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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Dana Point, CA/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Whale Watching/
    5. Private Boat Whale Watching with Expert Guide
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    Private Boat Whale Watching with Expert Guide

    Enjoy a private boat with a captain and marine life expert to spot whales and dolphins off Dana Point

    From$1,929

    Duration

    2 Hours

    Ideal For

    1 to 45 people

    Includes

    Captain, Marine life expert

    Highlights

    Get the whole boat to yourself for a private whale watching adventure from Dana Point. Spot whales, dolphins, and coastal views as a Captain and Marine Life Expert narrate your 2-hour experience.

    • Spot whales, dolphins and other sea life
    • Enjoy sweeping coastal views of Dana Point
    • Learn from a Captain and Marine Life Expert
    • Experience a private 2-hour charter
    • Hear live narration throughout the trip

    What's Included

    • Captain
    • Marine Life Expert

    Things to know

    All ages welcome. Private charters accommodate up to 45 passengers.

    Cancellation policy

    Non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled. The operator may cancel up to an hour before start for severe weather. If minimums are not met, you will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

    Meeting location

    34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629

    Experience provided by Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing
    Experience provided by Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #VN6RXV

    26-45 Passengers

    $1,929.20

    2 Hours | All Ages

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

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    4.8 stars• 6.9K reviews

    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    6.9K reviews•Google Maps

    Dana Wharf delivers consistently excellent whale watching experiences with a crew that clearly knows their stuff. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable captains and friendly staff who engage with passengers throughout trips, providing educational commentary about marine life. The operation runs professionally and punctually, and they offer various experiences beyond standard tours, including special events with live music, wine, and charter fishing trips. Here's the thing about whale sightings: they're not guaranteed, and many recent visitors didn't spot any whales. But that didn't dampen anyone's enthusiasm. Guests were thrilled by multiple pods of dolphins putting on spectacular shows, jumping, racing alongside the boat, and surfing in the wake. The crew's expertise shines in finding marine life and creating memorable experiences regardless of what appears. With spacious boats that don't feel crowded and staff that go out of their way to be helpful, this is clearly a well-run operation that keeps people coming back for repeat visits.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Absolutely MAGNIFICENT Whale Watching Experience! My son and I had the most incredible time on our whale watching trip with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in Dana Point! This experience was truly magical and a highlight of our time in Southern California. From the moment we set out, the views were breathtaking. The ocean water was a stunning crystal blue, and the magnetic view of the beautiful California mountains along the coast was unforgettable. The wildlife sightings were phenomenal! We were treated to a massive pod of dolphins, and it was pure joy watching them leap and jump out of the ocean right next to our boat. Seeing a majestic whale was the perfect climax to the adventure. The video I took only captures a fraction of the excitement—being there in person to witness these magnificent creatures was awe-inspiring! Beyond the incredible sights, the experience was elevated by the exceptional customer service. The entire crew was truly fantastic, and we especially appreciated having the on-board naturalist (photographer) who was so knowledgeable. They shared wonderful facts and information about the different ocean creatures we were seeing, adding so much context and educational value to the trip. This boat ride is absolutely worth the ride and worth every penny! If you're looking for an amazing, family-friendly adventure with a professional and friendly crew, you must book a trip with Dana Wharf. My son and I made memories we will cherish forever. We can't wait to go again!

    Photo of Irfan Chaudhary

    Irfan Chaudhary

    October 8, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Absolutely MAGNIFICENT Whale Watching Experience! My son and I had the most incredible time on our whale watching trip with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in Dana Point! This experience was truly magical and a highlight of our time in Southern California. From the moment we set out, the views were breathtaking. The ocean water was a stunning crystal blue, and the magnetic view of the beautiful California mountains along the coast was unforgettable. The wildlife sightings were phenomenal! We were treated to a massive pod of dolphins, and it was pure joy watching them leap and jump out of the ocean right next to our boat. Seeing a majestic whale was the perfect climax to the adventure. The video I took only captures a fraction of the excitement—being there in person to witness these magnificent creatures was awe-inspiring! Beyond the incredible sights, the experience was elevated by the exceptional customer service. The entire crew was truly fantastic, and we especially appreciated having the on-board naturalist (photographer) who was so knowledgeable. They shared wonderful facts and information about the different ocean creatures we were seeing, adding so much context and educational value to the trip. This boat ride is absolutely worth the ride and worth every penny! If you're looking for an amazing, family-friendly adventure with a professional and friendly crew, you must book a trip with Dana Wharf. My son and I made memories we will cherish forever. We can't wait to go again!

    Photo of Irfan Chaudhary

    Irfan Chaudhary

    October 8, 2025

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