round, species such as common dolphins are spotted in the winter months in impressive numbers at Monterey Bay.

When is whale watching season in Monterey?

The Monterey whale watching season for gray whales runs from December to May, with peak times in January and March. They migrate to California during the winter to give birth to calves. Humpback whales can be spotted year-round in Monterey Bay.

Why do whales go to Monterey Bay?

Hundreds of them choose Monterey Bay waters because of the variety of food available. These whales are also the ones to entertain an audience and are considered the most playful among cetaceans. Depending on the year, humpback whales are in Monterey Bay from March through November. But in the summer months, the chances of meeting them increase.

What is the largest animal in the world?

Weighing more than 200 tons and 98,4 ft (30 m) in length, blue whales are the largest animals known to have ever existed! In Monterey Bay, they appear from May through October to hunt for tiny shrimp-like snacks called krill. Visit Monterey Bay in July or August, and you won't miss these grand creatures.

Where do gray whales go?

So it's impossible to confuse them with any other mammals. Each year they travel for over 10,000 mi (160 km) from Alaska to the Mexican shore. But from December through mid-February, they are usually spotted in waters near Monterey Bay.

Is Monterey Bay a whale feeder?

Monterey, CA . Monterey Bay is a feeding and migrating destination for various whale species all year long. But in the spring and summer months, the lagoons of Monterey Bay become especially busy.

What is Chris' whale watching?

With Chris’ Whale Watching, you’ll get up close and personal with the whales, and may even be splashed as they come up for air and do a somersault for the onlookers. Our trips guarantee whale sightings! This means that you won’t be standing on the deck wondering if you saw a whale or not.

When do whale watching trips leave Monterey Bay?

Our experienced skippers are on the water daily and will take you to the best action. Whale watching trips leave at 10am and 1:30pm.

Is whale watching a good activity in Monterey?

Going whale watching is a perfect activity in the Monterey area and should not be missed. Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural environment is sure to entertain and enthrall everyone.

What to do in Monterey?

One of the best things to do in Monterey is to join one of the whale watching trips offered year-round by Monterey Bay Whale Watch. These trips allow you to observe the spectacular diversity and abundance of whales and dolphins inhabiting the Bay. Monterey is the best place in the nation to view a variety of marine mammals and seabirds.

Where to see whales in Monterey?

Monterey is the best place in the nation to view a variety of marine mammals and seabirds. The Monterey Submarine Canyon approaches close to the shore at Moss Landing, allowing deep water species of whales, dolphins, and seabirds to occur near the coast. Shallow water species, such as the Gray Whale, are found very close to shore in ...

Is there whale watching in Monterey Bay?

The tours at Monterey Bay Whale Watch focus on learning about the w hales and their environment, as well as conserving their habitat and being respectful towards them as living beings — the same ...

Who is Joshua Horwitz?

Joshua Horwitz is the author of War Of The Whales, which narrates the battle between conservationists and the U.S. military over the use of high-intensity sonar in whale habitats.

What is the largest whale watching vessel in Monterey Bay?

Princess Monterey Whale Watching has the 2 largest and finest whale watching vessels on Monterey Bay – the 100ft. Princess Monterey and the 100 ft. Greatland. Both vessels are made for your comfort and…

What are the whales that live in Monterey Bay?

Experience Monterey Bay like never before through one of the maginfecnt whale watching tours. Tours are not limited to Gray, Blue and Humpback whales ! You will have the chance to encounter dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, sunfish (Mola Mola) and other marine life.

What is fast raft?

Fast Raft Marine Eco-Tours and Private Charter is a great choice for those looking for a more intimate tour. With Fast Raft, passengers will be aboard a zodiac boat that only seats six and allows you to be eye level with the ocean in front of you.

Where to whale watch in California?

Monterey Bay is one of the most spectacular places for whale watching in California and the whole U.S. Agencies are just itching to take excited wannabe whale watchers out on the gorgeous ocean to make that fantasy a reality. Boat charters and whale-watching tours are lined up along Monterey’s beaches and docks. Some of the best tours and agencies in Monterey are known for either their professionalism, skills, knack for knowing all the best spots for spotting migrating whales, or all of the above.

Where to whale watch in Monterey?

You’ll have to decide if you want to capture these sea mammals in their natural habitat from the land or while on the water yourself. Land tours are great because all you need is a decent pair of binoculars and a good rock or bench to perch on. One of the best places to do this is right off of Cannery Row. Countless sightings of whales can be seen from the shore of Cannery Row and a lot of times even from the shops and restaurants that hug the shoreline. Whale watching from the land is also great for those who tend to get seasick while traveling by boat or those who have other special needs.

Is there a right way to go whale watching in Monterey Bay?

All in all, soaking in all the wonder whales give off is really the most important part when it comes to whale watching. There’s not exactly one right or wrong way to go whale watching in Monterey Bay, because it’s essentially the mecca of whale watching in California. If you keep that in mind along with our guide, you’ll be spotting humpbacks and blue whales in no time.

The Sanctuary Offers Some of The World's Best Year-Round Whale Watching!

See more on montereybay.noaa.gov

Easy and Exciting encounters

Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises in The Sanctuary

Whale Watching Boat Trip Information

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