Whale Watching & Wildlife Eco Tour from San Francisco
- Location:San Francisco, California
- Duration:Varies
- TOUR Code:5311WHALE
Join your captain for an enthralling San Francisco whale watching tour and catch incredible sightings of these magnificent creatures migrating through one of Earth's most unique ecosystems! The Pacific coast adjoining San Francisco and the picturesque Farallon Islands are known for their rich and diverse marine life and you'll discover the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants on this full-day adventure.
The California coastal waters off San Francisco have annual migration patterns for whales. From June to November you'll sail in search of blue and humpback whales, and from December to May you'll have the chance to spot gray, sperm and killer whales! In addition, you'll enjoy gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco skyline and the Farallon Islands from the decks of your eco-friendly catamaran. An exciting and intimate encounter with nature that you'll never forget!
Highlights
- San Francisco Whale Watching Tour from Pier 39
- Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spot a variety of whales!
- Opt for 5-hour Whale Watching Wildlife Tour on weekdays or upgrade to the 6-hour Farallon Islands Natural History Trip at weekends
- See humpback whales, blue whales or killer whales depending on migration season
- Knowledgeable captain, crew and naturalist aboard to answer questions and identify marine wildlife
- Cruise aboard a fully-equipped, stable catamaran
Recent Photos of this Tour
Browse the gallery of recent Whale Watching & Wildlife Eco Tour from San Francisco photos submitted by actual, honest-to-goodness travelers on Viator.
Choose from two thrilling marine adventures depending on the day of the week:
Whale Watching Wildlife Tour (5 hours)
Catch sightings of various whale species, dolphins, porpoises, sea birds and San Francisco's famous sea lions on the 5-hour Whale Watching Wildlife Tour. After you board your vessel and set sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Stinson Beach, Fort Cronkite, Double Point, Muir Beach, Bolinas, and the Point Reyes National Seashore and Lighthouse on your exciting quest for whales.
Farallon Islands Natural History Tour (6 hours)
On this longer tour, you'll sail to the Farallon Islands, approximately 27 miles (43 km) offshore from San Francisco, to experience an extra thrilling whale watching tour. Perfect for boating enthusiasts, this six-hour excursion takes you straight to the Gulf of the Farallones after cruising underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and bypassing California's amazing Pacific coastline.
The Farallon Islands are the perfect spot to see the whales migrating, as they often roam in this area that is densely populated with plankton. It is also not uncommon to see White Sharks as they migrate to the Farallon Islands and feed.
Both tours are taken on the comfortable 65' Catamaran Kitty Kat that features a unique hull design and superior engineering. The Kitty Kat is the most advanced vessel for wildlife expeditions in San Francisco, and features a heated cabin, spacious sun deck, and can sail at high speed! Be sure to pack lunch and beverages, bring a camera and wear warm clothing and sturdy, waterproof shoes for this expedition.
GUARANTEED WHALE SIGHTINGS OR YOUR NEXT TRIP IS FREE!
Schedule Details
San Francisco Whale Watching Tour
Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.
8:00am
Duration:Varies
Return details:Returns to original departure point
Tour and Pricing Options
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Additional Information
- Sightseeing cruise
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Gratuities (optional)
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for pregnant women
- If you are prone to motion sickness, please be prepared and take preventative measures after consulting with a doctor. Keep in mind that this is an intense expedition and the boat will stop at the Farallon Islands which may result in some light rocking
- The whale-watching boat is fully stabilized and its modern technology helps make every trip a great ride
- Boats are equipped with clean restrooms for your convenience
- Wheelchair accessible for passengers with limited mobility
- Dress warm and in layers. Waterproof jackets and comfortable, sturdy shoes are highly recommended
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
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Since 1999, over 3 million travelers have experienced more with Viator!
Witness an array of marine wildlife off the coast of San Francisco.
It was a very good trip, Carol was very knowgeable. I will do it again!!!!! :) Thank you very ... Read more ›
Elena P, April 2012
The tour was wonderful. We saw white sided dolphins and humpback and gray whales. Viator did not ... Read more ›
Rebecca S, December 2011
