Island Whale Watching
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Port
Santa Barbara, California, US
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$170
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
For some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the world, look no further than the waters off the port city of Santa Barbara. Nestled on southern-facing coast and sheltered behind the Channel Islands, it is an ideal corridor for whale migration. In fact, 27 different types of whales and dolphins inhabit the Santa Barbara Channel at various times of the year.
Step aboard a state-of-the-art, high-speed catamaran and set off across the sparkling waters of the Pacific for a smooth, stable cruise. Do your whale watching from within the luxurious, teak-paneled cabin equipped with booth seating and large tinted windows perfect for optimal wildlife viewing. Or take your place on a viewing platform on the bow or top deck, basking in the sun and enjoying the brisk sea breeze as you scan the waters for telltale whale spouts.
The Channel Islands is a small archipelago of five islands, once home to the Chumash Natives -- some of the first people to inhabit North America. These islands teem with wildlife. Marvel at the thousands of birds, including cormorants, gulls and the endangered California brown pelican nesting among the craggy rock formations. Keep a keen eye out for California sea lions and harbor seals too.
You will journey into the Painted Cave -- one of the largest and deepest sea caves in the world -- named for its colorful rock types, lichens, and algaes.
Nothing can describe the thrill you will feel if you are lucky enough to spot a magnificent whale spouting or breaching -- sending glistening droplets of water spraying into the air to capture the sunlight before returning to the ocean. Winter and spring outings usually offers views of gray whales that pass during their annual migration. Humpback and blue whales enter the channel to feed from May until fall. Whatever species you encounter, you will surely come away richer for the experience of coming face to face with this magnificent mammal that has inspired songs, literature and sea lore throughout time.
Please note: Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. Dress warmly in layers as it can be cooler on the water.