Capt. Dave's Blog

The sound of children’s laughter wafts through the open ocean air as the crest of the wave across the boat’s bow. Dolphins porpoise out of the water, and as the giant whale spouts can be seen in the distance, the sounds of children laughing, clapping, and cheering become infectious. Does this sound like an experience…

Odontocetes make up a vast group of dolphins, whales, and porpoises with one common characteristic; they all have teeth instead of baleen. Seventy-three different species of toothed whales make up this category. Grampus griseus, commonly known as Risso’s dolphins, maybe the most unique. Keep reading below to find out ten amazing facts about dolphins that are unlike…

May is the unofficial start to blue whale season, and seeing one of the world’s magnificent gentle giants roaming free in the sea may be rare in other parts of the world, but right here in Dana Point, California, we anxiously await this time of year! If you wonder, “are blue whales friendly” and are…

Ever heard of a minke whale (pronounced mink-eee)? Minkes may be one of the smallest of the great rorqual whales, but they are swift and sweet and the minke whale facts we can’t wait to share with you are sure to make you fall in love with these amazing animals. Minkes are curious creatures and can sometimes…

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,…

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…

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…

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…

The youngest generations will be the ones to live with the most devastating effects of climate change and plastic pollution. Every April 22 is Earth Day and this year’s Earth Day theme focuses on Investing in Our Planet. There are plenty of Earth Day activities we can do in our day-to-day lives that create impactful…

Everywhere around the world, children and families alike come together and celebrate the literary world of children’s books. Books of all themes and storylines help shape the young minds of millions of children throughout countries worldwide. International Children’s Book Day is a celebration dating back to 1967. This commemorative day is held annually on April…

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…