Top Monterey & Carmel Water Tours

Go on a spectacular whale watching tour of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary with your experienced captain narrating the entire way. The boats range from 53’ to 70’, and they are equipped with bathrooms and plenty of seating. Your captain will guide you through the bay and find where the whales are playing. You just need to be ready and waiting with your eyes and cameras.

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.

Discover a new side of Monterey—and get up close and personal with its wetlands and wildlife—on this family-friendly boat tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and hop aboard your electric-powered catamaran. The boat offers up-close views of the Elkhorn Slough, an estuary that’s home to animals ranging from sea lions and otters to bird species and more. Learn more as you go from your naturalist guide.

Take an unforgettable boat ride in Monterey Bay to spot local marine wildlife, from humpback whales to Great white sharks to dolphins. This whale-watching adventure takes you to one of the best spots in the state to spot some of these majestic creatures. Sail over Monterey Bay Canyon, which is a nutrient-rich area known for attracting all kinds of underwater wildlife.

The Elkhorn Slough is home to the largest population of sea otters in California, as well as more than 300 species of birds. Get an overview of the local wildlife with insights from a guide with a degree in marine science on this guided boat tour of the wetland. Enjoy unobstructed views from the vessel, and preserve the memories with souvenirs from a science and nature-themed gift shop.

Enjoy sailing the Monterey Bay without engine noise. You will be offered a complimentary beverage after your captain hoists the sails and catches the wind to make for a peaceful and exciting cruise on the bay. On the way out of the harbor, look out for sea lions, sea otters, and harbor seals. Once you pass the breakwater, the sailing fun begins and you can relax with a beverage while your captain takes care of you. Be sure to be on the look out for whales and dolphins while you sail! Our spacious and comfortable catamaran is the perfect vehicle for exploring the bay and searching for wildlife! You have a chance to see sea otter, sea lions, harbor seals, dolphins and whales!

Book this group tour to spot whales breaching at sunset in Monterey Bay. Each tour is led by a naturalist or marine biologist who helps find the whales and shares facts about them. Sip provided coffee or tea while you cruise for around three hours looking for whales. Alcoholic beverages are not included, and snacks are not provided on this shared tour.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise.

Explore the culinary delights of Carmel, just down the coast from Monterey, on this food and drink walking tour. With a knowledgeable foodie guide, you’ll learn about the history and gourmet culture of Carmel, an upscale enclave known for its charming architecture and cozy, small-town vibe, as you visit local eateries to sample locavore and ethnic dishes, chocolate, and cocktails or spirits. Limited to 16 people, this tour provides a small-group experience with personalized attention.

Enjoy an immersive nature experience—and give yourself the best chance of spotting whales and other marine wildlife—on this half-day boat tour of Monterey Bay. Monterey is the premier destination in Northern California for winter whale-watching, and your naturalist guides know the best places to spot them. Along the way, learn about the majestic animals, and look out for whales, dolphins, sea lions, sea birds, and more.

Drive through the streets of Monterey and Pacific Grove in a Sea Car, a 2-seat vehicle with GPS-enabled tour narrative. Skip renting a car and make your own way around Fisherman's Wharf, Lover's Point, and Cannery Row.

This Carmel Valley wine trolley tour stands out by offering tastings at three wineries, lunch, and beautiful views. Take a scenic ride from Monterey to Carmel Valley Village aboard a vintage trolley or high-top van. Visit well-known producers and get an introduction to lesser-known gems in the area with an insider's perspective from your guide. Have lunch at one of two spots nearby before returning to Monterey.