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Capt. Dave's Blog

Outdoor Activities

Can You See Whales from the Shore in Dana Point?

Seeing whales from the shore is not an uncommon sighting and has made Dana Point, California, the Whale Watching Capital of the World®. South Orange County is home to some of the country’s best whale watching off Dana Point because our oceans are filled to the brim with various species of dolphins and whales, pinnipeds,…

What Should You Look for When Watching Whales?

More than 139,397,000 miles of salty seawater cover just over 70% of planet earth. With so many miles of ocean, it can feel overwhelming just thinking about how to spot whales amongst the vast miles of waves and swell. Searching what can feel like an endless sea, looking for any sign of life, can be…

What Do You Wear and What to Bring on a Whale Watching Tour

Whether you are planning an upcoming trip or you already have one booked and you’re ready to climb aboard, there are a few essentials for boating you’ll ‘dolphinately‘ want to bring with you on the day of your dolphin and whale watching experience. To ensure the best whale watching possible, be sure to read our list below of…

Are Whale Watches Fun?

Have you ever wondered, “is whale watching worth it?” According to the Animal Welfare Institute, “…over 13 million people across over 100 countries go whale watching every year.” So, is whale watching fun? Yes! “To have a huge, friendly whale willingly approach your boat and look you straight in the eye is, without doubt, one of the most…

10 Things That Are Amazing About Pacific White-Sided Dolphins

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…

What’s it like to be a Marine Naturalist in the Whale Watching Capital of the World

“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…

Super-Safe Whale Watching in the United States

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…

See Whales Up Close on an Unforgettable Whale Watching Tour

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…

Southern California Christmas Events

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…

Whale Watching in December

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…

Gift an unforgettable dolphin and whale watching experience! With year-round whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and more, any time is a great time for your recipient to enjoy their gift.

“Our experiences are a bigger part of ourselves than our material goods…” – Dr. Thomas Gilovich