Princess Monterey Whale Watching Cruises

The trip was fantastic since we were able to see both humpback and gray whales up close and personal. Millie (one of the humpbacks) kept coming up to the boat and when there were other boats nearby she visited them all repeatedly. The crew was very professional and the woman (Christine, I think) was very knowledgable and kept us apprised of all the whale sightings. She was very enthusiastic and you could tell she loved the whales and what she was doing. The online ticketing was fast and efficient. I had looked at another tour but they couldn't get the etickets sent for 72 hours. I had decided to go at the last minute so Zerve worked just perfectly as I was able to print the ticket when I booked online just hours before the tour. Thank you for a great day!

I'm travelling around the US and Canada, and trying to see as much as possible for as little as possible. The $40 ticket made me equivocate, not sure if it would be worth it. I figured, however, it might be worth it just for the chance to see some of these magnificent creatures I've only read about and seen on TV. Apparently, the marine life has been strangely active lately, even for animals out of season. We saw a number of porpoises, a Minke Whale, about half a dozen Humpback Whales (several of whom felt the need to do the launching out of the water thing, just like on a documentary), and a few Blue Whales! Bigger than the friggin' boats around them, and only a chunk of them was actually visible. Totally worth the money. Staff was very informed, wiling to take time to talk about the animals in detail, other tourists on the boat were extremely friendly and from all over. Free appetizer coupons to restaurants on the same wharf were also provided, and just a short drive from Steinbeck's Cannery Row. If you're in Monterey, it would be a shame not to go.

If you like whales go on this trip, but do it soon as the whales follow the Krill and who knows how long they will stay. A very enjoyable time on the waters of Monterey Bay and beyond. We enjoyed a lovely lunch at Isabella's on the wharf after the whale cruise.

The boat ride is a view from the inner monterey bay to about 2 miles out. Try to watch weather forcasts and news for best conditions. Always take what is recommended for the trip. Extra warm clothing, rain jackets, gloves, hats, cameras and sunscreen. Binoculars are important because of the distance you can start seeing whales. the whales and dolfin are not coming up to the boat to say hi. If you need all the equipment is available for a price at the sign in shop, the money is donated, My wife and I have taken the trip twice and I would like to go again or get a job on the boat. Everyone on the boat was friendly and courtious. The children on the boat were frustrated because they did not have binoculars.

We had an awesome time on the Whale Watching tour. According to our guide who is a Marine Biologist of 15 + years, we had one of the most amazing days she has ever seen. There were Whales everywhere and although we did not see the Orca, Killer whales.....we did see an extremely rare sighting of a group of Blue Whales together. It was chilly so bring warm clothes and pack snacks and coffee if you want it. Definitely bring a camera and binoculars. We had a GREAT time.

Understanding that the reason for such spectacular whale watching was the El Nino, it was a fantastic experience. Over 30 whales, blue and humpback! The guide was fabulous with the amount of knowledge of sea life including birds. Definitely would recommend the tour to friends, and already have. Thanks!

Superb! Boat was comfortable with plenty of space (restrooms clean and snacks available). Crew was omnipresent, friendly and knowledgable. Saw many whales of several varieties and at close proximity. Marine biologist narration really added to the experience. We took anti-motion sickness pills prior to event and felt great the entire time! Recommend doing this even if you aren't nornally prone to motion sickness. Some on the tour didn't do this and were queasy when the seas became a bit choppy. Whale sightings made up for all of that. They were beautiful!

The Marine Biologist who led the watch was excellent! Great enthusiasm. Got to see a lot of whales, captain did a nice job pausing the boat when sightings were made and did a great job finding the whales. I did think we would get closer to the wildlife. I don't think we ever got closer than 200-250 feet from the whales. We had fun and would recommend it to others.

I think its great but unfortunately the sea sickness dampened our ability to enjoy the experience. That is obviously not your fault. Wish there could have been a way to combat this but unfortunately that didn't work out for us. Whales were out for sure and we managed to see them albeit it briefly and with dampened spirits. Wish there was a tired and true way to combat sea sickness.. there doesn't seem to be else I'm sure all whale watch and fishing trips would provide it! Friendly and knowledgeable staff was there and we appreciated there efforts.

Only 40 minutes into the ride out of the bay, we came across two humpback whales. That alone would have been a successful trip but ordinary success was not the outcome. We moved along with the whales for some time until the captain was notified by other boats in the area that there were larger groups of whales just a little ways away, so off we went followed by a few dolphins in our wake. By the time we reached the said location, you could look out from any point of the boat and whales would entertain you. Here it comes...the once in a lifetime moment. After several hours of enjoying the ocean with the whales, it was time to get back. The captain started to move ahead, if by chance you were at the back of the boat and looking out, you may have seen a humpback whale breach the water, turn and splash back into the ocean as if to say goodbye. Magnificent!!! I understand that each trip may not bring the same experience and there is no guarantee to see wildlife each trip but at least take a chance to have a once in a lifetime experience as I did.