Whale Watching Excursions
Dana Wharf Whale Watching
(800) 979-3370 or (800) 590-9994 | www.danawharf.com
The originator of Whale Watching in Orange County since 1971. Take an adventure cruise to see the California Gray Whales in their natural environment. Fun for all ages and sightings of whales or dolphins are guaranteed or come back again and ride free. Excursions depart every hour from 8 AM to 4 PM during the Festival weekends and every trip is approx. 2 hours. Prices: Adults $45, Senior and Military $35, Children 3-12 years $25, Children 2 and under are free. Back by popular demand – The Whale of a Deal at 8 AM. All seats just $15 – weekends only, hurry the best deal in town sells out fast. Check out our schedule and purchase online http://www.zerve.com/DanaWharf/OceanAdv use a promo code FOW13 save $8 per adult fare, not valid on 8 AM special.
Dana Wharf Whale Watching is also hosting a special two-hour Whale Watching excursion following their Marine Mammal Lecture both weekends at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM. A variety of guest marine biologists will present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals aboard their 63-foot, state-of-the-art OCean Adventures catamaran – featuring an incredibly spacious viewing deck and full-service deli-style gallery – for those that want a one-on-one educational experience, hurry these trips sell out. Prior to the 11:30 AM departure, a special lecture session from 10 AM to 11 AM and continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s will be included with all 11:30 AM reservations. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for children 3 – 12 and free for children under 2. ( no senior rate on this one sorry ) For reservations call 800-979-3370 or 800-590-9994 or visit www.danawharf.com
Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Cruises
(949) 496-2274 | www.ocean-institute.org
More than just a whale watch, this cruise introduces participants to whales and many other marine animals using state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers, and video microscopes. Experience these magnificent animals and learn about feeding strategies, migration, and behavior patterns. Cruise times are 10 AM and 1:30 PM on Festival weekends. Member pricing is $22/adult and $19/child (4 – 12 years old). Non-member pricing is $35/adult and $22/child (4 – 12 years old). Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase.
Capt. Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Safari
(949) 488-2828 | dolphinsafari.com
Most unique Whale Watch in the world! Be one of the pod in our two exclusive Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods – it feels like swimming with wild dolphins and whales but without getting wet. Our hi-speed, hi-tech, catamaran sailboat comfortably carries only 49 passengers or our smaller more intimate catamaran carries 20 passengers so our trips are never crowded. Hear below the surface with research hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live, including Capt. Dave Anderson, whose award winning film on Wild Dolphins & Whales has drawn people worldwide to Dana Point. The fronts of our boats are low to the water to get you up close and personal with the animals and on board whale and dolphin micro-museum is fun and educational. Trips are broadcast LIVE on WhaleWatchingTV.com so you can wave to family and friends! And we saved the best for last – Mrs. Captain Dave’s yummy triple fudge brownies are served as a special treat on the ride back. Mention this ad for 10% discount. Good during Festival of Whales only.
Headlands Conservation Park
If you’re interested in getting a glimpse of these majestic leviathans from land, be sure to visit the Headlands Conservation Park. The Park includes a public trail system, over three miles in length, and links all the parks and open space areas of the Headlands. The system includes pedestrian trails, coastal and beach access, scenic overlooks and the Nature Interpretive Center. The parks and trails can be reached either off of Green Lantern or at Dana Strand Rd., limited parking is available along these streets or at the Nature Interpretive Center parking lot. The trails are open from 7 a.m. to sunset daily. The Nature Interpretive Center is located adjacent to the Headlands Conservation Park, at the terminus of Street of the Green Lantern. Center Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM. From Dana Point Harbor visitors may take the FREE shuttle to the Ocean Institute and then proceed up Cove Road to the Park. It’s a good work out for those looking for a little adventure and some spectacular views!