Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?

Warm clothes! Even if it’s a warm and sunny summer day, the open ocean is always much cooler. Jackets are definitely recommended. Don’t forget any clothes and accessories that help protect you from the sun and wind. A rule of thumb if you can’t decide: it’s better to be over prepared than under. 

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What kind of tours do you offer?

We have a variety of options for novices and veterans alike, with a 6-32 passenger maximum occupancy for all tours depending on boat! All of our trips utilize small high-speed vessels that are open to all of the elements of the Pacific!

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How do I book a tour? 

Visit our “Book Now” tab on our home page. Then, choose your desired experience to check available dates and times, and follow the prompts that follow.

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Can I book a private charter?

Yes! We offer private charters. You can email info@gonewhalewatching.com, or call (858) 500-2568 to book. Please be prepared with your desired date and time when contacting us, so we can let you know of our availability. 

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Is there a bathroom?

There is not a bathroom available on our weekday Signature 2.5 hour trips, please plan accordingly. There is a bathroom available on our extended trips. Weekend Signature trips aboard our new vessel "Hana Hou" will have a restroom available.

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What should I bring?

• Warm clothes

• Sunscreen or sunblock (bonus points if it’s reef safe!)

• Sunglasses 

Due to the length of our 2.5 hour trips, we don’t recommend bringing any food or drink, unless completely necessary. 

 

Additional items to bring on extended trips:

• Food and drink (not provided by GWW)

• Form of payment for the remainder of your trip cost (if not already paid in full).

 

*Please do NOT bring any glass or any dark-staining liquids on board. If you plan on bringing a drink onto the boat, make sure your cup has a secure lid. 

 

What if my trip is canceled due to weather?

We understand it’s disappointing to have a trip canceled, but your safety is our top priority.  In the event of a cancellation, we will contact you for rebooking or refund options. Our experienced captains use their best judgment when analyzing weather conditions, and will only cancel if necessary. 

 

Is there a minimum or maximum age for passengers?

The minimum age for our Signature Dolphin and Whale Watching Trip is 5 years of age.
The minimum age for our various Extended Trips is 16 years of age.

We do not currently have a maximum age for our boats, but please be advised that these are small vessels that can reach speeds of up to 40 mph. To maintain the safety of our passengers, we ask, please do not book if you have neck or back issues, are pregnant, or are uncomfortable with the possibility of rough sea conditions.

 

What will I see?

One of the best parts of exploring San Diego waters is the abundance and variety of our marine life! Different species have higher sightings rates during specific times of the year. Visit our “What We See” page for what we can spot during certain months. 

 

How close will I get?

It’s important to us that we obey and uphold the laws put in effect to protect the animals we encounter. We maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards, and never closely approach an animal at a high speed. There are times when the animals get slightly more curious than usual. When these special (and dare we say, our favorite!) moments occur, we will turn off our motors, and allow the animal to come to us on its own terms. 

The exception to this rule? Dolphins! You’re likely to get these friendly and social animals riding off our bows and sterns, and even giving us a splash! Don’t worry, this speedy species can go a lot faster than us.
 

Are sightings guaranteed?

While we pride ourselves on our sightings records and ability to cover a vast amount of ground (increasing your chances for encounters with marine life)… we can not guarantee sightings on our Signature Dolphin and Whale Watching tour. However, we have the highest sightings success rate in San Diego! Whale sightings ARE guaranteed on extended style tours.

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How do you maintain safety on the boat?

You will receive a safety speech from your United States Coast Guard Certified Captain before leaving the dock. Different boats in our fleet have different rules, but a few things remain the same across the board:

*Each boat is fully equipped with USCG approved, Type I life jackets for all passengers (including children*) and crew members, as well as up to date safety devices and tools required by law. 

*Federal law requires children under the age of 13 to wear their life jacket at all times.

*We require passengers to sit only where allowed, and remain seated while the boat is underway. 

 

Will I get seasick?

If you have a history of seasickness or motion sickness, please be advised that not all days on the water are calm and glassy. If you know you are prone to nausea while on boats, we recommend taking all necessary precautions and/or medications before coming aboard. However, you are much less likely to get seasick on small boats like ours.

 

When should I arrive?

We recommend getting to the dock 30 minutes early. We’re located near popular marinas and bays, and we suggest leaving ample time to account for any unforeseen traffic or parking issues. 

 

Running late? Please call us at 858-500-2568 at least fifteen minutes prior to your boarding time. Note that if you’re due to arrive later after your scheduled departure, we may have to leave as a courtesy to all other passengers. 

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Can I take pictures?

Yes! We encourage it. Please keep in mind that when you’re on the ocean, there’s always a chance to get wet! Bring proper housing and casing for all valuables, cameras, and electronics.

 

Did we not cover your question? Shoot us an email at info@gonewhalewatching.com, or call us at (858) 500-2568, and we will get back to you as soon as we can. *Please do not use social media to inquire about bookings!