San Diego is known for its beautiful coastline, and what better way to experience it than with a boat tour?
Whether you're a local looking for a new adventure or a tourist visiting for the first time, there are plenty of options to choose from.
From sunset cruises to whale watching excursions, San Diego's boat tours offer a unique perspective of the city and its stunning surroundings.
With so many tours to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to go on. That's why we've created a list of the best boat tours in San Diego that are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable experience.
Each tour has its own unique features and highlights, so it's important to consider what you're looking for. Do you want to see marine life up close or catch a beautiful sunset? Are you interested in learning about the city's history or just want to relax and enjoy the ride?
Whatever your preferences may be, there's a boat tour in San Diego that's perfect for you. So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to set sail on an adventure you won't forget!
1. Adventure Whale Watching San Diego Tours
Adventure Whale Watching San Diego Tours offers a fantastic whale watching experience. The check-in process is quick and easy, and the boat is comfortable with padded seats.
Captain Rick is an excellent guide who points out interesting areas and takes guests straight to the whales, which surface multiple times.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to ride alongside a pod of dolphins, which is a truly amazing experience.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see these majestic animals up close. Don't forget to buy a t-shirt as a souvenir!
2. Waterhorse Charters
Waterhorse Charters is a highly recommended boat tour agency that offers a range of adventure sports and sightseeing tours.
Their professional crew is knowledgeable and helpful, ensuring that guests feel safe and prepared before embarking on their journey. Whether you're a beginner diver or an experienced one, Waterhorse Charters has something for everyone.
With a variety of dive sites to choose from, you'll be sure to have a great time exploring the underwater world.
Additionally, their whale watching tours are a must-see for any nature lover. Book your trip with Waterhorse Charters today and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
3. Sail San Diego
Sail San Diego offers a 3-hour small group tour of San Diego Bay, providing a comfortable boat equipped with a bathroom and kitchen.
The knowledgeable and friendly captain ensures the guests' comfort on deck with cushioned seating and blankets.
The tour offers sightings of sea lions, dolphins, seals, and beautiful boats.
Customers highly recommend Sail San Diego's sailboat tour, and many plan to visit again.
4. San Diego Speed Boat Adventures
San Diego Speed Boat Adventures is a thrilling boat tour agency that offers an exciting way to explore the bay area.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they provide clear instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
The boats are easy to drive and can reach speeds of up to 30mph, providing a unique perspective of the harbor.
The tour guides are informative and offer a chance to see sea lions, navy ships, and other landmarks up close. This is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area who wants to try something new and exciting.
5. Next Level Sailing
Next Level Sailing is a boat tour agency that offers whale watching tours on the yacht America. The booking process is easy and affordable.
The crew is excellent, making the trip comfortable, fun, and interesting. Guests can move freely around the boat during the sail. The yacht America has a 170-year sailing experience and boasts a claim to fame.
On the tour, guests can learn about the history of the ship. The highlight of the tour is the chance to see whales.
Guests have seen two blue whales on multiple occasions about 9 miles out from the marina. All around, Next Level Sailing offers a great experience for those looking to add to their trip to San Diego.
6. Zolna Yachts
Zolna Yachts offers an exceptional boat tour experience that is worth every penny. The staff is professional, friendly, and knowledgeable about the area.
The yacht is well-maintained and equipped with everything you need to have a comfortable trip.
The tour includes stunning views of the harbor, and the sunset cruise is particularly breathtaking.
Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, Zolna Yachts is the perfect choice. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area.
7. America's Cup Sailing San Diego
Experience the thrill of sailing on an authentic racing yacht and see the sights of San Diego from the water with America's Cup Sailing San Diego.
Guests get a chance to take the wheel and grind the sails while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the bay.
The crew is experienced and knowledgeable, and the boat has a rich history in the America's Cup.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure on the water in San Diego!
8. Paddle Pub San Diego
Paddle Pub San Diego offers a unique and fun experience for groups looking for something different to do.
With a BYOB policy, customers can bring their own drinks and snacks while enjoying the scenic views of the area. The boat tour is perfect for large groups and private tours are available.
The captain is knowledgeable about the area and provides fun tidbits about the surroundings.
Customers have reported seeing dolphins and even getting a front row show to fireworks. Highly recommended for a fun and memorable outing with friends.
9. Offshore Blue Adventures
Offshore Blue Adventures offers a fantastic whale watching boat tour experience. With a sturdy and fast boat, guests can easily reach the locations where whales are spotted.
The captain, Christine, is friendly and knowledgeable about the waters and the marine life.
The small group size of only six people creates a more intimate and private tour. Guests can expect to see grey whales, dolphins, and sea lions playing in the water.
For a memorable and educational whale watching experience, Offshore Blue Adventures is highly recommended.
10. Imagine Sailing San Diego
If you're looking for a relaxing and informative boat tour in San Diego, Imagine Sailing San Diego is a great option.
Captain Mike is knowledgeable and welcoming, and the boat is clean and well-maintained.
The tour of the bay is enjoyable and full of interesting stories.
Sit back, relax, and let Imagine Sailing San Diego show you the beauty of the San Diego Bay.
11. Malarky Charters
Malarky Charters offers a fantastic boat tour experience. The crew is friendly, professional, and attentive to every detail.
The boat is clean and well-maintained, with all necessary Covid measures in place.
Guests can connect their phones to Bluetooth and play their own music, swim in the ocean, and see dolphins. The sunset cruise is highly recommended.
Malarky Charters is perfect for celebrating birthdays, weddings, or just relaxing and enjoying the Pacific Ocean.
12. SailingRTW
SailingRTW is an excellent boat tour agency that provides top-notch customer service. The crew is friendly and helpful, and the boat is well-maintained.
The tour is perfect for a weekend with friends, a bachelor/bachelorette party, or a fun work event.
The owner/captain and the other captains are knowledgeable and make the tour enjoyable for everyone.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great boat tour experience.
13. San Diego Sailing Experiences
San Diego Sailing Experiences offers a two-hour sail on a Catalina 400 cruising sailboat.
The skipper tailors the sail to the customer's liking, whether they want full sail racing mode or a calm sail.
The skipper has a master's sailing license and can help customers purchase their dream sailboat.
Customers have spotted dolphin pods and sea lions while sailing. The boat tour is highly recommended for a wonderful sailing trip.
14. Sterling Sails
Sterling Sails is a top-rated boat tour agency that offers sunset sails with Captain Liz.
The boat is in excellent condition, and Captain Liz is very knowledgeable about the area.
Book a last-minute sail with Captain Liz, and she'll be more than happy to accommodate you.
Sterling Sails is a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and memorable sailing experience.
