Frequently Asked Questions

We hope these Frequently Asked Questions will provide the information you are seeking. Also, see the available information on our Zerve pages or contact them at (800) 979-3370 or (212) 209-3370 int’l.

• What is the difference between Princess Monterey Whale Watching and the other companies?
• How big is the boat?
• Are the trips narrated?
• How often do you go?
• How long is the tour?
• How much does it cost?
• Is this cruise suitable for children and pregnant women?
• Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
• What time do I need to check in by?
• Where are you located?
• Where can I park?
• What should I wear?
• Can I bring my own food and beverages?
• Can I purchase a gift certificate?
• When is the best time to see whales?
• How close can we get?
• Do you guarantee sightings?
• How far do we have to travel to view whales?

Q: What is the difference between Princess Monterey Whale Watching and the other companies?

A: Princess Monterey Whale Watching has been in the cruise business for over 30 years. We are the Monterey Bay’s leading company in narrated ocean and bay tours, specializing in natural history and biology of marine wildlife, especially whales! Our whale watching trips run year-round and are fully narrated by marine biologists/naturalists, all with 10 or more years experience on the Monterey Bay. Our vessels, the 100´ Princess Monterey and the 75´ Pacific Explorer, are the two largest and most comfortable boats in the bay and operated by licensed, experienced captains.

Q: How big is the boat?

A: The 100´ “PRINCESS MONTEREY” and the 75´ “PACIFIC EXPLORER” are the 2 largest and most comfortable boats operating in Monterey. Our vessels feature easy step-on boarding, large clean restrooms, heated cabins with large windows for viewing and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating to ensure your comfort no matter what the weather. Both vessels meet the latest US Coast Guard regulations and are operated by licensed, experienced captains.

Q: Are the trips narrated?

A: Yes. All trips are fully narrated by a marine biologist/naturalist, all with 10 or more years experience on the Monterey Bay.

Q: How often do you go?

A: Our trips depart every day of the year (including Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year’s Day) at 10:00am and 1:00pm. During the busy season, we will add up to 3 additional trips as necessary to accommodate all of our guests. For the latest schedule and availability, please see our calendar online at Zerve or call them at (800) 979-3370 or (212) 209-3370 int’l.

Q: How long is the tour?

A: Whale watching cruises are approximately 2½ to 3 hours in duration. Our experience is that this length of time gives you ample opportunity to view whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Please check the latest whale watch cruises pricing and availability online at Zerve or call them at (800) 979-3370 or (212) 209-3370 int’l.

Q: Is this cruise suitable for children and pregnant women?

A: For safety reasons due to the inherent motion of the boat, children under the age of 3 and expecting mothers are not allowed on the cruise.  If you are bringing a child between the ages of 3 and 11, you can purchace a child ticket.

Q: Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?

A: Advance purchase is highly recommended, especially during summer months and for weekend trips. You may purchase tickets online at Zerve or call them at (800) 979-3370 or (212) 209-3370 int’l.

Q: What time do I need to check in by?

A: We recommend you check in 30 minutes prior to your departure time.

Q: Where are you located?

A: We are located at 96 Fisherman’s Wharf #1, Monterey, CA. Look for our red, white, and blue “Monterey Whale Watching” sign atop the bright yellow building at the end of Old Fisherman’s Wharf #1.

Q: Where can I park?

A: There is plenty of parking available in the Fisherman’s Wharf parking lot and it’s only a short walk along the water to our location.

Q: What should I wear?

A: We want you to fully enjoy your whale watching experience with us, so we offer the following suggestions on how to prepare for the trip: dress in warm layers, wear long pants, and a warm windproof jacket. Wear a wide brimmed hat/baseball cap and/or warm cap. Wear flat-soled closed toed shoes. Bring sunglasses, sun block, and chapstick. Don’t forget to bring your camera and extra film.

Q: Can I bring my own food and beverages?

A: Yes, personal food and beverages are allowed. We also have a full snack bar aboard.

Q: Can I purchase a gift certificate?

A: Yes. Call (831) 372-2203 for details.

Q: When is the best time to see whales?

A: Visit us in the winter and spring (December-April) to view gray whales as they migrate from the icy waters of the Bering and Chuckchi seas, to the majestic lagoons of Baja California, Mexico. Visit us in the summer and fall months (April-November) as Monterey Bay becomes the feeding grounds for multiple whale and dolphin species including humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, orcas (killer whales), the mighty blue whale (the largest animal to inhabit the earth), Risso’s dolphins, northern right whale dolphins, and Pacific white-sided dolphins. You’ll also have the opportunity to view California sea lions, Pacific harbor seals, southern sea otters, and seabirds such as loons, grebes, black-footed albatross, shearwaters, pelicans, cormorants, phalaropes, jaegers, gulls, terns, and alcids. And don’t forget about sharks, ocean sun fish, jellyfishes, and even the Leatherback Sea Turtle!

Q: How close can we get?

A: We follow the federal whale watching guidelines; stopping the boat at least 300 ft (91 m) away from the whales and allowing the whales to approach us. The California coast offers a unique opportunity to observe whales and other marine wildlife year round. We offer a safe, fun, and educational trip for the whole family to enjoy.

Q: Do you guarantee sightings?

A: While we can’t guarantee a whale sighting every trip, our experience has allowed us to maintain an unsurpassed record for success in this area. Every trip is different, so whether it’s your first time or you’re a veteran, come on out and see what the magical Monterey Bay will reveal today!

Q: How far do we have to travel to view whales?

A: Because the distribution of whales and dolphins in the Monterey Bay depends on their migration route or where their food is located we may have to travel between 2 and 16 miles (3 and 26 km) from the harbor.

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Purchase tickets by phone with our reservation company Zerve at (800) 979-3370 or (212) 209-3370 international

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