Whale-watching cruises range from a two-hour jaunt out of a local harbor to multi-day cruises to Baja, Mexico. In winter, you can find a whale-watching cruise leaving from harbors and marinas from Seattle to San Diego.
Choosing a Whale-Watching Cruise Company
The quality of whale-watching trips varies widely. Asking a few questions may help you find one that best meets your needs:
- Is the boat Coast Guard certified?
- Do they use a sighting network?
- Will a naturalist be on board? What is their training?
- How long will the trip last?
- What is available on the ship? Is there is a galley or snack bar, or should bring your own food?
- Are they a member of a Whale Watching Operators Association (a group with stringent self-regulations)?
- Will they take you out again for free if you don't see a whale?
Tips for a Comfortable Whale-Watching Trip
- Dress warmly, in layers. Any time of year, it will be colder out on the water than it is on the shore.
- In winter, you may want to bring gloves or mittens (an extra pair of socks make a good emergency substitute).
- Even if it isn't raining, some of the smaller boats can kick up quite a spray. Bring a waterproof jacket with a hood.
- Wear sunscreen, no matter what the weather. Even if you sit in the shade, 60% of the sunlight bounces back up from the water's surface, and you can sunburn even under cloudy skies.
- Wear sunglasses. The glare from the water can give you a headache.
- Wear a hat or visor to shade your eyes.
- Young children can get bored on a whale-watching trip. Bring along something to entertain them.
Motion Sickness Tips
- The earlier in the day you go, the smoother the ride will be. The wind often picks up and causes choppiness later in the day.
- Be prepared. If you're prone to motion sickness, bring your favorite remedies.
- Eat lightly, and avoid greasy foods, alcohol and carbonated beverages.
- If you find yourself getting queasy, find a place to sit on deck where you can get lots of fresh air and see the horizon. Try to keep your eyes focused on it.
