What time of day is best for whale watching in Monterey?

This is great if you or someone in your group is prone to seasickness. The gentler winds in the morning make the whole experience more enjoyable, and the flatter waters make it easier to spot whales and other marine life! Morning whale watching tours also tend to be a little longer, giving you more time on the water.



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Whales are generally most active in the morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to spot them. During the morning, whales tend to be more active as they start their day and may feed. As the day progresses and the sun sets, whales become more active as they prepare to rest for the night.

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Calm Waters: Mornings often offer relatively calmer waters due to reduced wind activity. This can enhance your whale-watching experience by providing more stability and a smoother ride, allowing for better observation and photography opportunities.

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We were able to see over 20 humpback whales, dall's porpoises, and a small mola mola, not to mention a ton of sea lions feeding among the whales. The boat was nice and not crowded, and the company did a great job making sure everyone followed proper safety protocol for covid-19. I would definitely recommend!

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In the early 1980s, bottlenose dolphins were first observed in Monterey Bay. This species is now considered a resident and usually stays within one km of shore along sandy beaches, travelling just outside the breakers.

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Time: Approximately 2.5 – 3 hours. Usually a whale watching tour takes anywhere between 2.5 to 3 hours in order to navigate the ocean in search of different whale species.

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Although not required, a gratuity for your guide is a great way to show your appreciation for their outstanding service. Guiding is a hospitality industry comparable to that of a server at a restaurant. 10% – 20% gratuity is a good general rule, depending on how amazing your guide was.

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