Capt. Dave's Blog

The Pacific white-sided dolphin has so many standout characteristics – we can’t wait to share with you “b-low! Often referred to as “Lags,” a shortened version of their scientific name Lagenorhynchus obliquidens, these vivacious and gregarious bi-colored oceanic dolphins have striking blackish grey and white markings and always wear a friendly smile you won’t forget. Passengers often…

Balloon safety is critical in keeping our oceans safe and clean for many sea birds, whales, dolphins, turtles, sea lions, seals, sharks, fish, and more! The simple act of watching a balloon float into the sky causes fatal harm to curious ocean animals living down below the ocean’s surface. Nothing says “let’s celebrate” like a bouquet…

Gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus), are known as the California gray whale because these whales travel down our stunning California coastline every year on their way to the lagoons of Mexico each winter. Their annual trip down our coastline may be our favorite part of this whale’s migration and one of several highlights of some pretty…

“What is it that you do for work?” A normal question most people get when meeting or getting to know  someone for the first time. A small smile always crosses my lips right before I answer, knowing the shocked or  confused face that will follow as I answer, “I’m a Marine Mammal Naturalist with Dana…

Today, we would like to tell you a little story. As you read the words below, we ask you to place yourself on the water’s edge and join us on a journey by the sea. Here we go…. You cast out your various types of fishing line as you stand upon the jetty just above…

Is the thrill of riding the crest of open ocean waves calling out to you? Then visit the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World® in Dana Point, CA. Bring your friends and family on an educational, safe and, exhilarating trip out at sea whale watching in the United States aboard Captain Dave’s Dolphin and…

Are you looking for an unforgettable family experience with a chance to see whales and dolphins up close? Read below to learn more about our incredible boating trips, our whale watching FAQs, and what each one of our trips offers our passengers to ensure the next whale watching tour you book is the best one…

If you have been wondering if dolphins are whales, the answer is…YES! The next question frequently asked is, “are orcas dolphins?” and that answer again is simply…YES! Read on to discover why orcas are dolphins and the different types of killers whales found off the west coast of North America. Orcinus orca is the largest…

The question “is whale watching ethical?” is a big one and extremely important to break down and discuss, because anytime anyone is out on the water, we are ALL visitors to the plentiful marine life living within our world’s stunning oceans and seas. Responsible whale watching in places like Dana Point, California, the Dolphin and Whale Watching…

The overall totals of the Huntington Beach oil spill in Orange County are considerably less than what was originally reported. As a whole, the spill has traveled fewer miles than originally anticipated it could. On Thursday, October 12, 2021, United States Coast Guard Captain Rebecca Ore estimated that “roughly 588 barrels of oil have spilled,…

Feeling a bit like a fish out of water when it comes to what to do for the upcoming holiday season? From dolphin and whale watching safari’s, premiere Southern California Christmas boat parades, holiday light shows, and more, keep reading to find out our list of the top 20 “best places see and do” as…

Winter whale watching in December means more than dazzling holiday lights and festive fun around Dana Point Harbor. Here are our top reasons why whale watching in December will make you want to book your whale watching adventure right now. December means the opportunity to capture a glimpse of the most well-known large baleen whales, see thousands of dolphins…