Discover the thrill of a lifetime as you embark on a whale watching adventure in the waters off Newport Beach. Aboard a custom-built RIB boat, you’ll enjoy an intimate tour with a maximum of 15 passengers, providing unobstructed 360-degree views of the stunning southern California coastline. With the expertise of knowledgeable crew members, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter majestic whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. From the dramatic cliffs to the secluded coves, this unforgettable experience promises to leave you in awe of the wonders that await beneath the waves.
This experience made our list of the 10 Best Whale Watching Tours In Newport Beach.
Key Points
- Set out on a 2-hour whale watching cruise from Newport Beach to encounter majestic whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Explore the stunning southern California coastline aboard a custom-built RIB boat with 360-degree views and high maneuverability.
- Enjoy an intimate experience with a maximum capacity of 15 people and binoculars provided for closer wildlife observation.
- Witness the thrilling sights of whales breaching, spy-hopping, and dolphins engaging in playful antics, accompanied by expert narration.
- Prices start at $84.50 per person, with the option to pay later when booking, but not recommended for certain groups due to potential motion sickness.
Unforgettable Whale Watching Cruise
Set out on a thrilling 2-hour whale watching cruise from Newport Beach, where you’ll have the chance to encounter majestic whales and dolphins up close in their natural habitat.
The custom-built RIB boat offers 360-degree views, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.
With a maximum capacity of 15 people, you’ll enjoy an intimate and personalized experience as you cruise along the stunning southern California coastline.
Binoculars are provided, allowing you to get a closer look at these magnificent creatures.
Whether you’re a seasoned whale watcher or a first-timer, this adventure is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Newport Beach.
Coastal Scenery and Marine Life
The custom-built RIB boat provides unparalleled views of the stunning southern California coastline, allowing passengers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
Travelers can admire the dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and pristine beaches that line the shore as the vessel cruises along the water.
Along With the breathtaking scenery, the tour offers the chance to spot a variety of marine life. Whales and dolphins are frequently encountered, providing thrilling up-close encounters with these majestic creatures.
The higher chance of sightings on this tour is thanks to the custom boat’s ability to navigate closer to where the wildlife congregates. With the binocular rental included, passengers can observe the animals in detail and capture unforgettable memories.
RIB Boat for 360-Degree Views
This custom-built RIB boat offers passengers 360-degree views of the stunning coastal scenery as it cruises along the water. Its unique design allows for an unparalleled vantage point to observe the dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and pristine beaches that line the southern California shoreline.
The boat’s lightweight and highly maneuverable nature enables it to navigate the area’s narrow waterways, providing guests with an intimate and thrilling experience. With a maximum capacity of just 15 people, the RIB boat ensures an exclusive and personalized whale watching adventure.
Its open-air layout and high-performance features make it the ideal vessel for spotting majestic whales and playful dolphins up close against the breathtaking natural backdrop.
Highlights of the Tour Experience
Guests aboard the custom-built RIB boat can expect an up-close encounter with the gentle giants of the sea – whales – as well as the opportunity to marvel at the stunning coastal scenery of southern California. The thrilling cruise offers a higher chance of sightings, with the boat’s 360-degree views maximizing the likelihood of spotting these majestic creatures.
Highlights | |
---|---|
Whale Sightings | Witness the breathtaking sight of whales breaching the surface or spy-hopping in the distance. |
Dolphin Encounters | Delight in the playful antics of dolphins as they swim alongside the boat. |
Coastal Vistas | Take in the picturesque shores and cliffs that line the southern California coastline. |
Thrilling Ride | Experience the excitement of a custom RIB boat as it glides across the waves. |
Expert Narration | Learn about the local marine life from the knowledgeable crew. |
What’s Included in the Package
For the 2-hour whale watching cruise, guests can typically expect a range of amenities and services included in the package price.
The tour offers:
- A 2-hour cruise aboard a custom-built RIB boat with 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery.
- Fees and taxes to cover the cost of the excursion.
- Complimentary binocular rental, allowing guests to get a closer look at the whales and dolphins.
- The option to purchase drinks during the cruise.
With these inclusions, the whale watching adventure provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for participants. The package is designed to make the most of the limited time on the water and ensure guests can fully enjoy the natural wonders of the Southern California coastline.
Booking Information and Availability
The whale watching tour is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to reserve your spot in advance. Pricing starts at $84.50 per person, and guests can conveniently choose to pay later when booking.
This popular tour departs from Newport Beach, offering a chance to encounter whales and dolphins up close while admiring the stunning coastal scenery. The custom-built RIB boat provides 360-degree views for a thrilling cruise with a higher chance of sightings.
Binocular rental is included, and drinks are available for purchase. Given the tour’s popularity and limited capacity of 15 people, interested travelers should secure their booking as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Important Considerations for Participants
Before booking, guests should be aware that the whale watching tour may not be suitable for certain individuals.
Children under 5, pregnant women, and people with back problems aren’t recommended to participate due to the nature of the excursion.
The custom-built RIB boat, while offering 360-degree views, can be choppy and may not provide the most comfortable experience for those prone to motion sickness.
Plus, the tour involves extended periods of standing and navigating in and out of the boat.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, potential participants should carefully consider the following:
- Age and health restrictions
- Potential for motion sickness
- Physical mobility requirements
- Overall comfort level with the boat and cruise conditions
Meeting Point and Directions
Guests will meet at the Newport Landing Cruises office, which serves as the designated departure point for the whale watching tour. This conveniently located office is situated in Newport Beach, providing easy access for participants.
Guests should arrive at the office around 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour departure time to check-in and get acquainted with the crew. Clear signage will guide visitors to the appropriate meeting area.
From the office, guests will then be escorted to the nearby dock where the custom-built RIB boat is docked and ready to embark on the exciting 2-hour whale watching adventure.
With the meeting point instructions provided, participants can look forward to a seamless start to their memorable tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Cruise?
Yes, passengers are welcome to take photos and videos during the whale watching cruise. The boat’s 360-degree views provide ample opportunities to capture the whales, dolphins, and coastal scenery encountered on the 2-hour excursion.
Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?
The whale watching cruise boat is wheelchair accessible, with a custom-built RIB design that allows easy boarding and movement onboard. Guests with mobility needs are welcome to join the tour and enjoy the close encounters with marine life.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Promotions?
Yes, Newport Landing Cruises offers various discounts and promotions. Seniors, students, military, and children may be eligible for reduced pricing. Group discounts are also available for bookings of 6 or more. Check the website for current special offers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the whale watching cruise. However, the tour operator does not provide any storage or refrigeration, so guests should plan accordingly.
How Long Does It Take to Get to the Whale Watching Site?
The whale watching cruise departs from the Newport Landing Cruises office and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the prime whale watching site. The custom-built RIB boat then spends 2 hours cruising and searching for whales and other marine life.
Recap
Newport Beach’s whale watching tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts. The custom-built RIB boat provides an exhilarating ride and unparalleled views of whales, dolphins, and the stunning coastline.
With knowledgeable crew members and a small group size, this intimate experience offers exceptional wildlife sightings and an unforgettable adventure along the southern California shores.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Whale Watching Tours in Newport Beach
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