Top California Day Cruises

Santa Barbara Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Full Bar

Bypass the line and head directly to the gate with your prebooked tickets for this San Francisco Bay sightseeing cruise. This sunset cruise takes you across the bay with outstanding views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. Relax while background music sets the tone. Watch the sunset or select a city lights cruise during winter months.

(14)

from $65

San Francisco Bay Sunset & City Lights Cruise

(2,008)

from $58

The Santa Barbara coastline is undoubtedly a breathtaking and scenic destination, and a cruise on the Azure Seas yacht is a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of the area. Here are some key points to highlight about this cruise: This cruise provides a unique opportunity to relax and immerse oneself in the natural beauty and charm of Santa Barbara, making it a must-visit experience for both locals and tourists alike. *please note that all Viator bookings are for main deck tickets

Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

1 hourFree Cancellation

(50)

from $38

San Diego Harbor Cruise

Looking for the perfect way to wind down after a busy day in Monterey? Skip the crowds on land and set sail into the sunset on this relaxing evening cruise. Enjoy a drink as you travel across the bay, and soak up unparalleled ocean views. There's even the chance to spot marine life such as sea lions, otters, dolphins, and whales. With great music and a laidback captain at the helm, it’s the perfect way to end your day on a high note.

(3,190)

from $37

Sunset Sailing Cruise in Monterey Bay

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to take in the sights of Los Angeles without having to fight the traffic on land, this Los Angeles brunch cruise from Marina del Rey is an ideal pick. Set sail on the water and enjoy unlimited mimosas, Champagne, and sparkling cider, as you fully indulge in a delicious brunch, complete with starters, a main course, and dessert, too. Plus, your cruise provides live music to listen to as you sail.

4.8

(47)

from $95

City Cruises Los Angeles Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey

City Cruises Los Angeles Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey

See San Francisco’s most famous waterfront landmarks from the water on a bay cruise that combines iconic views with onboard flexibility. Sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, pass Alcatraz Island, and take in panoramic views of the city skyline while listening to stories and insights through an app-based audio guide. With skip-the-line boarding and indoor and outdoor viewing areas, it’s an easy way to experience the bay from a different perspective.

(113)

from $101

San Francisco Bay Cruise

1 hourFree Cancellation

4.4

(372)

from $39

San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

(1,698)

from $71

Deluxe Sunset & Day Sail Small Group

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(305)

from $119

City Cruises San Diego: Scenic 90-Minute Narrated Harbor Tour

San Francisco Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise 90 Minutes

(533)

from $37

City Cruises San Francisco: Premier Brunch Cruise

(664)

from $48

A Champagne Brunch Cruise is a great way to soak up the sights of San Francisco in style.

City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise

4.8

(355)

from $122

This 90-minute cruise set to music will take you from PIER 39 and passes by San Francisco icons, such as the famous California Sea Lions and the Golden Gate Bridge. As the sun sets on the San Francisco Bay and the lights come up in the city, you'll continue to take in the many sights while you go by Angel Island, Sausalito, Tiburon, and the world famous Alcatraz Island. There is no better seat on the Bay to see one of the most beautiful cities in the world turn on its lights. If the timing doesn't work, select from one of our other amazing cruise options available during the day! Don’t miss this breathtaking experience from the best seats on the Bay!

(323)

from $100

San Francisco Sunset Cruise

Swap city sightseeing for some time on the water with this exciting whale-watching cruise. Avoid the guesswork when trying to figure out where to spot whales, and let the experienced crew take you directly to places known for sightings. As well as whales, you may spot sea lions, sea birds, and sometimes dolphins—with commentary from the naturalist guides who can share plenty of facts about marine life.

3.6

(16)

from $39

San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watch Cruise with Legacy Whale Watch

San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watch Cruise with Legacy Whale Watch

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Monterey Whale Watching Tour

(278)

from $34

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

This convenient package gives you access to two separate essential San Francisco experiences—a visit to Alcatraz Island, and a sightseeing cruise. Instead of waiting in long ticket lines, this time-saving option helps you explore San Francisco more efficiently. Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island where you can go inside the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary and enjoy an audio guide. A San Francisco Bay cruise is also included with views of Pier 39's sea lions, the waterfront area, and the city's skyline. Please note, children 4 years old and younger do not need purchased tickets.

(822)

from $70

Special Offer

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

Monterey Bay Whale Watching

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

(339)

from $70

Set sail at one of the best times of day—sunset—during this San Diego Bay cruise. Board a comfortable sailing yacht and cruise along San Diego's coastline, taking in views of the scenic waterfront, military vessels, and historical landmarks. Catch sight of marine life and enjoy spectacular photo ops. Gorgeous sunset views and comfortable bean bag seating makes this tour a great choice for travelers celebrating a special occasion.

Sunset Sail Along the San Diego Skyline

4.9

(634)

from $109

The only all-electric Duffy charter boat in Santa Barbara. Price includes captain. Whisper is USCG certified to carry up to 6 passengers (max). Trip is fully private with your guests only. Bring your own appetizers, beer, and wine (no corkage fee!) This is primarily a harbor-based cruise. When conditions are favorable, Whisper can also go out around Stearns Wharf. Boarding is 5 mins prior to departure. If you miss scheduled departure time, the tour is not extended.

Private Harbor Cruise on Electric Boat in Santa Barbara

Private Harbor Cruise on Electric Boat in Santa Barbara

1 hourFree Cancellation

4.9

(45)

from $189

Per group

San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

No better way than to experience San Francisco Bay from a sailing catamaran.

Cruise off the coast of Orange County in search of whales on this excursion from Newport Beach. Watch the rugged, beautiful scenery of the Pacific Coast glide by as you listen to interesting commentary from your crew about the native California marine life. Watch for blows and tail slaps; these signals indicate that humpback, minke, grey, finback, or giant blue whales are nearby. Dolphins and other marine life are also in abundance during this family-friendly, year-round whale watching tour.

4.9

(646)

from $65

Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

2 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

4.4

(1,012)

from $39

2-Hour Sunset Sail on the San Francisco Bay

Make the most of your weekend with a 2-hour brunch cruise through San Diego Bay. Capture prime views of the city skyline and harbor from a luxury yacht, and round out your morning bliss with bottomless mimosas and our brunch menu service includes breakfast favorites, vegetarian options, and so much more. Indoor seating. Listen to our live entertainment as the attentive crew constantly top off your glass. Shouldn’t weekends always be like this?

(413)

from $129

Champagne Brunch Buffet

Private Harbor Cruise on Electric Boat in Santa Barbara

(369)

from $126

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What are people saying about California

Derek_S, Jun 2026

Oasis on the (low) Seas

If you want a private and romantic harbor cruise with your wife or husband, look no further. This was truly a 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience. The ambiance was amazing. The value is unsurpassed. My wife and I will definitely use Private Harbor Cruises every time we visit Santa Barbara. SIMPLY OUTSTANDING!!!

Luxury Whale Watching: Fewer People, Extra Speed, Expert Staff

Anita_S, Feb 2026

Watching whales

We went on the Catallac which is smaller and faster than some of the other ferries. We only had 11 people on our cruise and it was nice. The boat has a great viewing area in front but we were warned we would get wet on the way back so we went inside. We saw two gray whales and tons of playful dolphins. The crew was informative and made a point of going around so we saw the whales twice. Highly recommend this on a sunny afternoon!

Private Sailing Charter on San Diego Bay

Linda_H, Jan 2026

Beautiful boat & captain

Jason was an amazing captain. We wanted a peaceful ride and the experience did not disappoint. It was a beautiful day with just enough wind, a beautiful boat, a knowledgeable captain, good friends, and good music made for an unforgettable experience. Would do it again!

Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

Shayan_R, Oct 2025

Amazing Blue Waters

Our group was celebrating the union of my husband and I. The group was a bit late and the lady at the front made an accommodation to move us on the next boat trip. We did not know we would get the entire yacht practically to ourselves!! Which was such a gift. We were greeted by lovely staff that guided our trip. There was an entire bar onboard and they made amazing drinks. During the trip my husband got sick and the staff immediately offered him help and moved him to the back where it was most stable. The cherry on top is getting to see dolphins swimming all around us! We will definitely be back! 100/10

Emerald Bay Private Sightseeing Boat Tours

Bonnie_M, Aug 2025

Emerald Bay Cruise

Captain Troy was top notch during this Emerald Bay Cruise! He was very personable, accommodating and made this excursion our favorite part of our Lake Tahoe trip. He gave us history about the lake, as well as stopping and taking family photos. I would highly recommend booking with him if you are considering a Lake Tahoe cruise.

City Cruises Los Angeles Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey

Kimberly_S, Jul 2025

Beautiful brunch on the water

I had such a wonderful experience on the City Cruises Los Angeles brunch cruise in Marina del Rey! From the moment we stepped aboard, the staff made us feel welcome and relaxed. The atmosphere was both elegant and casual—perfect for soaking in the stunning views of the marina and Pacific coastline. The brunch spread was delicious, with a great variety of options to suit everyone's tastes. The champagne and mimosas flowed freely, and the service was top-notch—attentive without being overbearing. The cruise itself was smooth and scenic. We loved watching the sailboats, and coastline homes from the upper deck. It was the perfect balance of leisure and luxury. This experience felt like a mini-vacation and was definitely worth every penny. I highly recommend it for couples, groups, or anyone wanting to enjoy something special in L.A.!